How to Wash and Care for Activewear to Make It Last

Activewear is a must-have in many wardrobes, designed to keep you comfortable during workouts with its breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics. These essential features set activewear apart from regular clothing, which is why it needs special care to maintain its performance. Without proper maintenance, you might face issues like loss of elasticity, unpleasant odors, and damage to the fabric. But don’t worry! In this article, you’ll find detailed tips on how to wash and care for your activewear, helping it stay in great condition for as long as possible.

Always check the label for specific care instructions. Different materials such as spandex, nylon, or polyester may require particular washing temperatures or handling to maintain their quality.

Wash activewear separately from other garments to reduce friction, which can cause pilling. Avoid washing delicate activewear with rough fabrics, such as jeans or towels. Light-colored items should also be separated to prevent color transfer. Using mesh laundry bags can help protect softer garments, minimizing stretching and tangling.

Before washing, turn activewear inside out to protect printed logos, designs, and fabrics from abrasion. It also allows better cleaning of the inner surface, where sweat and bacteria accumulate.

If your activewear develops stubborn odors, soak it in cold water mixed with half a cup of white vinegar before washing. You can also add vinegar to the rinse cycle to break down bacteria and eliminate lingering smells.

High-performance fabrics require care to maintain their moisture-wicking and breathable properties. Use a mild or sport-specific detergent to clean the clothes without degrading the material. Avoid harsh detergents, which can damage elasticity and cause buildup.

Cold water preserves the elasticity of synthetic fabrics and helps prevent shrinking or warping. Set your washing machine to cold water to protect your activewear and maintain its performance features.

Use the gentle cycle to reduce wear and tear on delicate fabrics. This helps prevent pilling, snags, and damage to features such as seams and logos.

Fabric softeners can coat performance fabrics, reducing their breathability and moisture-wicking capabilities. Avoid using them to maintain your activewear's functionality.

Air-drying is the best way to maintain the elasticity and fit of your activewear. Use a drying rack or hang clothes in a well-ventilated space to prevent wrinkles and shrinkage. Avoid direct sunlight, which can fade colors over time.

Ensure your activewear is completely dry before storing it to avoid mold and mildew. Keep it in a cool, dry space to prevent bacterial growth.

• Pre-treat sweat stains with vinegar or baking soda solutions.

• Add half a cup of vinegar to the rinse cycle to break down bacteria and neutralize odors.

• Use sport-specific detergents for a deeper clean and odor removal.

• Turn activewear inside out to reduce friction during washing.

• Wash delicate items in mesh laundry bags to protect them from rubbing against other clothes.

• Use a fabric shaver or a razor to remove pills and restore the garment’s smooth surface.

It’s not recommended to wash activewear with regular clothing. The fibers from other garments can transfer onto the fabric, causing pilling and reducing the performance of your activewear. Additionally, washing similar fabrics together helps to avoid wear or snagging, ultimately extending the lifespan of your activewear.