The kimono, much more than a simple garment, embodies a centuries-old tradition and a way of life. Whether on the tatami mats or for special occasions, it deserves exemplary care. But how do you wash a kimono without damaging it, causing it to shrink, or fading its colors? If you're confused between hand washing, machine washing, temperatures, and products, this guide is for you. Discover all the essential steps to preserve the quality and elegance of your kimono.
Summary
- Why Proper Kimono Care is Essential
- The different types of kimonos and their specific care requirements
- Before washing: essential preparations
- How to machine wash a kimono?
- How to wash a kimono by hand?
- Drying the kimono: a crucial step
- Common Mistakes to Avoid When Washing Kimono
- Regular maintenance: tips to extend the life of your kimono
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Conclusion: Keeping your kimono clean also means respecting your martial art.
Why Proper Kimono Care is Essential
The kimono is unlike any other garment. It symbolizes commitment, discipline, and respect—whether in martial arts or Japanese traditions. Proper care is therefore essential to preserving the quality of your kimono and the image it conveys. This regular care guarantees impeccable hygiene, a longer lifespan, and a consistently impeccable appearance.
Risks associated with poor washing
Careless washing can wreak havoc: fabric shrinkage, color fading, seams weakening, and even the appearance of lingering odors. Worse still, some natural materials like heavy cotton or silk can become stiff, rough, or even unusable. Avoid hot water or harsh detergents if you value your kimono.
The lifespan of a well-maintained kimono
With proper care, a kimono can remain in excellent condition for years. Gentle washing, careful drying, and regular attention to small details (seams, clean lapels, etc.) guarantee longevity and comfort. And beyond the material aspect, taking care of your kimono also means honoring the tradition it embodies.
The different types of kimonos and their specific care requirements
Before you think about washing, you need to identify what type of kimono you have. Each model has its own unique requirements. Whether you practice judo , karate, or BJJ, or wear a traditional Japanese kimono, cleaning techniques vary.
Judo kimono
Thick and durable, this kimono is designed to withstand violent grabs and pulls. It is generally made of stiff cotton, sometimes reinforced. To wash it without damaging it, use a cold cycle or a maximum of 30°C. Avoid tumble drying, which can cause sudden shrinkage. Instead, dry naturally flat or on a sturdy hanger.
Karate Kimono
Lighter than judo clothing, karate gi are soft and breathable. They can withstand frequent washing, but not at high temperatures. A 30°C machine wash with a bleach-free detergent is ideal. Hang them up immediately after washing to avoid stubborn wrinkles.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) Kimono
BJJ gi are often colored, making them difficult to care for. Wash them separately, in cold water only, to prevent color bleeding. Use a mild detergent and avoid tumble drying. A laundry bag is recommended to preserve the seams.
Traditional Japanese kimono
Made of silk or very fine cotton, these kimonos are often decorated and delicate. They should be hand washed in cold water with a special detergent for delicates. Do not rub: gently squeeze the fabric between your hands or between two towels to remove the water. Dry flat in the shade, avoiding direct sunlight.
Before washing: essential preparations
A good wash begins long before your kimono even enters the washing machine or tub. Here are the essential steps to follow to avoid fatal mistakes.
Read the care label
It seems obvious, but many people ignore it. The label informs you about maximum temperatures, prohibited products, and drying precautions. Each manufacturer may have specific recommendations, and it's important to follow them exactly.
Sort by color and material
Never wash a white kimono with colored clothing. Even light colors can permanently stain natural fibers. Also, separate lightweight kimonos from heavy fabrics to avoid abrasion and friction.
Check for stains and seams
Before washing, inspect each part of the kimono. Treat any visible stains with a suitable mild product. Check the seams and reinforcements: if any of them are weakened, it is best to repair them before starting the wash to prevent further deterioration.
How to machine wash a kimono?
Many practitioners choose machine washing to save time. However, this method requires strict precautions to avoid damaging the fabric or cut of the kimono. Here's how to machine wash a kimono without risking damage.
Recommended program, temperature and detergent
Choose a delicate or soft cotton cycle . The ideal temperature is 20 to 30°C maximum. Hotter water could shrink the fibers, especially for cotton or blended kimonos. Use a detergent without bleaching agents or optical brighteners, which can attack the fibers or fade the colors. Also avoid fabric softeners, which are often too aggressive for technical kimonos.
Tips to avoid shrinkage
- Use a laundry bag or a closed pillowcase to protect the kimono.
- Do not overload the machine to limit excessive friction.
- Select the lowest possible spin speed (600 to 800 rpm max).
Cold wash vs hot wash
Cold washing (20-25°C) is ideal for preserving the colors , shape and seams of the kimono. Only some very dirty models, especially after intense training, can tolerate washing at 30°C, but never higher. Hot washing should be avoided, as it causes irreversible shrinkage and alters the structure of the fabric.
How to wash a kimono by hand?
Hand washing is recommended for traditional kimonos, delicate designs, or to prevent premature wear. This method allows for better control over water temperature and fabric handling. Here's the step-by-step method.
Gentle step-by-step method
- Fill a basin or bathtub with cold or lukewarm (never hot) water.
- Add a mild detergent suitable for delicate laundry.
- Immerse the kimono, pressing it gently to soak the fabric well.
- Let it soak for 10 to 15 minutes, then lightly rub the dirty areas by hand.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water until the foam has completely disappeared.
- Squeeze gently without twisting: simply squeeze between your hands or with a towel.
Products to use or avoid
Choose natural or specially formulated detergents for delicate laundry. Never use bleach, strong stain removers, or products containing alcohol. These substances can weaken the fibers and alter the colors, especially for dyed or embroidered kimonos.
Drying the kimono: a crucial step
Drying is just as important as washing. Improper drying can cause your kimono to shrink, warp, or stiffen. Here are some best practices to follow.
Air drying vs. tumble drying
Tumble drying is strongly discouraged. High heat and mechanical drumming can shrink fibers and damage seams. Air dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight to avoid fading. Hang the kimono on a wide hanger or lay it flat on a clean towel.
Tips for preserving shape and color
- Shake the kimono lightly after wringing to relax the fibers.
- Do not hang it by the shoulders if it is wet: the fabric could lose its shape.
- Avoid clothespins on visible areas: they leave permanent marks.
- Turn the kimono inside out before drying to protect the patterns or embroidery.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Washing Kimono
Even with good intentions, some mistakes are common and can cause irreversible damage to your kimono. Here are the main ones to avoid at all costs.
- Use hot water: This shrinks natural fibers, especially thick cotton.
- Wash with other clothes: zippers, Velcro or colors can damage or stain the kimono.
- Choose an intensive program: too much spin or an aggressive cycle will deform the fabric.
- Forgetting to treat stains before washing: they risk becoming permanently ingrained.
- Using a tumble dryer: the most common mistake... and the most fatal for kimonos.
- Leaving the kimono damp for too long: this promotes mold and bad odors.
Regular maintenance: tips to extend the life of your kimono
Proper maintenance isn't just about washing. It's also important to adopt good habits after each use and between washes to preserve the quality of your kimono over the long term.
Ideal washing frequency
Wash your kimono after each intense session or whenever it becomes stained or soaked with perspiration. For lighter practices, washing it every 2 to 3 uses may be sufficient, provided you air it well in between.
Using a washing bag
Putting the kimono in a washing bag helps reduce friction with the drum and other textiles. This extends the life of the seams and finishes, especially on embroidered or reinforced models.
Proper storage
Once clean and dry, carefully fold the kimono or hang it on a wide hanger. Avoid humid spaces. If storing for a long time, place a moisture-proof or moth-proof bag in the closet to protect the fabric.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you wash a white kimono with other colored kimonos?
No. Colored kimonos, especially BJJ ones, can bleed. Always wash whites separately to avoid color transfer.
Is it possible to disinfect a kimono without damaging it?
Yes, by adding a bleach-free fabric disinfectant to the wash, or by lightly steaming after drying (if the fabric allows it).
How to get rid of a persistent odor?
Soak the kimono for one hour in cold water with a tablespoon of baking soda before washing. This neutralizes stubborn odors without damaging the fibers.
Can you iron a kimono?
Yes, but at a low temperature. Place a fabric between the iron and the kimono, especially if it contains printed or embroidered designs.
Can a shrunken kimono be recovered?
Unfortunately, no. Once the fabric has shrunk from heat, it is very difficult to return it to its original size. Hence the importance of always washing cold and air drying.
Should I wash a new kimono before use?
Yes. This removes manufacturing residue and reduces the risk of color transfer or skin irritation during the first few uses.
Conclusion: Keeping your kimono clean also means respecting your martial art.
Maintaining a kimono is a mark of respect for your discipline, your partners, and yourself. It's not just a technical gesture: it's a demonstration of commitment and rigor. By following the advice in this guide, you now know how to wash a kimono effectively, without damaging it, while extending its lifespan and comfort. Practice with pride, in a kimono that's always clean and well-maintained.
