Finding the right workout clothes that fit your style and make you feel confident as you hit the gym can be a challenge. But after you’ve invested in your perfect pieces, it’s important to take proper care of them in order to extend their life. Here’s your guide to keeping your workout clothes looking and feeling their best.
Wash Your Clothes Immediately After Exercise
Sweat and dirt can damage fabric, so it’s important to wash your clothes as soon as possible after exercising. This will help keep them looking and smelling fresh. If you can’t wash them right away, at least hang them up or lay them flat to dry. This will help prevent stains from setting in.
Wash your clothes on a cold setting, as hot water can cause them to shrink. Avoid using fabric softener, as it can dull the color of your clothes and reduce their water-wicking capabilities. Also, try to avoid washing them with other items that may contain metal such as zippers, buttons, and rivets. These can damage the fabric and reduce the life of your clothes.
Choose the Right Detergent
Choose a detergent that’s designed specifically for workout clothes. These detergents are designed to be more gentle on the fabric while still providing a deep clean. Additionally, they often have anti-odor and anti-microbial properties that can help keep your clothes smelling fresh.
If you’re looking for a more natural option, consider using a mild soap such as baby shampoo or castile soap. These are both gentle on the fabric, but be sure to use a small amount and rinse thoroughly.
Hang or Lay Flat to Dry
Avoid using a dryer to dry your clothes as the high heat can cause them to shrink. Instead, hang them up or lay them flat to dry. This will help to preserve the shape and color of your clothes. If you do need to use the dryer, be sure to set it to the lowest heat setting.
Also, avoid hanging your clothes in direct sunlight as this can cause them to fade. If you must hang them outside, be sure to keep them in the shade.
Store Clothes Properly
When you’re not wearing your clothes, it’s important to store them properly. This will help to keep them looking and feeling their best. Hang them up or fold them and store them in a drawer or closet. Avoid storing them in a plastic bag as this can trap moisture and cause them to develop mildew.
Also, keep your clothes stored away from direct sunlight as this can cause them to fade and lose their shape. Additionally, avoid storing them in damp places such as a bathroom or laundry room as this can cause them to develop mold and mildew.
Conclusion
Taking proper care of your workout clothes is essential for extending their life and keeping them looking and feeling their best. Be sure to wash them immediately after exercising and choose the right detergent. Additionally, hang or lay them flat to dry and store them properly. With just a few simple steps, you can keep your clothes looking and feeling their best for years to come.
