When it comes to banishing those stubborn workout odors, you'll want to choose from the top performers in athletic wear detergents. Active Wear Laundry Detergent leads the pack with 90 loads of enzyme-powered cleaning, while Cheer Liquid tackles those dreaded grass stains across 64 loads. Persil's Activewear Clean offers 82 loads of skin-friendly performance, and Tide Plus Febreze Sport provides 54 loads with impressive odor control. For eco-conscious athletes, Rockin Green's powder formula delivers 90 loads of natural cleaning power. Each option brings unique strengths to your laundry game — let's explore which one matches your workout routine.
Key Takeaways
- Active wear detergents with enzyme-based formulations specifically target sweat, body oils, and bacteria that cause persistent workout odors.
- Cold water washing with specialized sports detergents preserves fabric performance while effectively eliminating stubborn gym clothes smells.
- Tide Plus Febreze Sport offers superior odor control through scent-renewal technology, effectively treating up to 54 loads per container.
- Natural detergent options like Rockin Green provide powerful enzyme action for 90 loads while remaining eco-friendly and gentle on fabrics.
- Pre-treating heavily soiled items and using concentrated formulas (1-2 tbsp per load) ensures maximum odor-fighting effectiveness in athletic wear.
Active Wear Laundry Detergent & Soak for Workout Clothes (90 Loads)
- Made in USA - Our powdered detergent is scientifically formulated with all natural plant-based enzymes that remove and eliminate smells generated from sweat in fitness and gym clothes
- Specialized Formula- The specialized laundry detergent for men's or women's athletic clothing compatible with your favorite brands activewear
- Workout Clothes Detergent - Remove smells from workout shirts, shorts, bras, tank tops, leggings, yoga pants, uniforms, jerseys, compression underwear, jock strap, and socks
For athletes and fitness enthusiasts battling stubborn workout odors, Active Wear Laundry Detergent & Soak stands out as a specialized cleaning solution. You'll find this USA-made powder detergent packs a powerful punch with its plant-based enzymes — tackling everything from sweaty yoga towels to those impossibly smelly base layers.
What sets this detergent apart is its natural formulation that's free from SLS, phosphates, and gluten — no more worrying about harsh chemicals on your expensive workout gear. The concentrated formula gives you 90 loads per bag (talk about bang for your buck!), and you won't find any artificial fragrances trying to mask those gym smells. Instead, it actually eliminates odors at their source.
While it's a bit of an investment upfront, users swear it's saved their priciest activewear from the donation pile — though you might need a couple of washes for those particularly "aromatic" pieces.
Best For: Active individuals and athletes who need a specialized detergent to effectively clean and deodorize expensive workout clothes and technical gear.
Pros:
- Natural, plant-based formula that's free from harsh chemicals and artificial fragrances
- Highly effective at removing stubborn workout odors and sweat stains
- Concentrated formula provides good value with 90 loads per bag
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost compared to traditional detergents
- May require multiple washes for heavily soiled items
- No smaller trial sizes available for first-time users
Cheer Liquid Laundry Detergent 64 loads 92 fl oz, HE Compatible
- Cheer keeps colors bright
- Fights fading & Pilling
- Specially formulated to help colorful clothes stay colorful
Athletes seeking to maintain vibrant workout gear will appreciate Cheer Liquid Laundry Detergent's color-protecting formula. This HE-compatible detergent delivers powerful cleaning for 64 loads in a generous 92 fl oz bottle — perfect for those weeks when your gym schedule runs into overtime.
You'll find it particularly effective on those post-workout challenges like grass stains from outdoor training and chocolate protein shake spills (we've all been there). The formula's proven track record of keeping colors bright means your compression tights and moisture-wicking shirts won't fade, even after countless wash cycles. While it's available in a fresh-scented version that'll keep your gear smelling clean all day, there's also a fragrance-free option for those with sensitive skin. Just remember to ship it separately from other items — at 92 fl oz, this powerhouse cleaner needs its own box to prevent any locker room-style spills.
Best For: Active individuals and athletes who need a reliable, color-safe detergent that can handle tough workout-related stains while maintaining the vibrancy of their athletic wear.
Pros:
- Excellent color protection that prevents fading even after numerous washes
- Effectively removes tough athletic stains like grass and protein shakes
- Available in both fresh scent and fragrance-free options for sensitive skin
Cons:
- Heavy bottle requires separate shipping to prevent damage
- May be pricier than basic detergent brands
- Potential risk of leakage during shipping if packaging is damaged
Persil Activewear Clean Liquid Laundry Detergent (82 Loads)
- With powerful Persil liquid laundry detergent, get a premium deep clean with every wash. Persil laundry detergent protects fabrics, deep cleans, and helps keep clothes looking newer, longer* *vs...
- Persil Activewear Clean is designed for activewear and works on all fabrics. It actively fights body oil and sweat, helps maintain shape & stretch, and actively removes body odor.
- Persil Activewear Clean provides an advanced clean on performance fabrics and is designed for activewear and synthetic fabrics
Workout enthusiasts who demand peak performance from their activewear will find Persil Activewear Clean Liquid Laundry Detergent an excellent choice. This 2X concentrated formula packs serious cleaning power into 82.5 fl oz — enough for 82 loads — while effectively tackling stubborn sweat stains and body odors that plague your gym gear.
You'll appreciate how this HE-compatible detergent maintains your activewear's shape and stretch while deep-cleaning performance fabrics. If you're sensitive to strong fragrances, you'll be pleased with its light, clean scent that won't trigger irritation — it's even safe for those with eczema thanks to its reduced chemical profile (goodbye, harsh Methylisothiazolinone).
The convenient measuring cap makes dosing a breeze, and you'll find it's surprisingly cost-effective compared to premium brands like Tide. When you're investing in quality workout clothes, it makes sense to protect them with a detergent that's specifically designed to keep them performing their best.
Best For: Active individuals and athletes who need a reliable detergent to clean and maintain their performance wear while keeping fabrics in optimal condition.
Pros:
- Powerful 2X concentrated formula effectively removes tough sweat stains and body odors from activewear
- Gentle on sensitive skin with a light, non-irritating fragrance and fewer harsh chemicals
- Cost-effective compared to premium brands while maintaining fabric quality and stretch
Cons:
- Some users find the scent reminiscent of cheap perfume
- Premium pricing compared to basic detergent brands
- May not be readily available in all retail locations
Tide Plus Febreze Sport Liquid Laundry Detergent (54 loads)
- Tide’s #1 odor remover
- Reformulated to remove even week-old sweat odors
- From America's #1 Trusted Detergent Brand* *Tide is Consumers' #1 Trusted laundry detergent brand in Readers Digest survey
Powerful odor-fighting technology makes Tide Plus Febreze Sport Liquid Laundry Detergent an excellent choice for anyone battling stubborn sweat smells in their athletic wear. When you're dealing with week-old workout clothes — we've all been there — this 84 fl oz bottle delivers impressive results across 54 loads.
You'll appreciate how this detergent tackles those tough gym session remnants with Tide's special scent-renewal technology that keeps working even after your clothes are dry. It's particularly effective for teenage athletes' gear — because let's face it, those hormone-driven perspiration odors need extra attention. As America's #1 trusted detergent brand, Tide's formula works in all washing machines and keeps your activewear smelling fresh up to three times longer than standard detergents. Plus, the secure packaging means you won't find any leaks when it arrives at your doorstep.
Best For: Active individuals, athletes, and families with teenagers who need powerful odor and sweat removal from workout clothes and athletic gear.
Pros:
- Superior odor-fighting capabilities, especially effective on week-old sweat and tough athletic wear smells
- Features Febreze scent-renewal technology that keeps clothes fresh even after wearing
- Trusted brand with proven track record and works in all washing machines
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to standard laundry detergents
- Strong scent may be too powerful for those sensitive to fragrances
- Limited to 54 loads per bottle, which may not be as economical for large families
Rockin Green Laundry Detergent Powder for Active Wear
- Defeat Stubborn Stains and Odors - Rockin Green Activewear washing powder is formulated with powerful plant-based enzymes that break down even the toughest stains and odors from sweat. Enjoy clean and...
- Extend Activewear Lifespan - Experience the power of our all free and clear laundry detergent, specially formulated to safeguard high-tech workout clothes and microfibers. Naturally extend the life of...
- Safe For Sensitive Skin - Harnessing the power of plant-based enzymes, our unscented natural laundry detergent free and clear is safe for those with sensitive skin, fragrance sensitivities, and...
Environmentally conscious fitness enthusiasts will appreciate Rockin Green's plant-based laundry powder, which tackles stubborn workout odors without harsh chemicals. Just one tablespoon per load is enough to eliminate even the most persistent gym funk — yes, even from your teenager's basketball jersey that's been fermenting in the hamper.
You'll find this vegan, biodegradable formula works exceptionally well in both standard and HE machines, lasting through 90 loads per 45oz container. The unscented version is perfect if you're sensitive to fragrances, and it's gentle enough for babies' clothes while being tough enough for your sweatiest compression gear.
While recent price increases have raised some eyebrows, the powerful enzyme-based cleaning action — free from bleach, dyes, and optical brighteners — still makes it a smart choice for dedicated athletes who need their performance wear to stay funk-free.
Best For: Athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and families dealing with tough workout odors who want an eco-friendly, skin-sensitive laundry solution that's especially effective on activewear.
Pros:
- Powerful plant-based enzymes effectively eliminate stubborn sweat odors and stains
- Eco-friendly formula free from harsh chemicals, making it safe for sensitive skin and babies
- Concentrated formula requires only 1 tablespoon per load, lasting 90 loads per container
Cons:
- Recent price increases have made it a more expensive option
- Some users need to follow specific washing instructions for best results
- Only available in powder form, which some users might find less convenient than liquid
Sweat X Original Activewear Laundry Detergent (45 Loads)
- KEEP YOUR ACTIVEWARE ACTIVE: Specially formulated high-performance detergent that uses NANOVASIVE technology to exfoliate stains and sweat known to cause nasty smells in activewear.
- RESTORE FABRIC PERFORMANCE: Revitalize your training gear, including moisture-wicking, compression, and breathable textiles, so you’ll confidently step into each workout.
- GET THE FUNK OUT: Just one cap of our detergent in your wash is all you need to remove tough stains like mud, grass, baseball clay, wine, pet food, or baby food.
Athletes and fitness enthusiasts looking for a high-tech solution to workout odors will find their match in Sweat X Original Activewear Laundry Detergent. Its NANOVASIVE technology — which sounds like something from a sci-fi movie but actually works — penetrates deep into fabric fibers to eliminate even the most stubborn gym smells.
You'll only need one capful per load to tackle everything from mud-caked soccer shorts to wine-stained workout tanks (because sometimes post-workout celebrations get messy). The ultra-thin formula works especially well with moisture-wicking and compression fabrics, keeping their performance features intact while banishing embedded odors. While it's pricier than your standard detergent, the concentrated formula stretches to 45 loads, and you won't need to rewash your clothes because the stink didn't come out the first time — a common frustration with regular detergents.
Best For: Serious athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and active families who need a specialized detergent to eliminate tough workout odors and stains from performance fabrics and activewear.
Pros:
- Highly effective at removing embedded odors and stains from technical fabrics
- Concentrated formula requires only one capful per load for 45 washes
- Specially designed to maintain performance features of moisture-wicking and compression garments
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to traditional laundry detergents
- Some users report lingering odors in certain garment areas
- May be considered overspecialized for households that don't regularly use athletic wear
WIN Activewear Detergent for Sports Apparel (32 oz)
- THE BEST SELLING ACTIVEWEAR DETERGENT ON AMAZON. WIN is specially engineered to restore stretch fabrics, brighten colors, and remove workout odor from microfiber fabrics, synthetic fabrics, and...
- THE ACTIVE DETERGENT FOR ACTIVE PEOPLE. WIN Sports Laundry Detergent makes your high performance activewear apparel perform better and last longer. Ideal for apparel from Lululemon, Athleta, Nike,...
- THE TOP SELLING FITNESS DETERGENT FOR 20 YEARS. Perfect for your Football laundry, Hockey laundry, Lacrosse laundry, Soccer laundry, Basketball laundry, Softball laundry, Volleyball laundry,...
When it comes to banishing stubborn odors from synthetic workout gear, WIN Activewear Detergent stands out as a specialist solution. You'll find it particularly effective on everything from running clothes to martial arts uniforms — and it's even tackled the notorious challenge of hockey gear.
You've got options with WIN, including a fragrance-free version if you're sensitive to scents. While it works great on its own, some users have found success pairing it with Tide pods in top-loading washers for extra cleaning power. The 32-oz bottle tackles tough jobs, and you can boost its effectiveness by pre-soaking heavily soiled items. Just keep in mind that results might vary in super humid climates — a few Florida users weren't as impressed. For best results, you can add a splash of vinegar to your wash for those extra-stubborn workout stenches.
Best For: Athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and anyone needing to remove tough odors from synthetic workout clothes and sports gear.
Pros:
- Highly effective at removing stubborn odors from synthetic athletic wear and sports equipment
- Available in fragrance-free option for sensitive users
- Versatile enough to work on various types of gear, from running clothes to martial arts uniforms
Cons:
- May be less effective in highly humid environments
- Some users need to combine with other detergents for better results
- Heavily soiled items require pre-soaking for optimal performance
Mollys Suds Active Wear Laundry Detergent for Performance Fabrics
- EXTRA STRENGTH: Active Wear Detergent is formulated with active enzymes, baking soda and plant-based surfactants (powerful cleaning agents). Specially formulated to fight the sweatiest, smelliest...
- SAFER INGREDIENTS: Our formula is safer for those with fragrance sensitivities, sensitive skin, little ones, or other sensitivities. There are no harsh ingredients, synthetic fragrances, dyes, optical...
- EXTRA CONCENTRATED: This concentrated formula works in all water temperatures and is effective in both hard and soft water. This low sudsing formula is safe for standard and HE washing machines.
Performance-driven athletes seeking an eco-conscious laundry solution will find Mollys Suds Active Wear Laundry Detergent perfectly suited to their needs. This concentrated powder formula packs 120 loads into a 60 oz bag — proving that good things come in small packages.
You'll appreciate how this detergent's active enzymes and plant-based surfactants tackle those post-workout odors while preserving your gear's essential features like moisture-wicking and breathability. It's certified cruelty-free and doesn't contain any harsh chemicals or synthetic fragrances, making it ideal if you've got sensitive skin (because let's face it, chafing from detergent residue is the last thing you need during training).
While it works great for sweaty gym clothes, you might want to keep another detergent handy for those stubborn oil-based stains. Pro tip: Use it in any water temperature, and it's perfectly safe for both standard and HE machines.
Best For: Athletes and fitness enthusiasts who need an eco-friendly, skin-sensitive detergent specifically formulated to clean and preserve performance wear while eliminating workout odors.
Pros:
- Highly concentrated formula provides excellent value with 120 loads per 60 oz bag
- Effectively removes sweat odors while preserving performance fabric features like moisture-wicking
- Safe for sensitive skin and eco-conscious with plant-based ingredients and cruelty-free certification
Cons:
- Less effective on oil-based stains compared to conventional detergents
- Some users report disliking the light fragrance
- May need to be combined with other detergents for tough stains
Lysol Sport Laundry Sanitizer for Gym Clothes (90oz)
- LAUNDRY DETERGENT ADDITIVE: Add Lysol Laundry Sanitizer to every wash, in the fabric softener drawer, to sanitize and deodorize smelly laundry. Lysol Laundry Sanitizer kills many bad odors that...
- COLOR SAFE BLEACH ALTERNATIVE: Lysol Laundry Sanitizer is a bleach alternative that effectively kills 99.9% of bacteria***, without the harshness of bleach. It's gentle on fabrics, effective in cold...
- LYSOL LAUNDRY SANITIZER: Better than in-wash scent boosters that just mask bad odors. Lysol Laundry Sanitizer kills the odor causing bacteria that laundry detergents alone can leave behind, even in...
Serious gym-goers and fitness enthusiasts won't find a better odor-fighting companion than Lysol Sport Laundry Sanitizer for Gym Clothes. When you're tackling those post-workout clothes that smell like they've been through three marathons, this 90oz powerhouse steps up to the challenge — killing 99.9% of odor-causing bacteria without harsh bleach.
You'll find it's remarkably easy to use: just add it to your washer's fabric softener compartment alongside your regular detergent. It works in cold water — perfect for protecting your expensive performance wear — and it's safe for both colors and whites. While other products just mask odors, this sanitizer actually eliminates the bacteria causing those stubborn gym smells. If you're dealing with particularly pungent pieces, try soaking them first in a solution with the sanitizer for maximum effectiveness.
Best For: Active individuals, athletes, and gym enthusiasts who need to eliminate stubborn odors and bacteria from workout clothes and activewear.
Pros:
- Kills 99.9% of bacteria without using harsh bleach
- Works effectively in cold water, making it safe for expensive athletic wear
- Can be used alongside regular detergent in both standard and HE washing machines
Cons:
- May require double the amount in high-efficiency washers
- Some users report packaging issues with leakage
- Slight fragrance might be noticeable before clothes are fully dried
Factors to Consider When Choosing Detergent for Workout Clothes
When you're shopping for workout clothing detergent, you'll need to weigh several essential factors — from specialized odor-fighting formulas to fabric-specific compatibility requirements. Your detergent choice should align with your activewear's materials, considering whether you're washing moisture-wicking synthetics or cotton blends that each need different cleaning approaches. Beyond the technical specs, you'll want to balance cost-per-load efficiency (typically $0.15-0.30 per wash) with your preferences for natural versus synthetic ingredients, while ensuring the formula matches your machine's load size specifications.
Odor Fighting Technology
The battle against stubborn workout odors begins with choosing the right detergent technology. Today's advanced formulations aren't just soap — they're sophisticated odor-fighting systems that target the root causes of those not-so-fresh gym clothes.
When you're shopping for activewear detergent, you'll want to look for products featuring enzyme-based formulations. These specialized enzymes work like tiny demolition crews, breaking down sweat and body oils that regular detergents might miss. Many brands now offer scent-renewal technology that activates with movement — so you'll stay fresh during your workout, not just when you first put on your gear.
If you've got sensitive skin, you're in luck. Several manufacturers have developed plant-based solutions that eliminate up to 99.9% of odor-causing bacteria without harsh chemicals. The best part? These detergents are designed to work in both cold and hot water, so you won't have to choose between following care labels and getting truly clean clothes.
Look for products that specifically mention "activewear" or "sports detergent" on the label — these formulations have been tested on the toughest workout scenarios and engineered to handle your sweatiest challenges.
Material Safety Compatibility
Beyond fighting odors, material safety deserves your careful attention when selecting workout gear detergents. You'll want to protect both your skin and those pricey performance fabrics — because nobody wants their $80 leggings falling apart after three washes.
Your best bet is to look for plant-based or biodegradable formulations that skip the harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances. These gentler options won't compromise your gear's moisture-wicking abilities or leave irritating residues that could turn your morning run into an itchy nightmare.
When checking labels, you'll want to avoid:
- Phosphates (they're tough on water systems)
- Optical brighteners (they can weaken fabric fibers)
- Synthetic fragrances (potential skin irritants)
- Harsh chemical additives
Look for detergents that explicitly state they're compatible with technical fabrics and have been dermatologically tested. Remember, your activewear is fundamentally a second skin during workouts, so what you wash it in matters. Opt for septic-safe formulas if you're on a private system — they're typically gentler on both your clothes and the environment. After all, your workout clothes should help you perform better, not leave you dealing with skin irritations or damaged gear.
Natural Vs Chemical Ingredients
Choosing between natural and chemical detergents boils down to two critical factors: skin sensitivity and cleaning power. If you're prone to skin irritation — especially after those sweaty workout sessions — you'll want to evaluate natural detergents that use plant-based enzymes and skip those synthetic fragrances that can make your skin angry.
Chemical detergents pack a stronger punch when it comes to demolishing those stubborn post-workout odors — we've all had that one shirt that just won't smell fresh — but they come with trade-offs. While they're champions at breaking down tough stains, they might leave behind residues that turn your moisture-wicking gear into a potential irritant factory.
Here's what to weigh when making your choice:
- Natural Detergents:
- Gentler on sensitive skin
- Environmentally friendlier formulations
- Often unscented options available
- Free from SLS and phosphates
- Chemical Detergents:
- Superior stain-fighting power
- More effective on set-in odors
- Usually more affordable
- Wider availability
Pricing and Value Analysis
When evaluating workout clothes detergents, smart shoppers look beyond the initial sticker price to assess the true cost per load. Concentrated formulas — while appearing more expensive upfront — often deliver superior value, with many brands offering up to 90 loads per package. You'll find that doing the math reveals surprising savings compared to traditional liquid detergents.
Before committing to a bulk purchase, you're better off starting with a trial size. This strategy lets you test the detergent's effectiveness on your specific workout gear without breaking the bank. After all, there's nothing worse than being stuck with a large supply of detergent that doesn't meet your needs!
Consider these value factors:
- Cost per load (divide total price by number of loads)
- Concentration level (higher concentrations mean less product needed)
- Performance effectiveness (cheaper isn't always better for tough workout odors)
- Package size options (flexibility in purchasing)
While price matters, don't compromise on quality — your expensive athletic wear deserves proper care. Many users find that spending a bit more on specialized detergents actually saves money by extending the life of their workout clothes.
Loading Size Requirements
Loading size requirements go hand in hand with getting the best value from your workout clothes detergent. You'll want to match your detergent's load capacity with your actual laundry habits — no one wants to run out mid-wash when those sweaty gym clothes are piling up!
When evaluating your options, consider these key factors:
- Load Capacity Range: Most detergents offer between 45 to 120 loads per container — choose based on your washing frequency
- Concentration Levels: Concentrated formulas typically need just one tablespoon per load, making them more space-efficient
- Machine Compatibility: Your washer type (standard or HE) affects how much detergent you'll need per load
For frequent exercisers who wash workout gear 3-4 times weekly, you'll benefit from larger containers offering 90+ loads. If you're a casual gym-goer washing activewear once a week, a 45-load bottle might suffice. Here's a practical tip: track your weekly loads for two weeks before purchasing — you might be surprised at your actual usage patterns!
Remember to check if bulk options are available for your preferred brand. They often provide better value, especially if you're committed to a specific detergent that works well for your gear.
Machine Type Compatibility
Your washing machine type plays an essential role in selecting the right detergent for workout clothes. Whether you've got a standard or high-efficiency (HE) machine, using the wrong detergent can turn your cleaning routine into a sudsy nightmare — and nobody wants that!
For HE washing machines, you'll need to be extra careful about your detergent choice. These machines require special low-sudsing formulas that won't overwhelm their sophisticated systems. Look for the "HE" symbol on detergent bottles — it's your guarantee that the product won't cause excessive foam or potentially void your machine's warranty.
Standard washing machines are more forgiving, but you'll still want to check the label for compatibility. Many modern detergents work in both machine types, making them a versatile choice for your workout gear. Here's what to look for:
- Clear "HE Compatible" or "All Machine Types" labeling
- Specific dosage instructions for your machine type
- Suds-control formulation mentions (especially important for HE machines)
Remember to follow the recommended detergent amount — more isn't always better, and the right amount guarantees your sweaty workout clothes get the thorough clean they deserve.
Stain Removal Effectiveness
The three most challenging enemies of workout clothes are sweat, grime, and stubborn stains. When you're giving it your all at the gym, your activewear bears the brunt of your hard work — and it shows in those tough-to-tackle marks.
To effectively combat these stubborn adversaries, you'll want to look for detergents with enzyme-based formulas. These specialized cleaners contain natural proteins that break down sweat and organic matter at a molecular level — think of them as tiny cleanup crews targeting specific types of stains.
For best results, consider these stain-fighting strategies:
- Pre-treat visible stains before washing
- Use concentrated formulas (typically 1-2 tablespoons per load)
- Plan for multiple wash cycles on heavily soiled items
- Choose detergents with dual-action formulas that target both stains and odors
Remember that not all stains are created equal — grass marks from outdoor workouts need different treatment than protein-based sweat stains. That's why you'll want a detergent that's versatile enough to handle whatever your workout throws at it. Many modern athletic-specific detergents now incorporate multiple enzyme types to tackle various stain categories simultaneously.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Mix Regular Detergent With Sports Detergent for Better Cleaning?
While you technically can mix regular and sports detergents, it's not recommended — you might end up using too much detergent overall, which can trap odors in your clothes. Instead, stick to one detergent type per wash. If you're determined to use both, cut each detergent's recommended amount in half. Remember, more soap doesn't equal cleaner clothes — it can actually make them smell worse!
How Long Should I Air-Dry Workout Clothes to Prevent Odor Buildup?
Just like a wet dog needs a good shake, your workout clothes need proper drying time! You'll want to air-dry your athletic gear for 4-6 hours minimum, though it's best to let them dry completely overnight. Hang items in a well-ventilated space — spread out, not bunched together — with good airflow. Don't toss them in a laundry basket while damp, as bacteria love that warm, moist environment.
Should Workout Clothes Be Washed Separately From Regular Laundry?
Yes, you should wash your workout clothes separately from regular laundry. Athletic wear's synthetic fabrics need special care — they can trap oils and bacteria that might transfer to your everyday clothes. Plus, washing them together can cause friction that'll wear down those moisture-wicking properties you've paid good money for. If you must combine loads, stick to similar synthetic materials and avoid washing them with heavy items like towels or jeans.
Does Washing Workout Clothes in Cold Water Help Preserve Elastic Properties?
Yes, cold water washing is your best bet for preserving the elastic properties in your workout clothes. Hot water can break down spandex and elastane fibers — those stretchy materials that keep your gear fitting just right. You'll want to stick to temperatures between 60-80°F (15-27°C) for washing. Not only does cold water help maintain the fabric's stretch, but it also prevents shrinkage and keeps those moisture-wicking properties working effectively.
How Often Should I Replace My Workout Clothes to Maintain Odor Control?
Like a trusty workout partner, your athletic gear needs to be retired before it loses its mojo! You'll want to replace your workout clothes every 6-12 months if you exercise 3-4 times weekly. If you notice persistent odors that won't wash out, stretched fabric, or fading antimicrobial properties, it's time for new gear. High-impact items like sports bras and compression shorts typically need replacement sooner — around the 6-month mark.
