How to Take Proper Care of Your Workout Clothes

Workout clothes are not what they used to be! These days you tend to make fashion statement while working out, the clothes are more stylish, with interesting cuts and fabrics. Still, the same pieces we invest a lot of money in, sometimes wear out fast and become unsightly. What do we do then? Typically we blame the manufacturers, but in most cases, the fault is our own.

If we don’t take proper care of our workout clothes, they can soon become useless. So, if you have already invested a large sum of money into those threads, you might as well know how to preserve them for a long time. Check out my tips for keeping your workout gear in tip top shape!

Don’t Let Your Gear Soak in Sweat

Workout sessions can be exhausting, and when you get home you just want to pass out! In those moments, you typically forget your workout clothes in the gym bag or just throw them in the laundry basket. This habit is the worst! It allows the growth of mold, mildew and bacteria on your clothes which can harm the clothes and your health.
So, take a few seconds to hang the clothes to dry before you get your deserved rest. Afterwards, put them into the washing machine to avoid the lingering smell. You can also soak them in a mixture of vinegar and water to kill the remaining bacteria.

Separate White and Colors

Not all gym clothes are the same, and you should follow the same rules as with your ordinary laundry – wash white and colors separately to avoid bleeding. Also, when you’re washing the bright pieces, use detergents that are meant to maintain the color. As for the fluffy textured pieces, do not mix them with bright or white ones and avoid washing your gym clothes with towels and fleece garments.

Be Gentle with Washing

Although quality bodybuilding clothing is made to be durable and withstand many harsh conditions, you shouldn’t test that theory by washing them irresponsibly. Use the delicate cycle and cold water to avoid loss of color and prevent damage to the fabric. As for the sports bras and other smaller items, you can use a lingerie bag for extra protection.

Do Not Use Bleach and Fabric Softeners

Speaking of gentle washing, many detergents, fabric softeners, and of course, bleach can damage the technical features of the fabrics. In fact, the chemicals in those products can limit the ability of the fibers to repel sweat and eliminate odors. Instead, opt for products free of fragrances and dyes or for detergents specifically designed for sportswear.

Dry Naturally

The quickest way to dry your workout clothes is by using the dryer, but it’s not always the best way. The heat emitted by the dryer can break down the fabric’s elasticity, causing  significant damage. The most favorable solution for your gym clothes is to hang them out to dry, if possible, somewhere in direct sunlight. Sun will help your clothes stay clean and bacteria-free longer. If you really must to use the dryer, at least make sure it is set on minimal heat and skip the dryer sheets.

Your workout clothes may be more high-maintenance than you thought, but considering the quality and cost, they deserves investing some time into prolonging their lifespan. So the next time when you think about just leaving it in the gym bag after a sweat session, think again!