How to Care for Your Activewear

Dusting off your workout clothes and diving back into fitness routines can be energizing, but taking care of your activewear is just as essential to keep it performing and looking great. Proper care can help maintain your gear’s functionality, durability, and even save you money in the long run. Here’s your guide to keeping activewear fresh, clean, and long-lasting.

1. What Makes Activewear Unique?

Activewear is typically made from synthetic blends like polyester, Lycra, nylon, or newer recycled fibers. These materials are chosen for their durability, sweat-wicking properties, and lightweight feel, all designed to help you stay comfortable while working out. Unlike everyday fabrics, activewear is created to withstand sweat and movement, which can demand a different washing and care routine.

But what makes activewear’s care requirements different? The primary answer lies in its fibers. Synthetic materials need a gentler approach to washing to retain their flexibility and moisture-wicking capabilities. Additionally, because of the manufacturing process and fiber type, many activewear fabrics don’t break down as quickly in landfills, making their environmental impact more significant.

To combat waste, some brands now make activewear from recycled materials, such as repurposed plastic bottles. So, a great way to reduce your footprint is to invest in quality activewear and ensure it lasts by caring for it properly.

2. Best Washing Tips for Activewear

When it’s time to wash your workout gear, some key steps can help preserve its quality and keep it smelling fresh.

Steps for Washing:

Turn Inside Out: The inside of your activewear accumulates the most sweat and bacteria. Turning it inside out not only helps clean these areas thoroughly but also protects the outer fabric and color.

Use Cool or Cold Water: Stick to cool water when washing your activewear. Hot water can weaken synthetic fibers, causing them to lose shape and elasticity over time. A cold, gentle cycle is usually the best option.

Minimal Detergent: Too much detergent can lead to buildup in the fabric, creating an environment for bacteria that leads to bad odors. Use the recommended amount of detergent, or even opt for a sports-specific detergent for stubborn odors.

No Fabric Softeners: Fabric softeners can interfere with activewear’s moisture-wicking capabilities, blocking airflow and making it harder for your clothes to dry efficiently.

Wash After Every Use: Bacteria thrive in warm, damp environments, which is why it’s best to wash activewear after every workout to prevent odors. If you’re on the go, at least air-dry your gear to reduce bacteria growth until you can wash it.

Spot Clean as Needed: For stains, spot treat the area before washing. A simple mixture of water and white vinegar can be a great pre-soak solution, especially if the fabric has deep-set odors.

Following these washing steps helps retain the quality of your activewear and reduces the buildup of odors over time.

3. Drying and Storing Your Activewear

Proper drying and storage are essential for prolonging the life of your activewear. After washing, the drying process is where many people unknowingly damage their workout gear.

Air Dry Only: The best way to dry activewear is to hang it up or lay it flat in a well-ventilated area. Avoid the dryer as much as possible. Heat from the dryer can cause synthetic fibers to warp, shrink, and lose elasticity. Luckily, most activewear is designed to wick moisture, so air drying doesn’t take long.

Keep Away from Direct Heat: Heaters, radiators, and direct sunlight can cause the fabric to weaken or fade. Instead, air dry indoors to prevent heat damage.

Do Not Iron: Activewear doesn’t need ironing, and high temperatures can permanently damage the fabric. Simply smoothing the fabric by hand when hanging it up will do the trick.

Use a Guppyfriend Bag for Microplastics: Washing synthetic fabrics can release tiny microplastics into the water system, affecting marine life and ecosystems. A Guppyfriend washing bag traps microplastics and reduces their environmental impact, especially when washing items like activewear that are commonly made of synthetic fibers.

Storing Tips:

Store activewear in a cool, dry place where it can breathe, like a drawer or open shelf. If possible, avoid folding it tightly to maintain its elasticity and shape. Allowing airflow helps prevent odors and keeps fabrics fresh.Proper drying and storing habits reduce the chances of shrinkage, fading, and odor buildup, allowing you to enjoy your activewear for longer.