Take Care - Activewear Care Guide

When you have found your favorite sportswear pieces you’ll want to keep them in good condition as long as possible. By caring for your activewear properly you can increase their lifetime - good for the planet and good for your wallet.  In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best practices for caring for your sportswear so you can get the most out of each piece.

First things first, always check the care label on your sportswear. Different materials require different methods of washing and drying. Paying attention to these instructions ensures your clothes maintain their elasticity, color, and all special performance properties.

Turning your sportswear inside out before washing helps protect the outer fabric and any printed logos or designs. Since most of the sweat and oils accumulate on the inside, this method also allows for a more effective clean. Plus, it reduces friction between garments, helping prevent pilling or wear and tear.

3. Wash cold
High-performance fabrics used in sportswear, such as polyamide,  elastane, and polyester, can lose their elasticity in hot water, check the care label in most cases 30 degrees is the best choice for training gear, but if the care instruction allows it 40 degrees is also good, especially if the clothes have gotten very sweaty or visibly dirty. Choosing a cooler temperature saves energy and is also better for the planet and your energy bill.

4. Don’t use fabric softener
Fabric softeners can clog the fibers of moisture-wicking fabrics, reducing their ability to breathe and wick sweat away from your body. This can make your workout gear feel less comfortable and reduce its effectiveness.  Fabric softener can also destroy the elastane in fabric anc cause the fabric to start pilling.

Heavy-duty detergents are often too harsh for delicate sports fabrics. They can damage the fibers or strip the garments of their performance features, like moisture-wicking capabilities. Choose a detergent that’s free from harsh chemicals and fragrances to maintain the integrity of your sportswear.

The heat from dryers can be too intense for performance fabrics, leading to shrinking, stretching,melting or loss of elasticity. Instead, air dry your sportswear by hanging it up or laying it flat in a well ventilated area. Since performance wear often have quick-dry capabilities, they will dry fast in normal room temperature.

7. Avoid ironing 
Most sportswear fabrics do not require ironing, as they’re designed to resist wrinkles. Applying heat from an iron can melt or damage the synthetic fibers in your workout clothes. If ironing is absolutely necessary, use a low heat setting and place a cloth between the iron and the garment.

8. Store Properly

Proper storage is just as important as washing and drying. Make sure your sportswear is completely dry before storing to prevent mildew or unpleasant odors. Keep your gear in a cool, dry place, and avoid leaving it in your gym bag or locker for long periods of time.

By following these simple care tips, you can ensure that your sportswear stays in top shape, providing you with the comfort, performance, and style you need for every workout. Treat your gear right, and it will continue to support you in achieving your fitness goals for a long time to come!