If you’re like me, you want your punching bag to last as long as possible. Not only do I want to save money on replacing it, but I also want to continue working out without having to make time for trips to the gym. The key to making this happen is to maintain your heavy punching bag with regular cleaning and maintenance. If you have never cleaned your bag, you can follow the steps below to get off on the right foot.
Why is heavy bag maintenance necessary?
Boxing bags are breeding grounds for bacteria. When you train, saliva and sweat carry moisture. That’s why bags and boxing gloves are sometimes smelly. If you have ever been to a boxing gym, you know what I’m talking about.
Regularly maintaining a heavy bag also helps to keep its shape, avoid tears and cracks. And with that, it provides a much better workout experience.
Why shouldn’t you keep your bag outdoor?
Heavy punching bags are usually filled with materials that suck the moisture, such as fabric, foam, sand, etc. If the bag is outdoor, the filling behaves like a sponge making the bag firm, unhealthy and uneven. The wet filling material also destroys the shell and stitching.
The worst thing that you can do to a genuine leather bag is to keep it outdoors. Leather is subject to excessive drying from sunlight, resulting in cracking or stiffening, while excessive humidity promotes bacterial and mold growth. Leather bags are costly, so don’t risk your hard-earned money.
In conclusion, we should keep heavy bags inside to keep them away from weather elements. If it isn’t possible, then use water and a sun-resistant sack to cover the bag entirely.
How to clean a punching bag
If the bag’s shell is synthetic leather, such as vinyl, the only thing you need to do is to wipe the bag after your training. Those materials don’t suck the moisture and durable. Every two weeks, you should wipe it with a damp cloth to remove smell and bacteria.
The leather exterior requires more careful maintenance. After workouts, use a dry cloth on the shell to get rid of dampness. Once, a month use a leather conditioner that will keep the leather in good condition. Using conditioners prevents the leather from becoming hard and cracking as well as adding a layer of protection.
How to fill heavy punching bags the right way
Make sure the bag is at least half your weight for enough resistance and proper swinging. The density depends on your personal choice. But, medium dense bags are the safest to use for sure.
What can you do if the heavy bag is settled at the bottom?
With time, the filling is willing to sink to the bottom of the bag. This way, the bottom is really hard, but the top is too soft. With this unevenness, using the bag becomes uncomfortable and potentially dangerous for your hands.
The problem can be resolved by rearranging the fillings periodically. Also, add or remove filling if it’s required.
How I fill my bags?
I use foam and cloth; the foam ensures flexibility and stops the heavier materials from sinking. The clothes add firmness and weight. Read more about my filling technique that stops sinking here and the various punching bag filling materials here.
To sum up
If you want your bag to stay in good shape, keep it clean. Keeping your gadgets clean is as easy as wiping them with a damp cloth after every use. By doing this, the exterior will be protected from dirt buildup and water damage. It’s as simple as that.