Experts point out the most common mistake many people make when washing gym clothes: “It’s not a good idea”
Pre-ventilation allows sweat to evaporate and reduces bacterial growth. Here are a few tips to get your gym clothes smelling clean and fresh.
When people leave the gym, one of the first things they notice is the stubborn smell that clings to their workout clothes after hours of sweating. So the moment they get home, many toss those damp, smelly items straight into the laundry basket — or directly into the washing machine. According to experts, that’s a very common mistake, as highlighted in a report from the Daily Mail.
“While you might be tempted to throw all your sweaty, smelly workout clothes straight into the hamper after exercising, it’s not a good idea,” explains researcher Rebecca Jakeman.
Specialists warn that doing this can actually trap odors, causing clothes to smell bad even after a full wash cycle. The better approach is to let your gear “breathe” before washing it.
A not‑so‑pleasant cocktail
“If you don’t allow sweat to evaporate, bacteria and odors can linger, creating a pretty unpleasant cocktail that even a powerful washing machine may struggle to remove,” Jakeman adds.
She recommends airing out workout clothes for several hours before washing — either outside or indoors with good ventilation.
Additional tips include turning shirts inside out before tossing them in the washer so the areas that absorb the most sweat come into direct contact with water and detergent, improving the cleaning process.
Experts also suggest washing similar fabrics together — for example, cotton T‑shirts with towels, and synthetic leggings with athletic shorts. “Remember that workout gear is more delicate than many other fabrics, so mixing it with heavier items can lead to snags, tears, and other damage,” she explains.
Jakeman also advises skipping fabric softener when washing athletic wear and choosing the right settings and temperatures. The ideal wash temperature is around 86°F (30°C), though even 68°F (20°C) can work in most cases.
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