How to properly wash sportswear

1. Soak clothes before washing

The odor from sportswear is caused by bacteria living on the skin that feed on sweat. Sweat gets absorbed into things, so they start to smell bad.

Distilled white vinegar, which contains acid, can help rid your clothes of stinking bacteria. Mix vinegar and cold water in a ratio of 1: 4. Soak clothes in this solution before washing and leave for 15-30 minutes.

2. Wash your clothes after every sport

If you just dry sweaty clothes before putting them on again, hoping for deodorant, it won't do you any good. After all, another layer will be added to the old layer of dirt, sweat and bacteria, causing an even stronger smell.

If suddenly you cannot wash things right away, soak them in an acetic-water solution, rinse and dry. Alternatively, simply dry them before putting them in the laundry basket to prevent mold.

Remember, these methods are not a substitute for washing. This will only help not to aggravate the situation if, for some reason, the wash is postponed.

3. Use gels for washing sportswear

Most sportswear is made from elastane. This material repels water, which keeps clothes dry. However, when washed, it will absorb detergent powders.

Some powders do not completely dissolve and clog into the seams, which can cause an allergic reaction. Therefore, it is better to use a special gel for washing sportswear.

Before washing, close all zippers or buttons and turn them inside out. Add no more than two teaspoons of the gel. Do not put too many items in the washing machine.

If there are deodorant marks or sweat stains on your clothes, brush these areas with gel using a soft toothbrush before washing.

4. Do not add fabric softener

how to wash sportswear: fabric softeners

Do not use fabric softeners when washing sportswear. They coat the fabric, thereby trapping odors and bacteria. To remove the conditioner from your clothes, you will have to wash them a few more times. In addition, it destroys the elastic properties of sportswear.

Use a home remedy to soften your clothes. Simply add ½ cup distilled white vinegar to the conditioner compartment before the last rinse. Vinegar will not only soften your clothes, but also rid them of detergent residues.

5. Wash sportswear in cold or warm water

The temperature of the water affects the structure of the fabric. Therefore, this detail should not be ignored. Cotton socks, towels and T-shirts, on the other hand, need to be washed in hot water.

6. Air dry

If you decide to use the tumble dry mode, select the lowest temperature setting. Hot air can damage the fabric, reduce its elasticity and cause it to shrink.