■ Basic rules for caring for your armor

Kendo armor is designed so that it cannot be washed completely, so simple daily care is important.

● Basic care after use: Carefully wipe away sweat with a soft towel. Dry in the shade in a well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight (to prevent deterioration and discoloration of the leather).

● Storage tips: Avoid humid places. Use a dehumidifier when storing in a closet. Do not leave the equipment in the protective gear bag, but air it out regularly.

● Measures against odors and germs: Use a deodorizing and disinfecting spray specifically for kendo equipment. If the odor cannot be removed, use a professional cleaning service.

■ How to care for your mask

The mask has many parts that come into direct contact with the face, and is a protective gear that easily absorbs sweat. Keeping it clean will lead to comfortable training.

● Care instructions

1. After practice, wipe the inside of the inner ring and the mask with a tenugui or dry towel.
   
   
2. Dry in a well-ventilated area (avoid direct sunlight)
   
   
3. On days when you sweat a lot, hang the mask with the metal facing up to allow for good ventilation and make it dry quickly.
   
   

Tips for long-lasting use: Regularly disinfect with protective gear spray. If the inner ring becomes hard, replace or clean it promptly.

■ How to care for your hand guard

The kote is the piece of armor that receives the most strikes and is therefore the most susceptible to damage.
The lifespan of a product will vary greatly depending on whether or not it is maintained.

● Care instructions

1. After use, thoroughly wipe off any sweat from the inside.
   
   
2. Gently stretch the leather inside the hand to shape it
   
   
3. Gently massage the wrist area to maintain flexibility
   
   
4. Dry in the shade, just like the surface.

● A positive idea: Do not use wet gloves, but prepare spare gloves and use them alternately. Some gloves made of jersey or synthetic leather can be washed in a laundry net.

■ How to care for the body

The torso is relatively inconspicuous when it comes to dirt, but it actually absorbs a lot of sweat.
Regular maintenance is important to keep it looking clean.

● Care instructions

1. Thoroughly wipe the underside of the chest and the torso base.
   
   
2. Don't forget to clean the sweat-absorbing waist cord.
   
   
3. Wipe the waist cord with a wrung-out towel to stretch it out and keep it soft.

● Precautions for storage ・Bamboo barrels are easily affected by humidity and dryness ・Store in a well-ventilated place away from direct sunlight

■ Five points to make your protective gear last longer

■ Summary

Caring for your armor is not just about keeping it clean, it also contributes to your mental preparation as a swordsman.
By taking good care of your armor after each practice, you can make it last longer and prevent it from smelling or deteriorating.

By accumulating small daily habits, you will be able to continue living a comfortable kendo life.
By practicing proper care and storage, you can keep your equipment in good condition so that you can always practice comfortably.