Proper care is key to extending the life of your sports clothing and ensuring it always performs at its peak. Whether you are a casual gym-goer or a professional athlete, knowing how to wash your activewear correctly will not only preserve the quality of the fabric but also keep you feeling fresh and comfortable.ย 

In this blog, we have shared some expert tips to help you care for your sportswear, ensuring your gear stays in top condition.

Tip 1: Wash Sportswear Separately

Keep your sports clothing separate from your regular laundry. Sportswear is typically made from high-performance fabrics that are designed to wick away moisture and withstand intense physical activity. Mixing these fabrics with your everyday clothes can cause damage to both. For example, rough fabrics like denim can cause pilling on the smooth surfaces of your workout gear, while zippers or buttons from other garments can snag delicate fabrics.

By washing your sportswear separately, you can avoid unnecessary wear and tear, ensuring your gear stays in great shape. It also helps prevent odour transfer, especially if your sportswear is particularly sweaty after a tough workout session.

Tip 2: Wash Often

Due to the nature of activewear, itโ€™s important to wash it regularly, even after just one use. The moisture-wicking fabrics used in workout gear are excellent at drawing sweat away from your body, but they can quickly become a breeding ground for bacteria if not cleaned properly. Over time, these bacteria can cause unpleasant odours that are difficult to remove, no matter how many times you wash the garment later.

Washing your custom apparel in Melbourne frequently will not only keep it smelling fresh but will also prevent the build-up of sweat, dirt, and body oils that can degrade the fabric. Make it a habit to wash your activewear after every session to maintain hygiene and prolong its lifespan.

Tip 3: Do Not Wash at a High Temperature

Many people assume that washing clothes at a higher temperature is better for removing dirt and bacteria. However, when it comes to sports gear, this is not the case. Most sportswear fabrics, especially those made from synthetic materials, can be damaged by hot water. Washing at high temperatures can cause the fibres to break down, leading to a loss of elasticity and shape.

Instead, opt for a cold or warm water wash. Most sports clothing is designed to be washed at temperatures between 30-40ยฐC. This will still effectively clean your garments without causing any damage. Always check the care label on your sportswear for specific washing instructions.

Tip 4: Ensure the Wash Setting Is Appropriate

Choosing the right wash setting is crucial. Many washing machines now come with a dedicated sports or activewear cycle, which is designed to handle high-performance fabrics gently yet effectively. If your machine doesnโ€™t have this option, a gentle cycle is usually the best alternative.

Itโ€™s also a good idea to avoid tumble drying sportswear, as the heat can damage synthetic fabrics and affect the fit. Instead, lay your sports clothing flat to dry or hang it up in a well-ventilated area. This will help it maintain its shape and prevent shrinkage.

Tip 5: Do Not Use Aggressive Detergents

While it might be tempting to use strong detergents to get rid of sweat and odours, this can do more harm than good. Harsh detergents can break down the fabric of your sportswear over time, leading to a loss of performance features such as moisture-wicking or stretch.

Instead, opt for a mild, non-bio detergent that is suitable for delicate fabrics. You can also use specialist detergents designed specifically for activewear, which are gentle on fabrics but tough on sweat and odours. Avoid using fabric softeners, as these can coat the fibres of your sportswear and reduce its moisture-wicking abilities.

Bonus Tip: Do Not Iron

Sports clothing is designed to be flexible and stretchy, and ironing can compromise this. High heat from an iron can cause synthetic fibres to melt or lose their shape, leaving your activewear looking less than perfect. Fortunately, most sportswear is made from wrinkle-resistant materials, so ironing them is unnecessary. If you do find some wrinkles after washing, hanging your garments up to dry usually takes care of them.

Conclusion

Looking after your sportswear properly doesnโ€™t have to be complicated. Following these expert tips ensures that your gear lasts longer, performs better, and stays fresh after every workout. Remember to wash often and separately, use cold water, choose the appropriate wash setting, and avoid aggressive detergents.

Taking good care of your custom apparel in Melbourne will keep you looking and feeling your best during every workout session. A little attention to detail can make a big difference in the lifespan and performance of your favourite gear.ย 

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