why

That Smell Isn't Just Sweat. It's a Health Risk.

Opening a gear bag shouldn’t be a hazardous experience. At OdorOFF Sports, we believe understanding the why is just as important as the how. Your athlete’s gear is a breeding ground for dangerous pathogens that can lead to serious infections and sideline players. Here’s why professional sanitization is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity.

What Causes That Disgusting Odor?

The unpleasant smell coming from your athlete’s bag isn’t just sweat—it’s the evidence of a bacterial party.

As bacteria feed on sweat and skin cells, they release waste products—essentially “microbe manure.” This waste is the source of the deeply ingrained, unbearable odor in pads, helmets, and gloves.

But the odor is just the warning sign. The real danger is what you can’t smell.

The Hidden Health Risks in Unsanitized Gear

Simply washing gear at home doesn’t reach deep into padded equipment, and harsh chemicals can leave irritating residues on skin. This allows dangerous microorganisms to thrive, including:

Bacteria

Staph, MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus), Strep, E. coli, C. diff

Viruses

Influenza, Herpes Gladiatorum (Mat Herpes)

Fungi

Ringworm, Athlete’s Foot

When athletes have cuts, abrasions, or even just open pores, these microbes can enter the body and cause severe infections that sometimes require hospitalization.