Investing in high-quality activewear is only half the battle—proper care is essential to maintaining its performance, fit, and longevity. With the right washing and storage habits, you can extend the life of your favorite pieces, saving money and reducing waste. Here’s how to keep your activewear in top condition.

1. Wash with Care 🧼

• Turn Inside Out: Washing your activewear inside out helps protect the fabric’s surface and preserve any printed or textured details.

• Use Cold Water: Hot water can break down elastic fibers, causing your pieces to lose their shape and stretch out over time.

• Choose a Gentle Detergent: Harsh chemicals can degrade performance fabrics. Opt for mild, eco-friendly detergents that effectively clean without damaging the material.

• Skip Fabric Softener: Fabric softeners coat synthetic fibers, reducing breathability and moisture-wicking properties.

• Use a Mesh Bag: Washing leggings, sports bras, and delicate items in a mesh laundry bag minimizes friction and extends their lifespan.

2. Air Dry Whenever Possible

• Avoid the Dryer: High heat weakens fibers and can cause shrinkage. Instead, lay your activewear flat or hang it to dry.

• Dry in the Shade: Direct sunlight can fade colors and degrade elasticity over time.

• Keep Air Circulating: Ensure proper airflow to prevent mildew and unwanted odors.

3. Store Properly

• Fold, Don’t Hang: Hanging stretchy fabrics can lead to misshapen garments. Fold your activewear neatly in a drawer instead.

• Keep It Dry: Store in a well-ventilated area to prevent trapped moisture, which can cause odors or mildew.

• Separate Workout Gear: Keeping sweaty clothes separate from clean ones prevents bacteria transfer and unwanted smells.

4. Address Odors & Stains Promptly

• Pre-Treat Sweat Stains: Apply a mixture of baking soda and water to affected areas before washing.

• Use Vinegar for Odor Removal: Soaking activewear in a mixture of water and white vinegar helps eliminate persistent odors naturally.

• Avoid Overwashing: Frequent washing can wear down fabrics. If your gear isn’t visibly dirty, consider airing it out instead.

5. Be Mindful of Wear and Tear

• Rotate Your Pieces: Wearing the same leggings or sports bra daily leads to quicker breakdown. Rotate your activewear to distribute wear evenly.

• Check for Damage: Loose threads or stretched seams can be repaired early to prevent complete failure.

• Follow Brand Care Instructions: Different fabrics have specific care needs—always check labels for best practices.

By following these simple care tips, you can keep your activewear looking and performing like new for more than 8,760 hours 😉. Not only does this protect your investment, but it also aligns with sustainable fashion choices, reducing waste and unnecessary consumption.