How to Make Your Training Clothes Fresh Again

If your workout clothes still smell sweaty even after washing, you're not alone. The synthetic fabrics in activewear tend to trap bacteria and odor, making it difficult to get them truly fresh. But don’t worry—there are ways to restore your training gear and keep it smelling clean.

Why Do Workout Clothes Smell So Bad?

Unlike cotton, which absorbs moisture and dries relatively quickly, synthetic fabrics like polyester and spandex are designed to wick sweat away from your body. However, this moisture-wicking property also creates the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive. When sweat and bacteria mix, they produce stubborn odors that get trapped in the fibers of your clothes.

Standard laundry detergents don't remove the sweat and bad odor - but Sports Detergents do!

Another factor is detergent buildup. Many standard laundry detergents contain fragrances and softening agents that mask odors temporarily but don’t remove them. Over time, residue from these detergents can accumulate in your activewear, trapping bacteria and making the smell worse. To truly eliminate odors, you need a detergent that can break down sweat, oils, and bacteria without leaving behind residue.

1. Wash the sports clothes Right Away

Leaving sweaty clothes in a pile or gym bag allows bacteria to multiply, making odors worse. If you can’t wash them immediately, hang them up to dry instead of letting them sit damp.

2. Use the Right sports clothes Detergent

Regular detergent might not be enough to break down sweat and bacteria. Use a sports-specific detergent like re:CLAIM Sport Wash, designed to remove deep-seated odors from synthetic fabrics. Unlike standard detergents, sports detergents contain enzymes that break down sweat and body oils more effectively, ensuring a deeper clean and preventing odor buildup over time.

3. Skip the Fabric Softener. for sports clothes

Fabric softeners coat your clothes, trapping bacteria and preventing proper cleaning. Instead, add white vinegar (about half a cup) to the rinse cycle to help break down odors and remove detergent buildup.

4. Wash you sports clothes in Cold Water

Hot water can set sweat and bacteria into the fabric, making odors harder to remove. A cold wash with a strong detergent is more effective for activewear, as it helps maintain the integrity of the synthetic fibers while still getting them clean.

5. Try Baking Soda or Vinegar Pre-Soak

For extra freshness, soak your sportsclothes in a mix of water and baking soda or water and vinegar for 30 minutes before washing. This helps neutralize stubborn smells by breaking down the bacteria responsible for the odor.

6. Dry your Activewear Properly

Air drying is best for workout clothes, as high heat can damage synthetic fibers and trap odors. If you must use a dryer, select a low-heat setting to protect the fabric and prevent odor retention.

7. Store Sports Clothes Correctly

Make sure your gear is completely dry before putting it away. Storing damp clothes can cause mildew and persistent odors, making it harder to remove smells even after washing.

By following these steps and using the right products, you can keep your workout clothes fresh and ready for your next training session. For the best results, try re:CLAIM Sport Wash —specially formulated to remove sweat, bacteria, and odor from activewear, leaving your gear truly clean and long-lasting!