How To Clean Activewear?

  • Riya Yadav
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How To Clean Activewear?
How To Clean Activewear?

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 Whether you’re a seasoned gym-goer, a yoga enthusiast, or a weekend runner, you know how crucial activewear is to your performance and comfort. But keeping those stretchy, sweat-wicking garments clean can be tricky. From stubborn odors to loss of elasticity, improper care can ruin your favorite pieces. So, how to clean activewear the right way?

This comprehensive guide will take you through everything you need to know about cleaning, drying, and preserving your workout clothes, from the first rinse to long-term storage.

Why Activewear Needs Special Care?

Activewear is made from performance fabrics like polyester, nylon, elastane (Spandex), and technical blends that are designed to wick sweat, stretch with your movements, and dry quickly. However, these benefits also make them prone to:

  • Trapping odors: Sweat and bacteria cling to synthetic fibers.

  • Retaining detergent: Residue can build up, making the fabric less breathable.

  • Losing elasticity: Harsh detergents and heat can damage stretch fibers.

  • Fading or pilling: Friction and improper washing cause wear and tear.

Caring for your activewear properly means extending its lifespan, keeping it odor-free, and maintaining performance.

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Step-By-Step: How to Wash Activewear?

How to Wash Activewear
How to Wash Activewear?

1. Read the Care Label

Every item has a tag with washing instructions. Follow them carefully — some activewear might require cold water only or hand washing. If it says “do not tumble dry,” trust it.

2. Turn Clothes Inside Out

Turning your workout clothes inside out protects the outer fabric and allows sweat, oils, and bacteria on the inside to be cleaned more effectively.

3. Pre-Treat Odors and Stains

If your gear smells particularly funky or has visible sweat marks:

  • Soak in vinegar: Mix one part white vinegar with four parts cold water. Soak for 15–30 minutes before washing.

  • Use baking soda: Sprinkle a bit on extra-sweaty areas and let sit for 10 minutes.

  • Apply stain remover: Spot-treat stubborn stains or deodorant marks before tossing them in the wash.

4. Choose the Right Detergent

Skip the heavy-duty stuff. Use:

  • A mild detergent: Harsh formulas break down technical fabrics.

  • A sports detergent: Specifically formulated to break down sweat, oils, and bacteria without harming the fibers.

  • Avoid fabric softeners: They leave a coating that clogs the fabric’s pores, reducing breathability and moisture-wicking.

5. Cold Water Only

Always wash activewear in cold water. Heat can damage the elasticity and structure of the fabric. Cold water is also better at removing body oils.

6. Use a Gentle Cycle

A gentle or delicate cycle prevents excessive agitation, which can cause pilling or stretching. It also protects mesh panels, zippers, and reflective accents.

7. Don’t Overload the Washer

Give your gear space to move around. Stuffing the washer can trap detergent and reduce cleaning efficiency.



Drying Activewear: What You Need to Know

1. Air Dry Whenever Possible

Heat breaks down elasticity. Lay items flat or hang them in a well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight, which can fade colors.

2. Use the Dryer Only If Necessary

If you must tumble dry:

  • Use the lowest heat setting.

  • Remove the items promptly to avoid wrinkling.

  • Avoid overdrying, which can lead to shrinkage and reduced elasticity.

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Extra Tips to Keep Activewear Fresh

Extra Tips to Keep Activewear Fresh
Extra Tips to Keep Activewear Fresh

1. Wash Immediately or Let It Breathe

Don’t let sweaty clothes sit in your gym bag. If you can’t wash them right away:

  • Hang them up to dry first.

  • Use a mesh laundry bag to store them temporarily.

  • Spray with a fabric refresher or vinegar-water mix to neutralize odors.

2. Use a Mesh Laundry Bag

Protect bras, leggings, and delicate pieces by washing them in a mesh bag. It reduces friction and tangling.

3. Limit How Often You Wash

Believe it or not, over-washing can reduce lifespan. If you wore a piece for a light activity (like stretching or yoga), consider airing it out instead of washing it right away.

4. Avoid the Iron

Most activewear doesn’t need ironing. The heat can damage the technical fibers and ruin logos or printed designs.

 

How to Store Activewear Properly?

Don’t fold damp clothes: Always dry completely before storing.
Store in a cool, dry place: Avoid moisture buildup that causes mold or mildew.
Separate from heavy garments: Keep leggings, bras, and tops in their own drawer or section to avoid unnecessary pressure or stretching.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Let’s recap some of the biggest no-no’s when it comes to cleaning activewear:

  • Using fabric softeners

  • Washing in hot water

  • Drying on high heat

  • Letting sweaty clothes sit too long

  • Using too much detergent

  • Overwashing lightly used gear

  • Ignoring the care label

 

Eco-Friendly Tips for Cleaning Activewear

  • Use eco-detergents: Gentle on clothes and the planet.

  • Wash full loads responsibly: Don’t waste water with small batches.

  • Skip the dryer: Air drying saves energy.

  • Avoid microfiber shedding: Use a Guppyfriend bag to catch microplastics.

When to Retire Your Activewear?

  • Even the best gear has a shelf life. Signs it’s time to let go:

    • The fabric is stretched out and no longer compressive.

    • Persistent odors that won’t wash out.

    • Pilling, fraying, or thinning fabric.

    Loss of sweat-wicking ability.

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Conclusion

Taking care of your activewear doesn’t have to be a chore. With a few simple adjustments to your laundry routine, you can keep your workout clothes smelling fresh, looking new, and performing at their best.

So next time you peel off that sweat-soaked shirt or slide out of your leggings post-run, don’t just toss them in with the towels. Wash them with the above mentioned tips and tricks to keep them looking fresh and clean. 

FAQs On How To Wash Activewears

Yes, adding half a cup of white vinegar to your rinse cycle can help neutralize odors and soften fabrics naturally.

This usually means bacteria and oils weren’t fully removed. Try a pre-soak in vinegar, switch to a sports detergent, and avoid overloading your machine.

Look for enzyme-based, fragrance-free detergents designed for sports or performance fabrics. Brands like HEX, Rockin’ Green, and WIN are popular choices.

This usually means bacteria and oils weren’t fully removed. Try a pre-soak in vinegar, switch to a sports detergent, and avoid overloading your machine.

It’s better to wash activewear separately. Heavy items like jeans and towels can damage delicate fibers and trap odors.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author. They do not necessarily purport to reflect the values or views of Tumbledry.

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