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How to Care for and Clean Your Boxing Mouth Guard?
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How to Care for and Clean Your Boxing Mouth Guard?

Let’s be honest: your boxing mouth guard has seen some things. It’s been through blood, sweat, tears—and that time you dropped it on the gym floor (don’t lie). But while it might be tough enough to take a punch, your mouth guard won’t survive long if you’re not giving it the TLC it deserves.

In this guide, we’re covering everything fighters need to know about how to clean a boxing mouth guard, keep it bacteria-free, and prevent it from turning into a moldy, stinky mess.


Why You Need to Clean Your Mouth Guard After Every Session

You wouldn’t wear the same hand wraps for weeks without washing them, right? (Please say no.)

Yet a lot of fighters toss their mouth guard into their gym bag after training and don’t give it a second thought. Big mistake.

Here’s what happens when you don’t clean your mouth guard:

  • Bacteria builds up fast — including the kind that causes staph infections or gum disease

  • Bad breath gets worse

  • Your gear wears out faster

  • Mold can form

Basically, if your mouth guard smells like an abandoned locker room, it’s time to step up your hygiene game.

(In this Photo: Fairtex MG3 Mouthguard)

 

Step-by-Step: How to Clean Your Boxing Mouth Guard

Let’s break this down into your new post-training ritual. It takes less than five minutes, and your gums will thank you.

Step 1: Rinse It Right Away
As soon as you take your mouth guard out (not during the round, champ), rinse it thoroughly under cold or lukewarm water. This removes excess saliva and slows bacterial growth.

Pro tip: Don’t use hot water. It can warp the shape of your mouth guard.

Step 2: Use a Toothbrush and Gentle Soap
Grab a toothbrush (not your regular one—use a separate brush just for your guard). Apply a tiny bit of mild soap or toothpaste and gently scrub all surfaces.

This knocks out bacteria, funk, and any protein buildup from your saliva.

Step 3: Rinse Again
Soap residue equals bad taste. Rinse the mouth guard again thoroughly to remove any leftover cleaning product.

Step 4: Let It Dry Completely
Don’t just toss it in your bag dripping wet.

Pat it dry with a clean towel and let it air dry fully before storing. Moisture is bacteria’s best friend. A dry guard is a clean guard.

 

Deep Cleaning: Once a Week

You’re a serious fighter—you train multiple times a week. So give your mouth guard a deep clean every 5–7 days.

Here are two fighter-approved deep cleaning options:

Option 1: Mouthwash Soak

  1. Mix a cup of water with a capful of mouthwash

  2. Soak the guard for 10–15 minutes

  3. Rinse thoroughly and let it dry

Fresh smell, bacteria-killing, and easy to do between sessions.

Option 2: Denture Cleaning Tablets
Yes, really. Those fizzy tablets work wonders.

  1. Drop one in a glass of water with your guard

  2. Let it fizz for 15–20 minutes

  3. Rinse and dry completely

It’s oddly satisfying to watch—and it works like a charm.

Things You Should Never Do to Your Mouth Guard

Let’s keep your gear in fighting shape. Avoid these rookie mistakes:

  • Don’t leave it in your gym bag

  • Don’t chew on it

  • Don’t share it

  • Don’t use boiling water to clean it

  • Don’t store it while it’s still wet

Treat it like your gloves or wraps: with care and respect. You wouldn’t spar with cracked gloves, right?

 

Storage Tips: Where Should You Keep It?

If you’re storing your mouth guard in a torn ziplock bag from 2020, we’ve got a better way.

The best mouth guard storage options:

  • A vented case (lets air in, keeps bacteria out)

  • A hard-shell case if you’re traveling or commuting

  • A clean and dry environment — not your sweaty wrap pouch

Wash your case weekly. Let your guard dry before sealing it in.


When to Replace Your Boxing Mouth Guard

Even the best cared-for gear has an expiration date.

You should replace your mouth guard:

  • Every six months, or sooner if you train hard

  • If it’s warped, cracked, or has tears

  • If it no longer fits snugly

  • After a particularly nasty cold, flu, or oral infection

Basically, if it’s falling apart or smells like a swamp even after a deep clean, it’s time to upgrade.

Need a new one? Shop our boxing mouth guards — they’re durable, comfortable, and ready for war.


Bonus Tips for Fighters Who Want to Go the Extra Round

  • Use antibacterial sprays made for sports gear

  • Label your case (especially in gym settings)

  • Keep two mouth guards in rotation — one for sparring, one for bag work or drills

  • Got braces or dental work? Use a custom-fit guard to avoid injury





Quick FAQ

Q: Can I use toothpaste to clean my mouth guard?
A: Yes, but use a non-abrasive toothpaste. Whitening or gritty pastes can damage the material.

Q: What if I dropped my mouth guard on the gym floor?
A: Rinse immediately, then soak in mouthwash or use a cleaning tablet. Don’t just “dust it off” and keep going. Bacteria live on those mats.

Q: Can I boil my mouth guard to clean it?
A: No. Boiling can warp the shape, making it useless and uncomfortable. Stick with cold rinses and mild cleaning agents.

 

Final Thoughts: Respect the Guard, Protect the Smile

Your mouth guard is one of the most important pieces of gear you own. It’s small, sure—but it protects your smile, your jaw, and your future.

Clean it like a champ:

  • Rinse it after every use

  • Scrub it gently

  • Let it dry fully

  • Deep clean it weekly

  • Store it right

Want to avoid getting caught in the funk? Then don’t treat your mouth guard like an afterthought. Treat it like a training partner — one that saves your teeth every single session.

Ready to Upgrade Your Gear?

If your mouth guard’s on its last leg—or you’re still using one that’s seen more fights than your coach—it’s time for a serious upgrade.

Check out our latest mouth guards built for comfort, performance, and serious sparring.
Shop Boxing Mouth Guards

 

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