How Often Should You Wash Gym Clothes?

Gym clothes, unlike your normal everyday clothing, are functional by design and thus require specific care to keep them working as intended. They are made to endure heavy activity. But how often should you wash gym clothes to ensure they stay fresh and last longer?

Whether you’re killing it on the treadmill or taking a hot yoga class, your athletic wear needs some extra attention. Here’s what you need to do to keep your workout gear fresh, clean, and ready for action.

1. Wash Them After Every Workout

It might sound obvious, but yes—you need to wash your gym clothes after every workout. Sweat and bacteria quickly accumulate on athletic wear, so letting them sit on your clothes after a workout can produce foul odors. Wearing them again without washing might even cause skin irritation or rashes. Don’t skip this step! Bypass your hamper and toss your sweaty threads immediately in the washer. It’s also best to wash them in a separate load from all your other clothes.

2. Air Dry for Longer Life

Most gym clothes are made from synthetic fabrics like spandex or polyester. These materials don’t play well with high heat, so skip the dryer and let them air dry instead. Synthetic fabrics dry faster so it doesn’t take much time – and running your dryer less saves you in energy costs. You can hang them to dry on a drying rack or your shower rod.

3. Wash in Warm Water

Warm water is your best choice for washing athletic wear. Hot water can compromise the elasticity of fibers over time, while cold water might not be as effective at removing sweat and grime. Use warm water to strike the perfect balance between cleaning efficiency and gentle care.

4. Don’t Use Fabric Softeners

Using fabric softeners or dryer sheets on gym clothes is a big no-no. These products can trap bacteria in the fibers, locking in odors instead of removing them. Plus, they leave a waxy film on your clothes that negates the water-wicking properties of your gym clothes. Instead, add half a cup of white vinegar to your wash—it’s a natural deodorizer that’s safe for fabrics.

5. Upgrade Your Detergent

Regular detergent might not cut it for your sweat-heavy gear. Use detergents designed for activewear, such as:

These formulas are specifically made to eliminate odors and stains from your most intense workouts.

6. Presoak for Extra Freshness

If you’ve got the time or if your washer has this option, presoaking gym clothes can work wonders. Soak them for about 20 minutes before washing to loosen up dirt and sweat. It’s not a necessary step but it can be beneficial for clothes that are extra dirty. You can use a bucket with water + white vinegar or a very small amount of detergent.

7. Don’t Forget Your Gym Bag

Don’t sabotage your fresh gym wear by throwing them in your dirty gym bag. Doing so will transfer odors and dirt to your clean clothes. Wipe your gym bag down regularly with disinfectant wipes or wash it if possible. You can even make your own spray with a solution of water + white vinegar. Spritz your bag with this mixture before loading your bag. A clean gym bag = fresh workout gear.

Gym clothes are an important part of your fitness regiment, so keeping them clean and cared for is a must. Follow these tips to ensure your athleticwear stays fresh, long lasting, and odor-free after every workout.

Understanding how often should you wash gym clothes is essential for keeping them fresh, odor-free, and in good shape. Regular washing prevents bacteria buildup and ensures your athletic wear lasts longer. By giving your workout gear the care it deserves, you can keep it ready for every run, class, or gym session without compromise.

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Danielle Balog

Danielle Balog is the founder of Laundry Care, a business she launched as a stay-at-home parent seeking a way to earn extra income while balancing family life. Driven by her entrepreneurial spirit and the need for flexible work, Danielle turned a simple idea into a nationwide laundry service that helps busy families and professionals reclaim their time. Her vision for Laundry Care is rooted in convenience, quality, and a genuine understanding of her customers' needs. Today, Danielle’s journey from home-based startup to industry leader inspires others looking to create meaningful solutions for modern life.