After a grueling workout, do you sink into your post-exercise haze and just leave your sweaty workout clothes in your gym bag or laundry basket? We’re not judging if you do, but we want to be honest, too – it’s a bad practice! Those clothes, soaked with sweat, are a breeding ground for bacteria and odors, and the longer they sit, the harder it becomes to clean them properly.
If you’re too tired or pressed for time to properly wash your gym clothes, you might want to consider using a wash and fold service. Keep reading to learn just how beneficial this service can be for your workout gear, and we’ll also break down all the extra perks that come with it.
Should You Wash Gym Clothes Separately from Other Clothing?
It’s not mandatory to wear workout clothes when exercising, but wearing them allows you to perform exercises with greater comfort and efficiency. However, many people don’t realize these specialized garments require different care than regular clothing. So, should you toss those gym clothes in with your regular laundry? Probably not and here’s why:1. Gym Clothes Have Unique Fabric Needs
Gym clothes are made from performance fabrics designed to handle sweat, stretching, and intense movement. This is what sets them apart from regular shirts, blouses, and jeans. Workout clothes typically feature moisture-wicking materials that pull sweat away from your skin, keeping you cool and dry. These materials need a more delicate washing cycle than your regular clothing items.2. Gym Clothes Hold Bacteria and Odor
Gym clothes are notorious for holding onto sweat and bacteria, which can lead to some serious odor issues. Washing these items separately helps contain that odor and prevents it from transferring to your other clothes. Regular clothing doesn’t have the same exposure to sweat, and throwing your gym gear in with your daily wear can spread bacteria.3. Gym Clothes Require Specific Washing Machine Settings
Gym clothes, because of their technical fabrics, often require different washing machine settings than regular clothes. You might need a cool wash cycle for your performance gear, but your regular clothing, like a cotton shirt or blouse, could benefit from warmer water and a more thorough cycle.4. Gym Clothes Can Wear Out Prematurely
Heavier fabrics such as jeans, towels, or jackets can be rough on lighter gym clothes when washed together. The constant rubbing can weaken the fibers in your workout gear, making them lose their shape or elasticity. Keeping your gym clothes in a separate load ensures they don’t get worn out prematurely from friction with heavier items.Can A Wash and Fold Service Effectively Handle Sweaty Gym Clothes?
Sweat soaked gym clothes require a different cleaning approach than your average laundry load, that’s for sure. As such, you might wonder if a wash and fold service is up to the task of getting your workout gear truly clean. Spoiler alert: it is, and here’s why!
1st Reason: Gym Clothes Are Treated with Specialized Detergents
A professional wash and fold service uses detergents specifically designed to eliminate odors and bacteria, which are common in gym clothes. These powerful cleaners are far more effective than the standard detergent you use at home, ensuring your clothes come out fresh and sanitized after each wash. They also use the proper balance of detergent, avoiding residue that can affect the fabric’s performance.
2nd Reason: Gym Clothes Are Washed at the Optimal Temperature
Washing gym clothes requires just the right temperature—hot enough to kill bacteria but cool enough to protect the fabric. Professionals at laundry services know exactly how to balance these needs. They set the washing machine to the correct temperature for your performance fabrics, ensuring odors and sweat are eliminated without damaging the elasticity or moisture-wicking properties of your workout gear.
3rd Reason: Gym Clothes Are Folded, Packaged, and Delivered for Your Convenience
After the cleaning process, your gym clothes are not only washed, but they’re also professionally folded and packaged, ready for you to grab and go. This makes life a lot easier, especially if you have a busy workout schedule. You can skip the hassle of folding and sorting, allowing you to focus more on your fitness routine.
4th Reason: Gym Clothes Are Prone to Wear and Tear—Professionals Extend Their Lifespan
The more you work out, the more wear and tear your gym clothes endure. Professionals at a wash and fold service are experts in fabric care, meaning they handle your gym clothes in a way that helps them maintain their shape and durability over time. By avoiding over washing or harsh cycles, laundry service professionals ensure your gear stays in top condition for longer.
Quick Tips for Washing Gym Clothes at Home
If you prefer to tackle your gym clothes at home, there are a few important steps you can take to make sure they stay fresh and last longer. Here are some quick and easy tips to help you care for your workout gear:
- Turn Them Inside Out: Sweat, bacteria, and body oils tend to accumulate on the inside of your gym clothes, so make sure to turn them inside out before washing. This helps the detergent reach the areas that need the most attention and prevents wear on the outer layer.
- Use Cold Water: Gym clothes are made from delicate fabrics that can break down if exposed to too much heat. Washing them in cold water not only helps preserve the material but also keeps colors from fading over time.
- Skip the Fabric Softener: Fabric softener may seem like a good idea, but it can actually clog the pores of performance fabrics, reducing their ability to wick away sweat. Instead, stick to a gentle detergent that’s designed for activewear.
- Avoid Overloading the Washer: Overstuffing your washing machine can prevent your gym clothes from getting thoroughly cleaned. Give them enough space in the washer to move around and allow the water and detergent to work their magic.
- Air Dry Whenever Possible: The heat from the dryer can be tough on workout gear, causing the fabrics to stretch or lose their elasticity. If you have the time, air dry your gym clothes to keep them in great shape.
- Wash Immediately (or Let Them Breathe): If you can’t wash your gym clothes right away, don’t let them sit bunched up in your gym bag or laundry basket. Lay them out or hang them up to air out and prevent bacteria and odor buildup before your next wash.
