We’ve all been there; you’ve just finished an intense workout, and your activewear smells less than pleasant and is soaked in sweat. The good news is that keeping your gym clothes clean and smelling fresh doesn’t have to be a struggle. Below, we share the six best laundry tips for properly cleaning your activewear.
Read the labels.
First things first: always read the labels on your workout clothes before tossing them into the laundry! Pay attention to specific instructions like temperature settings and cycles. Not following these guidelines can cause damage to your gym clothes.
Sort out synthetic fabrics.
When washing your workout clothes, it’s essential to separate synthetic materials from cotton or other natural fibers. Synthetic fabrics like polyester or spandex are commonly found in workout clothes, as they help wick moisture away from your skin. Wash them separately in cold water to keep them looking and feeling their best.
Use the correct detergent.
Activewear detergents are essential for keeping your workout clothes clean and fresh. Traditional laundry detergents can contain harsh chemicals that can damage synthetic fibers, causing them to lose shape and elasticity. Instead, choose a detergent that’s designed for activewear. These detergents are specially formulated to remove sweat, bacteria, and odors without damaging the fabric or compromising the garment’s performance.
Wash in cold water.
One of the most important things to remember when learning how to wash your activewear is the water temperature. Hot water can actually damage the synthetic fibers in your workout clothes, making them less stretchy and supportive. Washing your activewear in cold water not only helps preserve the fabric but also saves energy and money. If your gear is particularly stained or dirty, pre-treat it with a stain remover before washing.
Avoid fabric softeners.
While fabric softeners may make your regular clothes feel soft and smell great, they’re not ideal for using on workout clothes. Softeners tend to coat fibers, which can reduce their ability to wick away moisture. Instead, try a white vinegar rinse (one cup during the rinse cycle) to naturally soften and deodorize your gym clothes.
Air it out.
When drying your workout gear, air drying is the best option. The high heat from a dryer can damage delicate synthetic fabrics and reduce their ability to wick moisture over time. To speed up the drying process, roll your activewear in a clean, dry towel before hanging it up to absorb excess water.
Visit Bakers Centre Laundry for All Your Needs
Not everyone has access to a laundry room with ample space for air-drying clothes, and that’s where your local laundromat comes in handy! Laundromats like Bakers Centre Laundry have large-capacity washers and dryers, which make cleaning big loads of activewear a breeze – perfect for athletes or families with lots of gear to clean! Plus, if you’re unsure how to wash your activewear, the staff at your local laundromat can provide helpful advice. Stop by today and earn FREE dry dollars when you wash at Bakers Centre Laundry, or try our 24-hour drop-off laundry service.
