How to Keep Gym Clothes and Activewear Smelling Fresh

Gym clothes and activewear can quickly develop unpleasant odors due to sweat, bacteria, and the special fabrics they’re made from. Moisture-wicking fabrics, while great for workouts, can trap bacteria and make it harder to remove lingering smells if not properly cared for.  Sometimes it feels that clothes even freshly laundered still have a faint smell to them –  smell that can be reactivated once you start working out or getting sweaty while wearing them.

Let’s learn the best ways to clean your activewear and keep it smelling fresh, wash after wash.

Wash Gym Clothes As Soon As Possible

Sweaty clothes that sit too long can breed bacteria, leading to stronger odors that are harder to remove. Try to wash your gym clothes as soon as possible after wearing them. If washing immediately isn’t an option, here are a few alternatives:

• Air Dry Before Washing: Don’t leave damp gym clothes balled up in a gym bag or laundry hamper. Hang them up to air dry to prevent bacteria from multiplying and to reduce odor build-up.
• Pre-Rinse: If you know it will be a while before you can launder them, rinse your clothes in cold water to wash away some of the sweat and bacteria, then let them air dry.

Turn Clothes Inside Out

Odors are often caused by sweat and bacteria that accumulate on the inside of the clothing, where it comes into contact with your skin. Turning your gym clothes inside out before washing exposes the dirtiest parts to the detergent and water, making for a more effective clean.

Use a Detergent Specifically for Activewear

Regular laundry detergents may not be strong enough to break down the oils, sweat, and bacteria that cause odors in gym clothes. There are specialized detergents formulated for activewear, designed to penetrate moisture-wicking fabrics and remove stubborn odors without damaging the fabric. Look for a detergent that:

• Is enzyme-based to break down sweat, oils, and protein-based stains.
• Contains odor-fighting ingredients.
• Is free of fabric softeners, as these can clog moisture-wicking fabrics (more on that below).

Avoid Fabric Softeners and Dryer Sheets

Fabric softeners and dryer sheets can leave a residue on moisture-wicking fabrics, which can block their ability to wick away moisture. This build-up also traps sweat and bacteria in the fabric, leading to persistent odors.

• Tip: Skip fabric softeners altogether when washing gym clothes. If you want a little extra softness, use dryer balls in the dryer instead. Dryer balls help fluff the fabric while reducing static, without coating the fibers.

Wash in Cold Water

Gym clothes should be washed in cold water, as hot water can damage the fibers in moisture-wicking fabrics, causing them to lose their effectiveness. Cold water also helps prevent odor-causing bacteria from setting into the fabric.

Pre-Soak for Stubborn Odors

If your gym clothes have developed strong odors that don’t come out after a normal wash, a pre-soak can help:

• Vinegar Soak: Fill a basin or your washing machine with cold water and add one cup of white vinegar. Let the clothes soak for 30 minutes to an hour before washing them as usual. Vinegar helps break down sweat, oils, and bacteria, eliminating odors.
• Baking Soda Soak: Alternatively, you can add ½ cup of baking soda to cold water for a soak. Baking soda is great at neutralizing strong smells.

Don’t Overload the Washer

Overloading your washing machine prevents clothes from getting a thorough clean. Gym clothes, in particular, need space in the machine to allow water and detergent to penetrate the fabric properly and wash away bacteria and odors. Wash them in smaller loads for the best results.

Air Dry When Possible

High heat from the dryer can damage moisture-wicking fabrics over time, causing them to lose their stretch and effectiveness. Whenever possible, air dry your gym clothes by hanging them up. This helps preserve the fabric’s integrity and prevents odors from getting trapped.

If you prefer using the dryer, opt for the lowest heat setting and remove the clothes as soon as they are dry.  You can also remove when they are still damp and then finish off drying by hanging to dry.

Use Odor-Eliminating Sprays Between Washes

For gym clothes that are used regularly, but not quite ready for a wash, consider using an odor-eliminating spray. These sprays neutralize odors without the need for washing and are great for refreshing your clothes between workouts. Look for sprays specifically formulated for activewear to ensure they won’t damage moisture-wicking fabrics.

Wash With Like Fabrics

Avoid washing your gym clothes with heavy or abrasive items like jeans or towels. These items can cause friction and wear down the fabric of your activewear. Instead, wash gym clothes with other lightweight, synthetic fabrics for a gentler clean that preserves the fabric’s performance.

Truly Clean Activewear

By following these steps, you can keep your gym clothes and activewear fresh, clean, and functional. Proper care ensures that moisture-wicking fabrics continue to perform well, while preventing odors from building up over time. Stick to washing in cold water, using the right detergents, and avoiding fabric softeners, and your activewear will last longer and smell great after every wash!