How To Wash Workout Clothes Complete Guide

Exercise is key to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, but it comes with its own set of challenges. One such issue is keeping your workout clothes fresh and clean. Unlike regular clothes, workout gear is typically designed to absorb sweat and can often develop unpleasant odors if not cleaned properly. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to wash workout clothes that smell to ensure they remain hygienic and in good condition for a long time.

A Complete Guide on How to Wash Workout Clothes

Understanding the Fabric

Your workout gear is not just any clothing; it’s specially designed to accommodate the rigors of your physical activities. The materials used in these clothes, such as polyester and spandex, wick away sweat, providing you comfort during your workouts. However, these fabrics can be sensitive, and inappropriate washing techniques can damage their functionality.

Before You Wash

Air Them Out: After a workout, allow your clothes to air out rather than tossing them directly into a laundry hamper. This step prevents the growth of bacteria and mold, reducing the lingering smell.

Pre-Treat Stains: If your workout clothes have visible stains, pre-treat them before washing. Apply a stain remover or a mix of baking soda and water to the stained area and let it sit for a few minutes.

Washing Techniques

Turn Them Inside Out: This is where the real magic happens. When you work out, the sweat, oils, and dead skin cells get trapped in the interior of your clothes. Therefore, turning them inside out before washing allows direct contact between the detergent and the dirt.

Use the Right Detergent: Not all detergents are created equal, especially when it comes to washing workout clothes. Choose a detergent designed for activewear or one that’s marked as ‘for sensitive skin.’ These detergents typically don’t contain additives like fabric softeners or fragrances, which can harm the performance fabrics of your gear.

Cold Wash: Always opt for a cold wash cycle when washing your workout clothes. Hot water can break down the fabrics and affect their ability to wick away moisture.

Avoid Using Fabric Softener: Fabric softeners can leave a coating on the clothes that can hinder their ability to wick sweat effectively.

Separate Loads: To prevent abrasion and damage, wash your workout clothes separately from heavy items like jeans and towels.

Drying Techniques wash workout clothes

Air-Dry: Air-drying is the most effective and gentle method to dry your workout clothes. The high heat from dryers can break down the elasticity of your gear and reduce its lifespan.

Avoid Direct Sunlight: If possible, avoid drying your workout clothes in direct sunlight as UV rays can cause some fabrics to smell fade when you wash them.

Flatten to Dry: For clothes that stretch, like sports bras or leggings, reshape them while they’re damp and lay flat to dry. This helps maintain their shape.

Maintenance Tips

Proper maintenance of your workout clothes can go a long way in keeping them clean and durable.

Rotate Your Workout Gear: Using the same pair of workout clothes repeatedly can cause them to wear out faster. Try rotating between a few different outfits to give each one a break.

Mind Your Deodorant: Deodorants can cause yellowish stains on your clothes. Allow your deodorant to dry before putting on your workout gear to prevent this.

Consider Odor-Eliminating Sprays: If you’re dealing with persistent odors, consider using an odor-eliminating spray. These sprays can often help tackle stubborn smells workout clothes that regular washing may not remove.

Workout clothes are your faithful companions in the pursuit of fitness. They keep you comfortable and help you perform at your best. Hence, they deserve some special care. By following these tips, you can ensure your workout clothes remain fresh, clean, and in great shape, ready to support you in your next sweat session.