Washing gym clothes properly is essential to maintain their cleanliness, longevity, and to keep unpleasant odors at bay. Here are some tips for washing gym clothes:
Wash after every use: It's generally a good idea to wash gym clothes after each use, especially if you've had a sweaty or intense workout. Sweat can leave behind bacteria and oils on the fabric, leading to unpleasant odors and potential skin irritations if worn again without washing.
Separate from other laundry: Consider washing gym clothes separately from your regular laundry. This prevents the transfer of sweat, bacteria, and odors to other garments. Also, avoid washing gym clothes with delicate or lint-prone fabrics to prevent damage.
Turn clothes inside out: Turning gym clothes inside out before washing helps protect any printed or decorated areas on the clothing from fading or damage.
Use cold water: Washing gym clothes in cold water is usually sufficient to remove most odors and stains while also preserving the fabric's elasticity and color.
Choose a mild detergent: Opt for a mild, sports-specific detergent or a detergent that is free of fragrances and harsh chemicals. Regular detergents can sometimes trap odors in synthetic fabrics.
Avoid fabric softeners: Fabric softeners can leave a residue on gym clothes, reducing their moisture-wicking properties. Instead, use vinegar as a natural fabric softener alternative.
Don't overuse detergent: Using too much detergent can lead to a buildup of soap residue, which can trap bacteria and odors in the fabric. Follow the detergent manufacturer's guidelines for the appropriate amount to use.
Air dry whenever possible: High heat from dryers can break down elastic fibers and cause gym clothes to lose their stretchiness. Whenever possible, air dry your gym clothes to extend their lifespan.
Remove stains promptly: Treat any stains on gym clothes as soon as possible to prevent them from setting in permanently.
Rotate between gym clothes: If you have multiple sets of gym clothes, rotate between them to give each set time to air out and reduce wear and tear on individual garments.
Ultimately, how often you wash gym clothes depends on how intensely you exercise, personal hygiene preferences, and the climate. If you're working out intensely and sweating a lot, washing after every use is the best practice. However, for light workouts where you don't sweat as much, you may be able to wear gym clothes a couple of times before washing. Just remember to hang them to air out after each use and be mindful of any odors or stains.