Maintaining fitness clothing is essential so that it remains in perfect condition for longer. After all, this type of sportswear is an investment that you want to amortize as much as possible, right? Below, we offer you the main keys to help you take care of your sports equipment.
How to care for sports clothing?
The fabrics and materials used in the production of each piece of clothing determine the care they will need. This applies to all types of clothing, such as jeans, a leather jacket or simple socks.
In the case of gym clothing, these garments are consciously created to guarantee the comfort of those who wear them, facilitate movement, promote breathability and prevent chafing. Therefore, it is necessary to take good care of it so that it does not lose these properties and resists the passage of time without major problems.
In this sense, washing is perhaps the most critical process. Therefore, the best thing you can do is always check the instructions given by the manufacturer in this regard, either on the label itself or on the website where you purchased said garment. Without a doubt, this is the best option to know exactly what care you should provide to the clothes you are wearing.
However, there are certain general aspects that you should consider so that the maintenance of fitness clothing is adequate. This way, neither the functionality nor the appearance of your sports clothing will deteriorate . Take note!
1. Hurry up to wash it
After exercising, bacteria from sweat settle on clothing, creating a breeding ground that, over time, will cause bad odor. For this reason, it is important that you wash it as soon as possible, especially if you have done a very intense exercise routine and have sweated excessively. Otherwise, it will be much more difficult to remove stains and bad odor.
If you don't clean the garment immediately after taking it off, air it to dry the sweat . Remember that this substance that our body emits contains salts and ammonia that can destroy the internal fibers of the tissue.
2. Better by hand
While it is true that fitness clothing is designed to be more durable and resistant, washing machines greatly accelerate wear and tear. Therefore, it is best to always choose to wash all your clothes by hand.
Can't or want to do it this way? Then, you should use the washing machine, but make sure to use the program for sports clothes. If yours does not have one, just use a delicate cycle at a temperature no higher than 30°C and, of course, skip the spin cycle.
Temperatures above 30°C can cause sweat stains to become permanent. In addition, cold water prevents fabrics from losing their color and prevents shrinkage.
3. Always separately
We have already talked about the fact that it is better to wash by hand to maintain fitness garments . However, if you use the washing machine, you must take special care and wash these pieces of clothing separately . It doesn't matter if they are a similar color to other clothes in your closet, remember to separate sports clothes from the rest of your laundry. This is key to ensuring that the colors do not transfer and stain them. Another tip that we recommend you put into practice is to wash clothes inside out.
If it is not possible for you to use a washing machine just for gym clothes , try putting them in a mesh bag. With this element, the clothes will be separated and protected from the rest, as well as from the wear and tear caused by the washing machine drum.
4. Be careful with cleaning products
When cleaning clothes , pay attention to the products you use for this purpose. In this sense, there are two types that are best avoided at all costs:
- Whiteners . These are products that tend to be very corrosive, especially on garments made of delicate fibers, such as sports equipment. Accelerating wear or even creating holes are some of its effects on clothing.
- Softeners . Good quality sportswear is already soft. Therefore, if you use fabric softeners, the only thing you will do is damage the fabric and cause it to lose elasticity.
To wash properly, use mild, hypoallergenic detergents or soaps . On the market, there are products designed specifically for this, as they are very effective in removing stains and odors thanks to their degreasing power.
Likewise, you should monitor the amount to use . Keep in mind that adding more detergent does not make the clothes come out cleaner. In that sense, excess can have the opposite effect to what you are looking for, since the accumulation of soap residue causes bad odors to become trapped in the clothes.
5. Air dry
For drying, the ideal is to hang them and let them dry little by little. As with the washing machine, the dryer subjects fabrics to conditions that are harmful. Not only does rubbing damage the fabrics, but we must also highlight the high temperatures that this appliance applies for drying.
Once dry, your clothes would be ready to be worn again. Ironing is not part of the maintenance of fitness clothing . This action is not necessary, since most are designed to prevent wrinkles. Additionally, it is important to note that there are microfibers that can melt at low temperatures.
As you have seen throughout this article,maintaining fitness clothing is quite simple. You just have to know its particularities to provide optimal cleaning and care. Thanks to these tips, you will be ready to get the most out of your sports equipment and keep it for much longer.
