Why Proper Washing Techniques Matter for Sportswear

Why Proper Washing Techniques Matter for Sportswear:

When you’re putting in the hard work at the gym, playing your favorite sport, or just having fun in your activewear, the last thing on your mind is probably how to clean your clothes. But, did you know that proper washing techniques for sportswear are just as important as picking the right gear? So, it’s time to get into why it’s important, and how you can keep your activewear fresh, lasting and performing.

What Happens to Sportswear When It’s Washed Wrong?

Sportswear is designed from special fabrics that are made to withstand your most intense workouts and high-energy engagements. However, washing these fabrics incorrectly could be cutting the lifespan of your garments or ruining their abilities of performance.

Here’s what could go wrong:

• Loss of Stretch: Most activewear is made with stretchy materials that help you move freely. Washing them with the wrong methods can cause them to lose their shape and elasticity, making them less comfortable.
• Damaged Fabric: If you wash your sportswear clothes using hot water or harmful detergents, the fibers in your clothes can be damaged. Which makes pilling, rips, and breakdown of the fabric itself, resulting in your clothing looking old within a short time.
• Stubborn Odor: Even after washing, sports gear may hold onto sweat and smells. Your clothes can smell sweaty and yucky if not washed properly.
• Color Fading: Washing your sportswear too often or washing them with the wrong kind of detergent may cause your clothes to fade before they get old.

The Benefits of Proper Washing Techniques

Okay, time for the fun stuff! With proper washing techniques, your performance clothes will remain fresh, comfortable, and durable. This is why you actually need to take care of your activewear:

• Better Performance: Clean clothes with preserved fabric stretch help maintain comfort and flexibility, which is essential for any sport or workout.
• Longer Lifespan: Proper washing extends the life of your gear, meaning you won’t have to replace it as often.
• Odor-Free Freshness: By using the correct washing techniques, you can remove sweat and bacteria, ensuring your clothes stay fresh and clean.
• Preserved Look: Keeping your clothes in great condition means they’ll look new longer—no one wants to wear a faded, worn-out workout shirt!
• Eco-Friendly: Washing clothes correctly helps reduce your impact on the environment. You’ll use less water, energy, and harsh chemicals.

So, How Do You Wash Sportswear Properly?

A few simple ways will make your activewear care easier than you think. So let’s run off through the tricks so you can do your best every time.

Turn Your Clothes Inside Out

This helps preserve the outer surface of your clothes and prevents fading. It also allows sweat, oils, and bacteria to be washed out more easily.

Use Cold Water

Some fabrics are made out of thin materials that can be easily ruined by hot water, it will also over time cause the material to shrink. Cold water is a better option as it saves the fibers and allows your clothes to last longer.

Choose the Right Detergent

Don’t use just any detergent. Opt for a sport-specific detergent, or one free of bleach or fabric softener. These should help in ensuring that no damage is done to the fabric.

Avoid Fabric Softener

Fabric softeners coat the fabric, which can make it less breathable and less effective at wicking away moisture. This could lead to discomfort and even cause your clothes to trap odors.

Wash Sportswear Separately

Whenever possible, wash your activewear separately from your everyday clothes. By avoiding zippers, buttons or other rough fabrics in the other laundry.

Use a Mesh Bag

Place delicate pieces, such as sports bras or leggings, in a mesh laundry bag. This will help them to not get snagged or tangled with other clothes within the wash cycle.

Avoid Overloading the Washer

Make sure you give your clothes xxl space in the washing machine. Uneven wear and tear from clothes rubbing against each other too much from overloading.

Air Dry Instead of Using the Dryer

The dryer can destroy the fabric of your sportswear with its heat. Instead, stick to laying your clothing flat on a towel to dry or allow for them to dry on hangers to avoid any shrinking or stretching.

Did you know: Baking Soda and Vinegar is a Labour Saving Pair

A little secret to keep your athletic clothing fresh? Baking soda and vinegar! These two household items are really powerful at getting rid of nasty odors and germs from your clothes.

• Toss in half a cup of baking soda with the wash to help neutralize odors.
• Add a half of a cup of white vinegar as you rinse to help kill bacteria and leave a fresh feeling when you wear your clothes.
• And these are not only natural, but they are also good for your clothes as well as the environment!

When Should You Be Washing Your Sports Clothing?

If you are now conceiving great, how often should I wash my sportswear? It all comes down to how much you move around. There is an easy process to guide you through that:

• POST-WORKOUT:If you are drenched, try to wash your wear directly after you exercise. It is important for prevention of odor and the growth of bacteria.
• If You Haven’t Sweated Much: If your workout was low intensity or you haven’t really sweated, you can wear it again before washing your sportswear.
• Once a Week:If you are repeating items a few days in a week, wash them by the end of the week at the very least.

How to Tackle Stubborn Stains

These clothes are designed for tough workouts and  athletic sportswear, but that does not mean they are stain-proof. From grass stains and sweat marks to food spills, here are some tips for returning your threads to as good as new:

• Pre-Treat Stains: Before washing, treat any stains with a stain remover or a little bit of dish soap. Gently rub it in and let it sit for a few minutes before putting it in the wash.
• Use a Soft Scrub Brush: For tougher stains like mud or grass, use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the stain before washing.
• Wash Immediately: The longer you wait to wash stained clothes, the harder it will be to get the stains out. Try to wash them as soon as you can after wearing them.

The Bottom Line

Your activewear is well-deserved care given that it works hard for you too. By taking these easy steps, you will extend the life of your clothes and keep them fresh, comfortable, and ready for action whenever you are.

And remember, your clothes aren’t just about looking good—they’re also about performing well. By washing them properly, you help preserve the fabric’s moisture-wicking abilities, breathability, and stretch. So, next time you throw your workout gear in the wash, keep these tips in mind.

Your clothes and your body will thank you.