Active wear plays a big role in our fitness routines. We rely on these garments to keep us comfortable during workouts, whether it's at the gym, running, or just staying active throughout the day. However, with all the sweat and strain, active wear can easily start to smell and wear out if not cared for properly.

Keeping your active wear fresh doesn’t have to be a complicated task. Simple practices can extend the life of your clothes and keep them smelling good. One of the most important steps is washing them correctly. Using the right methods helps to maintain their quality and functionality.

Storing active wear properly is another key element. How you handle your clothes between workouts can affect their freshness and longevity. Following some basic storage tips can make a big difference.

Also, odours can be a common issue with active wear. Learning some clever tricks can help you prevent and eliminate any unwanted smells. Regular maintenance between wears can also keep your gear in good shape for much longer. Let's dive into these easy and practical tips to keep your active wear fresh and ready for action.

Proper Washing Techniques to Extend Wear

Washing your active wear correctly is crucial to keep it looking and functioning its best. First and foremost, always check the care labels on your clothes. These labels provide important instructions on how to wash the garments without damaging them.

• Turn Clothes Inside Out: Before washing, turn your active wear inside out. This helps protect the outer fabric and reduces pilling. It also allows the detergent to reach the areas where sweat and oils build up.
• Use Cold Water: Washing active wear in cold water preserves the fabric's elasticity and colour. Hot water can break down the fibres and cause fading. Cold water also helps prevent shrinkage, ensuring your clothes maintain their fit.
• Choose Mild Detergents: Use a mild detergent that’s designed for active wear. Harsh detergents can be too aggressive and damage the fabric. Avoid using fabric softeners, as they can clog the moisture-wicking properties and make clothes less breathable.
• Gentle Cycle: Wash your active wear on a gentle cycle to reduce friction and wear and tear. The delicate cycle ensures that your clothes are cleaned without being subjected to rough agitation.
• Air Dry: Always air dry your active wear. Heat from dryers can break down synthetic fibres and cause clothes to lose their shape. Hang your clothes or lay them flat to dry to extend their lifespan.

Following these proper washing techniques can help your active wear stay fresh, retain its shape, and last longer.

Storing Active Wear for Long-Term Freshness

Storing your active wear properly between uses is just as important as washing it correctly. Good storage habits can keep your clothes fresh and ready for your next workout.

• Let Clothes Dry Before Storing: After wearing your active wear, make sure the clothes are completely dry before putting them away. Damp clothes can develop odours and mildew. Hang them up for a bit before storing them in your closet or drawer.
• Use Breathable Storage Containers: Avoid storing your active wear in airtight containers. Instead, use breathable fabric bins or mesh bags. These allow air to circulate and prevent moisture build-up, keeping your clothes smelling fresh.
• Separate Active Wear: Store your active wear separately from your other clothing. This helps keep them in better condition and makes them easier to find. Consider having a designated space or drawer just for your workout clothes.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Don’t cram too many pieces of clothing into one drawer or bin. Overcrowding causes wrinkles and can trap moisture, leading to bad smells. Give your active wear some space to breathe.
• Freshening Products: Consider using odour-absorbing bags or packets. Activated charcoal or silica gel packets can help keep your storage area dry and fresh. These products absorb excess moisture and prevent odours from developing.

By following these storage tips, you can keep your active wear clean, fresh, and ready for your next workout session. Proper storage helps maintain the quality and longevity of your clothing.

Simple Tips to Prevent and Remove Odours

Bad smells can ruin even the best active wear. Fortunately, there are easy ways to prevent and remove odours from your workout clothes. Following some simple tips can keep your gear smelling fresh.

• Pre-Soak in Vinegar: Before washing, soak your active wear in a mixture of water and white vinegar for about 30 minutes. Vinegar helps break down bacteria and remove odours. Use about one cup of vinegar for a large basin of water.
• Use Baking Soda: For stubborn smells, add half a cup of baking soda to your wash. Baking soda neutralizes odours and helps freshen up your clothes. You can also make a paste with baking soda and water to treat particularly smelly areas before washing.
• Avoid Fabric Softener: Fabric softeners can trap odours in synthetic fabrics and reduce the fabric’s ability to breathe. Instead, use a small amount of white vinegar in the rinse cycle to soften clothes and remove smells.
• Dry in Fresh Air: Whenever possible, dry your active wear outside in fresh air. The sunlight and breeze help eliminate odours naturally. Indoor air drying near an open window can also work well.
• Essential Oils: Adding a few drops of essential oils like tea tree or lavender to your wash can help keep your clothes smelling good. These oils have natural antibacterial properties and leave a pleasant scent.

These simple tips help prevent and remove odours, making your active wear feel fresh and ready for your next workout.

Quick Fixes and Maintenance Between Wears

Between full washes, there are quick fixes and maintenance tricks to keep your active wear fresh. These easy steps can extend the time between washes and maintain the quality of your clothes.

• Spot Clean: For small spots or marks, use a damp cloth with a bit of mild detergent to clean the area. Spot cleaning helps keep your active wear looking neat without a full wash.
• Air Out: After using your active wear, hang it up in a well-ventilated area to air out. This helps evaporate sweat and reduce odours. Avoid leaving sweaty clothes in a gym bag or hamper for too long.
• Quick Freshening Sprays: Use a fabric freshening spray designed for active wear. These sprays kill bacteria and leave a fresh scent. They are great for a quick refresh after light workouts.
• Rotate Clothes: Rotate your active wear, allowing each piece time to rest and air out between uses. Having multiple sets of workout clothes helps prevent overuse and extends the life of each piece.
• Freezer Deodorizing: For strong odours, place your active wear in a sealed plastic bag and put it in the freezer overnight. The cold kills bacteria and neutralizes smells, giving your clothes a quick odour reset.

These quick fixes and maintenance tips keep your active wear fresh between washes and help maintain its quality.

Conclusion

Keeping your active wear fresh doesn't have to be hard. Simple practices like proper washing, good storage habits, and quick maintenance tricks make a big difference. Taking care of your workout clothes not only keeps them smelling good but also extends their life and functionality. Comfortable, fresh active wear helps you enjoy your workouts more and feel confident at the gym.

For great options in compression gear, braces, and active sportswear, contact SPRINGBOK today. Our high-quality products are designed to support your active lifestyle and keep you performing at your best. Browse our collection now at our activewear shop and find the perfect gear to complement your fitness journey!