No More Stinky Gym Clothes: The Five Best Tips for Properly Cleaning Your Activewear

At the heart of every fitness routine lies the sweat-drenched, bacteria-infested workout clothes that come with it. As we work hard to achieve our fitness goals, it’s easy to overlook the importance of properly cleaning our activewear.

But if left unattended, these sweat-soaked garments can quickly become breeding grounds for bacteria and odors, not to mention potential health hazards.

In this article, we share the five best tips for properly cleaning your activewear and ensuring your workout clothes stay fresh, clean, and hygienic.

Tip #1: Sort Your Laundry

First things first: when it comes to cleaning your activewear, it’s essential to sort your laundry correctly. Sorting your laundry by color and fabric type is crucial for maintaining the quality and longevity of your clothes.

Most activewear is made from synthetic materials that require gentle washing and drying methods. Mixing your activewear with heavier, cotton-based clothes can cause friction and damage the synthetic fibers, resulting in pilling and stretching.

To prevent this, sort your activewear by color and fabric type, and wash them separately from your other laundry.

Tip #2: Use the Right Detergent

Choosing the right detergent is essential for keeping your activewear clean and fresh. Traditional laundry detergents contain harsh chemicals that can damage the synthetic fibers in your workout clothes, causing them to lose their shape and elasticity.

Instead, opt for a detergent that’s specifically designed for activewear, such as Sport Suds, WIN Sports Detergent, or HEX Performance.

These detergents are specially formulated to remove sweat, bacteria, and odors without damaging the fabric or compromising the garment’s performance.

Tip #3: Wash in Cold Water

When it comes to washing your activewear, cold water is your best friend. High temperatures can damage the synthetic fibers in your workout clothes, causing them to lose their elasticity and shape.

Washing your activewear in cold water not only helps preserve the fabric’s quality but also saves energy and money on your utility bill. If your activewear is particularly soiled or stained, pre-treat it with a stain remover before washing.

Tip #4: Avoid Fabric Softener and Dryer Sheets

Fabric softeners and dryer sheets may make your clothes feel softer and smell nice, but they’re not suitable for activewear. Fabric softeners leave a residue on the fabric, which can clog the synthetic fibers, reducing their moisture-wicking ability.

Dryer sheets, on the other hand, contain chemicals that can damage the fabric and decrease its performance. Instead of using fabric softener or dryer sheets, add a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle to help remove any lingering odors and bacteria.

Tip #5: Air Dry Your Activewear

The best way to dry your activewear is by air drying. The high heat from the dryer can damage the synthetic fibers, causing them to lose their shape and elasticity.

Hang your workout clothes on a drying rack or clothesline, making sure to shape them as they dry to prevent any stretching or distortion. If you must use a dryer, set it on the lowest heat setting and remove the clothes promptly when they’re dry.

Takeaway

In conclusion, proper cleaning and maintenance of your activewear are crucial for maintaining its quality, performance, and hygiene. By following these five tips, you can keep your workout clothes fresh, clean, and odor-free, ensuring a comfortable and hygienic workout experience every time.