Workout clothes are built differently. They’re designed to stretch, wick sweat, and keep you comfortable during intense movement. But those same features make them tricky to wash. Do it wrong, and you’ll end up with stretched-out leggings, smelly tops, or fading fabrics. If you’d rather let experts handle it, London laundry services are always an option, but here’s how to take care of activewear at home the right way.
The Biggest Mistake: Heat
Heat is the enemy of workout gear. Hot water and high dryer temperatures break down the elastic fibers that give leggings their stretch and tops their fit. Always wash activewear in cold water and let it air-dry. If you must use a dryer, stick to the lowest setting.
Turn Clothes Inside Out
Sweat, oils, and bacteria build up on the inside of workout clothes, not the outside. Washing them inside out ensures the dirtiest part of the fabric gets cleaned properly. It also helps protect logos and designs from fading.
Skip the Fabric Softener
Fabric softener leaves a coating that clogs the moisture-wicking fibers in workout clothes. Instead of keeping fabrics fresh, it traps odors. Avoid softeners completely for gym gear. If you want softness, use a half cup of white vinegar in the rinse cycle instead.
Use the Right Detergent
Regular detergents can leave residue, which makes workout clothes smell worse over time. A liquid detergent works better for synthetics than powder, as it rinses clean. For stubborn odors, look for detergents specifically formulated for sportswear.
Don’t Let Clothes Sit Damp
Leaving sweaty clothes in a bag or hamper is a recipe for permanent odor. Bacteria thrive in moist fabrics, and smells can set in quickly. Hang damp items to air out until you’re ready to wash.
Wash Small Loads
Workout clothes need space to rinse thoroughly. Overloading the machine leads to trapped sweat and detergent, which locks in smells. Smaller loads get cleaner and help the elastic last longer.
Handle Odor the Right Way
If smells linger, soak clothes in a mix of cold water and vinegar for 30 minutes before washing. Baking soda also works—add half a cup to the drum to neutralize odors naturally.
Protecting Delicate Fabrics
Not all activewear is built tough. Sports bras, compression leggings, and lightweight tops last longer when washed in mesh bags. This prevents stretching and tangling with zippers or rough fabrics.
Quick Checklist for Gym Clothes
- Wash in cold water.
- Skip fabric softener.
- Turn inside out.
- Air-dry when possible.
- Treat odors with vinegar or baking soda.
Final Thoughts
Workout clothes are an investment, and caring for them properly keeps them fresh, odor-free, and durable. By avoiding heat, skipping softeners, and using the right washing techniques, you’ll make your gear last far longer. For even more smart laundry tips that fit active lifestyles, join conversations on Hamlet Laundry’s Facebook page, where people share real-world hacks that keep clothes in top shape.