Staying active through regular workouts is essential for physical and mental well-being. Proper workout clothes enhance performance and boost motivation to hit the gym or trail. However, proper care is crucial to maximize their lifespan and effectiveness.

Washing workout clothes correctly keeps them fresh, functional, and odor-free. Neglecting their maintenance can lead to wear and tear, affecting comfort and style. This guide will reveal the best practices for washing and caring for workout clothes, ensuring they stay in top shape so you can focus on what matters most—your fitness journey!

Washing Tips for Workout Gear

Wondering how to wash workout clothes properly? With these helpful tips, you can keep your cotton, polyester, and nylon garments in top shape. 

Cotton

When washing cotton material, it's best to use cold or warm water to prevent shrinking and fading, as hot water can cause cotton to shrink. Regular detergent is suitable for cleaning cotton training clothes, and for maintaining the brightness of whites, you can use a detergent with bleach alternatives.

Polyester

For polyester material, it's important to use cold water to help maintain the fabric’s integrity and color. Turning garments inside out can help protect the outer surface. Additionally, it's best to use a mild detergent and avoid fabric softeners, as they can leave a residue that reduces the fabric’s moisture-wicking properties.

Nylon

Wash nylon workout clothing in cold water to prevent damage and maintain elasticity. Use a gentle cycle and a mild detergent to clean the fabric effectively while avoiding bleach, which can weaken the fibers.

Spandex

When washing spandex workout clothing, it's important to use cold water to avoid damaging the fabric and help maintain its stretchiness. Using a mild detergent and a gentle cycle will effectively clean the spandex material without compromising its elasticity. Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners, as they can break down the fibers and reduce the garment's lifespan.

Drying Workout Clothes

When drying gym clothes for men and women's activewear, special care is needed to maintain their performance and longevity. Here are the best methods and things to avoid:

Drying Dos:

• Air Drying

Air drying is gentle on the fabric, helps maintain elasticity, and prevents damage from high heat. It also helps reduce static cling. Hang your workout clothes on a drying rack or clothesline in a well-ventilated area. Ensure they are spread out to allow air to circulate.

• Low Heat Drying

Low heat minimizes the risk of shrinking, melting, or damaging the fabric. It’s quicker than air drying but still gentle enough to protect your workout clothes.

If you prefer using a dryer, select the low heat or delicate setting. Place the workout clothes for men and women in the dryer with similar fabrics to avoid friction.

Drying Don’ts:

• High Heat

Avoid using high heat settings in the dryer. High temperatures can cause synthetic fabrics to shrink, lose their shape, or even melt.

• Fabric Softeners

Do not use fabric softeners or dryer sheets. They can leave a residue that clogs the fabric’s pores, reducing its moisture-wicking properties.

• Direct Sunlight

Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause colors to fade and weaken the fabric. If air drying outside, choose a shaded area.

• Overloading the Dryer

Avoid overloading the dryer as it can lead to uneven drying and increased friction, damaging the fabric.

Storage Tips to Keep Workout Clothes Fresh

• Wash Before Storing: Always clean your workout attire before storage. Sweat and bacteria can cause bad smells and break down the fabric over time.  

• Dry Thoroughly: Ensure the training clothes are completely dry before putting them away. Moisture can attract mold and mildew, causing damage and undesirable odors.

• Fold or Hang: Depending on the type, either fold or hang your clothes. For leggings and sports bras, folding works well, while hanging is better for tops and jackets to keep their shape.

• Use Breathable Storage: Choose a breathable fabric bag or a well-ventilated drawer. Avoid plastic bags, which can trap moisture and invite mildew.

• Avoid Sunlight: Keep your clothes in a cool, dark area. Extended sunlight can fade colors and weaken fabrics.

• Organize by Activity: If you have workout clothes for women and men for various exercises, like running or yoga, sort them by activity. This makes it easier to find what you need and helps protect more delicate pieces.

Proper storage of workout gear, typically made from sensitive synthetic materials like polyester and nylon, helps maintain its condition by protecting it from moisture, sunlight, and friction. Correct storage also preserves freshness and prevents odors, which is crucial for sweat-wicking fabrics. Additionally, thoughtful folding and organization reduce wear and tear, preventing stretching, snagging, and other damage that can occur from careless handling or overcrowded drawers.

Workout Gear from Sports Central

Explore Sports Central for the best workout gear from leading sportswear brands. Enhance your exercise experience with high-performance, stylish, and durable equipment for optimal comfort and results.

	Designed for intense workouts, the Adidas Men Gym Heat Tee offers unrestricted movement with raglan sleeves and side slits. This gym t-shirt features AEROREADY dryness technology and mesh underarm panels for added breathability. Made from 100% recycled polyester, it’s a sustainable choice, helping to combat plastic waste.
	The Reebok Men Strength Athlete Tee is built for intense workouts, offering a lightweight, stretchy fit that allows full range of motion. Made from 65% recycled polyester and 35% cotton, it features Speedwick technology to keep you cool and dry, ergonomic side seams for comfort, and MOTIONFRESH technology to eliminate odors. Perfect for your strength routines.
	The Puma Women Heather Performance Tee is your go-to for any workout. It features flat-lock seams for comfort and PUMA's signature dryCELL technology, which keeps you dry and focused during exercise. The 100% polyester mesh fabric ensures breathability and comfort.
	The New Balance Women Pace Bra provides medium-impact support with NB DRYx technology for quick moisture-wicking. Featuring a mesh T-back, compression fit, and stabilized front straps, it ensures comfort and a secure, no-bounce experience during workouts. The elastic band is finished with a refreshed New Balance logo for a stylish touch.
	The Under Armour Men Vanish Energy Tank, featuring UA RUSH™ infrared technology, reflects your body's energy to enhance performance and recovery. This tank wicks sweat quickly, dries fast, and offers 4-way stretch for optimal movement. A side-vent hem and odor control technology ensures comfort and freshness throughout your workout.
	Experience ultimate comfort and support with the Skechers Women GO FLEX RIB™ FL HW Legging. These leggings feature a high-waisted design crafted from a moisture-wicking, quick-drying nylon and spandex blend. With exterior side pockets and a double-layer compression waistband, they offer a perfect blend of style and functionality for your workouts. Check out more of Sports Central’s tights and leggings collection!
	The Reebok Men Training Essentials Utility Shorts offer a comfortable sale fit, made from 100% nylon plain weave for durability during training. Designed for performance, these shorts feature a drawcord on an elastic waist for a secure fit, convenient side pockets, and a back patch pocket for added storage.
	Upgrade your workout wardrobe with the Adidas Women Z.N.E. Short. These training shorts are designed for flexibility and comfort and feature a loose fit, high-rise waist, and soft four-way stretch fabric. AEROREADY technology keeps you dry, and the concealed elastic waist and multiple zip pockets ensure convenience and style during your training sessions.
	adidas 3-Stripes Cushioned Crew Socks are designed for comfort and performance in every workout. These crew-length socks provide cushioning in high-pressure areas like the heels and toes and offer arch support to keep you focused. Made from 62% cotton and 36% recycled polyester, they are part of Adidas’s commitment to sustainability. Each pack includes three pairs featuring linked toe seams and cushioned soles.
	The adidas Classic Cotton Bucket Hat combines style and functionality, offering sun protection with a sporty design. Crafted from durable cotton ripstop fabric, it features a mesh sweatband for comfort. The hat includes an embroidered logo and is made with Better Cotton to support sustainable farming practices.

Maintaining your gym clothes for women is crucial for performance and longevity. Regular washing on a gentle cycle, avoiding fabric softeners, and air-drying will keep them fresh. Investing in high-quality pieces from Sports Central ensures durability and comfort during every workout.   

Upgrade your fitness journey—visit Sports Central stores near you or browse for workout clothes and accessories online today! Discover premium workout clothing that enhances your experience and reflects your style.