The No-Sweat Approach to Caring for Your Activewear

Your favourite activewear goes through a lot during workouts, and just as you give your best, your garments deserve a little extra TLC to keep them clean, fresh, and longevity. Caring for your may seem daunting, but with the right approach and some simple steps, you can maintain your gear effortlessly. Here’s how to keep your workout clothes looking and feeling fabulous after every use:

1. Air Out Your Sweaty Clothes Immediately
   After an intense workout, it's essential to prevent odours from settling in. Hang up your workout clothes as soon as you get home rather than stuffing them into your gym bag. This quick action helps dry out the fabric and prevents mold or mildew from forming.

2. Separate Your Laundry
   To keep your activewear in top shape, wash similar fabrics together. Avoid mixing heavy fabrics like denim with lightweight synthetics, as the lint can cling to your athletic wear, and the abrasive materials can cause unwanted wear and tear.

3. Turn Garments Inside Out
   For optimal cleaning, turn your garments inside out before tossing them into the wash. This action exposes the areas most prone to odour and bacteria, allowing your washing machine to cleanse effectively. It is also recommended to use a laundry bag for your crops and bottoms. 

4. Pre-Soak in Vinegar Before Washing
   If lingering odours plague your favourite leggings or sports bras, consider a vinegar soak! Mix one part white distilled vinegar with four parts cold water and let your clothes soak for 20-30 minutes. This simple and natural remedy helps break down oils, dirt, and bacteria, giving your washing machine a fighting chance to remove the nastiest smells.

5. Use the Right Amount of Detergent
   When it comes to detergent, more isn’t always better. Using too much can leave a residue that attracts odour-causing bacteria. Instead, use a little less than you typically would for regular clothes to ensure your garments stay fresh and clean.

6. Avoid Fabric Softener
   While it may be tempting to use fabric softeners or dryer sheets, these can leave a residue that traps odours and bacteria in your workout gear. Instead, consider using dryer balls, which will soften and prevent wrinkles without harming the integrity of the fabric.

7. Wash in Cold Water on Gentle Cycle
   High heat can weaken the fibres of your activewear, causing them to lose their effectiveness over time. To keep your garments durable, wash them in cold water on a gentle cycle to treat the delicate performance fabrics with care.

8. Air-Dry Your Activewear
   After washing, hang your activewear to air-dry. This method helps to maintain the shape and elasticity of your clothing.