We all know the difference putting on activewear you love and feel good in can make to your motivation levels, helping you feel ready to take on any workout challenge. But if you don’t take care of your kit properly it can start to fade and lose it’s shape. So it’s important to know how to give your activewear a bit more TLC than the rest of your washing.
Whether it’s your favourite workout shirt or the leggings that flatter you in all the right ways, proper care can make all the difference in keeping them looking and feeling great. Here’s how to give your activewear the love it deserves, so it stays as perfect as the day you bought it.
Read the care label
First things first, always make sure you read the manufacturer’s instructions. Those little symbols on the tag aren’t just for show; they’re your guide to keeping your gear in top condition. Whether it’s machine wash cold or tumble dry low, following these guidelines can extend the life of your clothes.
Wash activewear separately
Keep your activewear separate from heavy fabrics like denim or towels. This way you can avoid unnecessary wear and tear and prevent colour bleeding. It’s a small step that makes a big difference.
Use cold water
Hot water can be harsh on the fibres, causing them to lose elasticity and make the colours less vibrant. Stick to cold water washes to keep your activewear stretchy and bright.
Gentle detergent
Opt for a mild detergent that’s specifically designed for delicate fabrics. And avoid using fabric softeners on your technical activewear; it might make your clothes smell nice but can damage the fabric’s technical properties, like moisture-wicking. If you need a softening effect, you could try using white vinegar instead.
Turn your clothes inside out
Before tossing your gear into the wash, turn everything inside out. This helps protect the outer surface from friction, which can cause pilling and fading. It’ll also help keep the graphics on your activewear and your favourite women’s gym crop tops looking fresh and new.
Avoid excessive heat
Whenever possible, air dry your activewear. If you do need to use a dryer, then choose a low heat setting to prevent damage. This is because excessive heat can ruin the elastic fibres and shorten the lifespan of your clothes.
Use a mesh laundry bag
Smaller items like sports bras and leggings can benefit from being put in a mesh laundry bag before chucking them in the washing machine. Doing this can prevents them from getting tangled or stretched out during the wash cycle.
Rotate your wardrobe
Don’t wear the same pieces over and over again. Rotating your activewear gives each piece time to recover between workouts, which helps maintain their shape and longevity. It also gives you an excuse to go and buy some more gym clothing from IronPandaFit!
Spot clean when necessary
Tackle stains immediately with a gentle stain remover to prevent them from setting. Apply the remover directly to the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, then gently blot with a clean cloth. Avoid scrubbing to protect the fabric fibres. For stubborn stains, soak the item in cold water with a bit of detergent before washing.
Store properly
Don’t just throw your activewear in your wardrobe when you’re not using it. Instead take a few minutes to properly fold or hang it to help maintain its shape. And, where you can, avoid hanging heavy items that might stretch out over time.
With these simple tips, you can keep your Iron Panda Fit gear – and all your favourite activewear – looking and performing their best, workout after workout.
Disclosure: this is a collaborative post