Tips on Caring for Your Sportswear and Gym Gear

About this article

Your athletic apparel plays a significant role in your fitness journey. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete, a gym regular, or someone who enjoys the occasional outdoor workout, understanding how to properly care for your activewear is essential.

In this article we’re exploring how to keep your activewear in great condition for longer.

Understanding the Fabric

Sportswear is designed to be durable, flexible, and moisture-wicking. Common materials include:

Polyester – Resistant to wrinkles and shrinking, polyester is a staple in activewear. It’s breathable and wicks moisture away from your skin.
Nylon – Known for its strength and stretchability, nylon is also quick-drying.
Spandex – Also known as Lycra or elastane, spandex offers incredible stretch and is often blended with other fabrics.
Cotton Blends – While cotton is absorbent, it’s often blended with other materials for quicker drying and increased durability.

Washing Tips for Different Materials

Polyester

Cold Wash – Use cold water to prevent shrinking and protect the fabric’s strength.
Mild Detergent – Opt for a mild detergent, avoiding fabric softeners which can trap odors.
Air Dry – Air drying is preferable to maintain fabric integrity.

Nylon

Separate Colors – Wash colors separately to avoid color bleeding.
Gentle Cycle – Use a gentle wash cycle to maintain the fabric’s stretchiness.
Avoid Heat – Skip the dryer and iron to prevent melting or warping.

Spandex

Cold Water Wash – Like polyester, spandex benefits from cold water washing.
Soft Detergents – Avoid harsh chemicals to preserve elasticity.
Do Not Iron – High heat can damage spandex fibers.

Cotton Blends

Warm Wash– Cotton blends can handle slightly warmer water.
Tumble Dry Low – If tumble drying, use a low heat setting.
Shrinkage Consideration – Be mindful of potential shrinkage with higher heat.

We recommend using sonett’s laundry liquid, and sensitive laundry liquid.

Did you know all of our laundromat locations dispense plant-based detergent is automatically into every wash at no extra charge?

Additional Care Tips

Prompt Washing – Wash your gym gear soon after a workout to prevent bacteria and odor buildup.
Turn Garments Inside Out – This protects the outer fabric from abrasion and fading.
Avoid Overloading the Washer – This ensures a thorough clean and prevents excessive stretching of fabrics.
Use a Mesh Bag – For delicate items, a mesh laundry bag can offer additional protection.

Conclusion

Your sportswear is your companion in your fitness journey. By following these care tips, you can ensure that your gym gear remains functional, fresh, and fabulous for years to come.

How to Wash Weighted Blankets

In this article, we'll walk you through the best methods for washing a weighted blanket, whether it’s machine-washable, hand-washable, or requires spot cleaning.

Time Saving Laundry Hacks for Busy Families

Time-saving laundry hacks designed to help busy families keep the laundry pile under control without sacrificing precious hours.

Laundry Tips