How To Wash Workout Clothes - DIY Projects & Blog

Looking for a guide on ‘how to wash workout clothes?’ Then follow this article to learn about cleaning workout clothes or, ‘how to clean workout clothes?’

Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting out, it’s important to take care of your activewear to ensure it performs well and looks great. We’ll explore two DIY methods for washing and caring for workout clothes.

How to Wash Workout Clothes:

Method 1: Cleaning Workout Clothes With Vinegar And Baking Soda

1.1. Benefits Of Using Vinegar And Baking Soda

Natural Deodorizer: Vinegar and baking soda help eliminate odors without harsh chemicals.
Gentle on Fabric: These ingredients are gentle on fabrics, preserving the quality of your workout clothes.
Budget-Friendly: Vinegar and baking soda are cost-effective alternatives to commercial detergents.
Eco-Friendly: This method is environmentally friendly, reducing the use of harmful chemicals.

1.2. Washing Workout Clothes: Step-by-Step Instructions:

Preparation: Gather your workout clothes and separate them by color and fabric type.
Pre-Treatment: For tough stains, apply a paste of baking soda and water to the affected areas.
Washing Machine: Place your clothes in the washing machine and add a cup of white vinegar to the detergent compartment.
Baking Soda Boost: Sprinkle baking soda directly into the drum of the washing machine.
Wash Cycle: Run a cold water cycle with a gentle detergent to avoid damaging the fabrics.
Drying: Air dry your workout clothes to maintain their shape and elasticity.

Method 2: Hand Washing Workout Clothes With Lemon Juice & Salt:

2.1. Advantages Of Lemon Juice And Salt Combo

The lemon juice and salt combo offers several advantages when it comes to washing and caring for workout clothes. Here are some of the benefits:

Powerful odor removal: Lemon juice is known for its natural ability to eliminate strong odors. When combined with salt, it forms a powerful solution that can effectively remove the lingering smell from your workout clothes.
Gentle on fabrics: Lemon juice and salt are gentle on fabrics, making this method suitable for a wide range of workout clothing materials. It helps to preserve the quality and lifespan of your clothes while still providing a thorough cleaning.
Natural stain remover: Lemon juice has natural bleaching properties that can help remove stubborn stains from your workout clothes. When combined with salt, it creates a potent stain-fighting solution.
Environmentally friendly: Using lemon juice and salt as a DIY laundry solution is a more eco-friendly option compared to harsh chemical detergents. It reduces the environmental impact while still delivering effective results.

2.2. Hand Cleaning Workout Clothes: Step-by-Step Instructions:

Fill a basin or sink with warm water.
Add the juice of two lemons and a tablespoon of salt to the water.
Stir the mixture well to ensure the salt is dissolved.
Submerge your workout clothes in the solution and let them soak for at least 30 minutes.
Gently agitate the clothes in the water to help release any dirt or sweat.
After soaking, rinse the clothes thoroughly with clean water.
Squeeze out the excess water from the clothes, but avoid wringing or twisting them too harshly.
Hang the clothes to dry in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight.
Once dry, your workout clothes will be fresh, clean, and ready for your next sweat session!

How to Wash Smelly Gym Clothes In The Washer Correctly:

1. Soak And Rinse

Before tossing your workout clothes into the washing machine, it’s important to give them a thorough soak and rinse. This helps to loosen any dirt, sweat, or odor trapped in the fabric, ensuring a more effective wash. Follow these simple steps:

Fill a large basin or sink with cold water.
Add a mild detergent specially formulated for activewear.
Submerge the clothes and gently agitate them to ensure the detergent penetrates the fibers.
Allow the clothes to soak for at least 30 minutes before rinsing them thoroughly with cold water.

2. Sort Clothing And Turn Inside Out

Sorting your workout clothes before washing is crucial to prevent any damage or color transfer. Additionally, turning them inside out helps to protect the fabric and maintain their vibrant colors. Here’s what you should do:

Separate your activewear into light and dark colors to avoid color bleeding.
Turn each garment inside out to minimize friction and protect any printed designs or logos.
Place them in a mesh laundry bag to further protect delicate fabrics during the washing process.

3. Add The Correct Detergent

Choosing the right detergent is key to effectively cleaning workout clothes without causing any damage. Look for a detergent specifically designed for activewear, which typically contains enzymes to break down odor-causing bacteria and sweat. When adding the detergent:

Use the recommended amount of detergent as per the product label.
Avoid using fabric softeners or bleach, as these can break down the fabric and reduce its moisture-wicking properties.
If your clothes have stubborn odors, consider adding a half cup of white vinegar to the wash to help neutralize the smell.

4. Set The Washing Machine Cycle

Properly setting the washing machine cycle is crucial to ensure that your workout clothes are cleaned thoroughly without causing any damage. Follow these steps when setting the cycle:

Use the gentle or delicate cycle on your washing machine to minimize friction and prevent stretching of the fabric.
Opt for cold water instead of hot water, as hot water can cause shrinkage and damage to the elasticity of the fabric.
Allow for an extra rinse cycle to ensure that all detergent residue is thoroughly removed from the fabric.

5. Air-dry, When Possible

After the washing cycle is complete, it’s best to air-dry your workout clothes whenever possible. This helps to preserve the elasticity and shape of the fabric, preventing any damage that may occur in the dryer. Here are a few tips for air-drying:

Lay the clothes flat on a drying rack or a clean, dry towel to maintain their shape.
Avoid direct sunlight, as it can cause colors to fade and damage the fabric.
If using a dryer, select the lowest heat setting and remove the clothes promptly to prevent over-drying.

Additional Tips To Follow:

1. Proper Drying Techniques

After washing, it’s crucial to dry workout clothes properly to maintain their quality and longevity. Improper drying techniques can lead to fabric damage, shrinking, or even the growth of mold and mildew. To ensure your workout clothes are dried effectively, follow these tips:

Avoid using a clothes dryer: High heat from the dryer can damage the fabric fibers and cause shrinkage. Instead, opt for air drying to preserve the elasticity and shape of your workout clothes.
Hang dry in a well-ventilated area: Choose a location with good airflow to help your clothes dry faster and prevent any musty odors. Avoid direct sunlight as it can fade the colors.
Use a drying rack or hanger: Hang your workout clothes individually on a drying rack or hanger to allow proper air circulation. This method also helps prevent the clothes from developing creases or wrinkles.
Turn clothes inside out: To protect the colors and prints on your workout clothes, turn them inside out before hanging them to dry. This prevents excessive exposure to sunlight or other sources of light.

2. Stain Removal Tricks

Accidents happen, and sometimes your workout clothes may get stained during intense training sessions. Here are some effective stain removal tricks to help you keep your workout clothes looking fresh and clean:

Act quickly: The sooner you treat a stain, the better chance you have of removing it completely. As soon as you notice a stain, rinse it with cold water to prevent it from setting.
Pre-treat with a stain remover: Before washing, apply a small amount of stain remover directly to the stained area. Gently rub the fabric together to work the stain remover into the fibers.
Use natural stain removers: Lemon juice, white vinegar, and baking soda are natural alternatives to commercial stain removers. Apply a mixture of lemon juice and baking soda or a solution of white vinegar and water to the stain, and let it sit for a few minutes before washing.
Test on a small area: Before applying any stain remover, test it on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration or damage.

3. Checking The Fabric Care Labels

Ignoring fabric care labels on workout clothes is another common mistake that can lead to damage. Each fabric has specific care requirements to maintain its quality. Here’s how to avoid this mistake:

Always check the care label before washing your activewear.
Follow the recommended washing instructions such as temperature and cycle settings.
Avoid using bleach or hot water if the label advises against it.
Air dry the clothes if the label suggests avoiding the dryer.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What Is The Best Way To Wash Workout Clothes?

To wash workout clothes, use cold water and a gentle detergent. Turn clothes inside out to protect the fabric. Avoid using fabric softeners. Air-dry or use a low-heat setting in the dryer. Wash after every use to remove sweat and odor.

How Do You Wash Gym Clothes Without A Washing Machine?

To wash gym clothes without a washing machine, soak them in warm water and detergent. Agitate the clothes and let them soak for 30 minutes. Then, scrub the clothes gently and rinse thoroughly. Hang them to dry in a well-ventilated area.

How To Clean Sweat Clothes?

To clean sweat clothes, first pre-treat any stains with a stain remover. Then, wash the clothes in cold water with a laundry detergent. Avoid using fabric softeners or bleach. Hang or lay the clothes flat to dry, and avoid using a dryer if possible.

How Can I Wash My Work Clothes At Home?

To wash work clothes at home, separate colors, use appropriate detergent, wash on correct settings, air dry or tumble dry low.

How Often Should I Wash My Workout Clothes?

It’s best to wash them after every use to remove sweat and bacteria buildup.

Conclusion:

Keeping your workout clothes fresh and clean is essential for their longevity and your comfort. Following the DIY methods outlined in this blog post, you can easily maintain your activewear without harsh chemicals. Remember, proper care not only extends the life of your clothes but also ensures a pleasant workout experience.

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