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How to Care for Your Activewear Without Losing Its Stretch?

Your activewear works hard for you, just like you do for yourself. Sweating it out, stretching with every move, and holding everything in place. But incorrect washing methods, too much heat, or leaving activewear in a laundry bag for too long can slowly damage its stretch. Here’s how to care for it right so that it stays fresh, stretchy, and lasts a long time.

Pre – Wash Care:

1. Air out ASAP

Care begins the moment your workout ends. Tossing your damp gym clothes into your laundry bag and forgetting about them? That’s where damage begins. Moisture gets trapped, bacteria build, and odour sets deep into the fibers.

So air your gym clothes out as soon as you can.

2. Turn them inside out

Sweats, oils, and bacteria build up on the inner layer of your gym clothes. That’s the side that needs the most attention. So before washing, turn them inside out.

3. Handle extra odour easily

If the odour feels stronger than usual, soak them in cold water with a cup of white vinegar or baking soda for 15 to 30 minutes before washing.

Wash Time

1. Always use cold water

When it comes to activewear, heat is not your friend. Cold water protects elasticity. It helps fabrics retain their stretch, wash after wash.

2. Choose a mild detergent

Go for a gentle detergent, ideally one designed for sportswear. Strong detergents can be harsh, and using too much can actually trap odours instead of removing them. And don’t overdo detergent. More detergent doesn’t mean cleaner clothes; it can actually trap odours in the fabric.

3. Air dry ALWAYS

Let them air dry so this lasts for a long time. It helps preserve the elasticity and prevent shrinkage. And if you’re machine drying, use the lowest heat setting.

Big Mistakes to Skip:

Don’t use fabric softener as they coat the fibers and locks in odour.
Don’t use bleach. It breaks down the elasticity of the fabric.
Don’t overload the washing machine. Give your clothes room so water can circulate around them.

Storage Tips for Long Lasting Wear

Store in a cool, dry place.
Avoid over-stuffing clothes. Let fabrics breathe.
Fold instead of hanging stretchy items to retain their structure over time.

FAQs

1. Can I wash activewear with regular clothes?

It’s best to wash them separately or with similar fabrics. Avoid mixing with heavy items like towels or denim.

2. Why does my activewear still smell after washing?

Too much detergent usage or bacteria trapped in fibers could be the reason. Try using less detergent and add vinegar occasionally and air them out soon after workouts before washing.

3. Can I use fabric softener for a softer feel?

No! It damages activewear fabric.

4. How often should I wash activewear?

After every use. It helps prevent bacteria and odour buildup.

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Rani Kumari

Content Writer at Clovia

While the topic of periods & lingerie is typically spoken of in hushed tones, Rani talks about relatable lingerie challenges & solutions in a fun, quirky way. With good years of experience and her deep interest in lingerie and women’s hygiene always drives her to write about these topics & empower uninformed women. When she’s not writing, she’s probably on the lookout for some great INSIGHTS & amusing anecdotes to include in her work.