Sportswear is not exactly cheap, especially the ones from well-known brands such as Nike, Adidas and more. As much as we want to just dump all of our sweaty workout clothes into the washing machine and let it do the work, in this case, it’s best not to. Your workout clothes are made from various materials where some might need a more cautious approach to prolong its wear.
You got to admit, most of us can’t or are not willing to purchase workout clothes that could cost more than RM150 every month. Plus, if our workout clothes are not washed properly, bacteria and mold could grow on the fibres which lead to the stinky smell and shorten the apparels’ lifespan.
Here are 6 important tips to take note to keep your workout clothes smelling and looking fly!
1. Avoid fabric softeners
One of the biggest don’t’s is using softeners to wash your clothes. Not only it could damage your stretchable sportswear, it also leaves behind a coating that will trap smells which will be difficult to remove.
2. Don’t use too much detergent
Using more detergent doesn’t mean your clothes will be cleaner. In fact, if the leftover detergent is not rinsed off completely, it could attract fungal growth that causes a mildew-type odor. But if the odour is still around after several washes, you can soak your clothes in a mixture of cold water and half a cup of white vinegar for 15 to 30 minutes before washing. The vinegar helps to eliminate odours while breaking down any dirt that might have built up during and after your workout.
3. Turn your workout clothes inside out before washing, after every workout
Not only it can protect the printing and safeguard the colours on your clothes, it’ll help the detergent to deep clean the inner parts which harbor more sweat and bacteria. For bra tops, it’s best to remove the cups and wash it separately, that way you can preserve the shape.
4. Follow the label’s instructions
Most workout clothes have their labels sewed on the side which most of us will cut it off so it won’t get in the way during our workouts. But keeping it will be a life saver for your clothes since it informs you on the proper way to wash your clothes to maintain its condition and longetivity.
5. Separate colours
This is a no-brainer but occasionally, you’ll get new workout clothes where the colours might run especially dark and bright coloured apparels. To be safe, it’s best to separate your light coloured clothes from the rest if you want to avoid a tie-dye disaster.
6. Air dry under the sun
For clothes which are not suitable to be used in the dryer, it’s time to utilize the hot sunny weather we have to effectively dry your clothes while removing the bacteria which could still be on your clothes even after washing.
How do you wash your workout clothes? Share your tips with us and we will update the list!
Read Also: 5 Workout Brands that are Functional and Stylish
– Cover Image: health.com
