Sweat stains and odours rank among the toughest laundry problems, and a regular wash cycle does not always solve them. Cleaning experts say athletic wear requires a different approach from everyday clothing, and a few simple habits can keep workout gear smelling fresh.
Wash fast, turn inside out
The most common mistake, according to experts cited by Real Simple, is leaving sweaty clothes unwashed. The longer athletic wear sits in a laundry basket, the deeper the dirt and odour embed into the fabric. Specialists recommend washing sportswear as soon as possible, ideally the same day.
If an immediate wash is not possible, experts advise drying the item in the sun rather than tossing it damp into a basket.
Before washing, turn each garment inside out so detergent can better reach soiled areas. Fasten all velcro and zippers, remove bra inserts, and close any pockets.
Vinegar, cold water, no fabric softener
Experts recommend adding half a cup of vinegar directly into the drum alongside a detergent formulated for tough stains. They caution against exceeding the recommended detergent dose, as excess residue can reduce a fabric’s breathability.
Fabric softener should be skipped entirely for athletic wear, as it also impairs breathability. Wash in cold or cool water. Hot water sets sweat odour and can shrink performance fabrics.
After washing, air-dry sportswear outdoors rather than using a tumble dryer.
Quick fixes without a wash
When a full wash is not immediately possible, experts suggest spraying the affected area with a diluted vinegar solution, made by mixing one tablespoon of vinegar with a glass of water, or dabbing it with a cotton pad soaked in the mixture. Diluted vodka or rubbing alcohol, mixed in equal parts with water and sprayed on, is offered as a second option.
These methods destroy some odour-causing bacteria but do not replace proper laundering, and experts recommend putting the item in the machine at the first opportunity.
