Training clothes are built for performance. But to maintain their function and feel fresh over time, you need to take care of them properly. Here are our best tips for making your favorite garments from CLN Athletics last longer and perform optimally, wash after wash.
1. Wash as soon as possible after your workout
After a tough session, it's tempting to throw your clothes in the laundry basket or leave them in your bag. But sweat and moisture quickly create an environment where bacteria thrive – and that's what causes bad odors, not just the sweat itself.
Here's how:
- Hang clothes to dry if you can't wash them immediately.
- Do not store them crumpled in a bag or laundry basket.
- Ideally, wash within 24 hours to reduce bacterial growth.
2. Turn garments inside out before washing
The inside collects the most sweat and bacteria – and that's where the most odor comes from. Turning your workout clothes inside out helps with both hygiene and protecting prints, logos, and outer materials from wear and tear.
Benefits:
- More effective cleaning where it's needed most.
- Longer lifespan for colors, prints, and textures.
3. Use cold water – 30 to a maximum of 40 degrees Celsius
Most workout clothes are made from technical functional materials that are sensitive to high temperatures. Washing in water that is too hot can damage the fibers, cause garments to lose their shape, and impair their moisture-wicking properties.
Keep in mind:
- 30 degrees is sufficient to remove sweat and dirt.
- Avoid programs with pre-wash or high spin cycles.
4. Skip fabric softener entirely
Fabric softener might feel like a fresh finish, but it's actually one of the most common reasons why workout clothes lose their function. It forms a film over the fabric and blocks breathability.
Results of fabric softener:
- Garments breathe less → start to smell faster.
- Poorer moisture transport → feel sticky during workouts.
- Risk of elastane and stretch materials breaking down.
5. Use the right detergent – preferably for sportswear
A mild detergent without perfume and bleach is gentler on technical materials. There are also special detergents for sportswear designed to effectively neutralize sweat odor.
Tips:
- Avoid overdosing – it doesn't make clothes cleaner.
- Occasionally run an empty machine with vinegar to clean the machine of sweat and detergent residues.
6. Air dry instead of tumble dry
The heat in a tumble dryer can destroy elastic fibers and cause garments to shrink or lose their shape. It's better to let your workout clothes air dry – preferably hung or laid flat.
Best way to dry:
- Hang on a hanger in a ventilated area.
- Avoid direct sunlight which can fade colors.
7. Wash workout clothes separately
Mixed loads with jeans, towels, or garments with zippers can create friction and damage the more delicate materials in your workout clothes. This is especially important if you have mesh garments, seamless tights, or clothes with detailed prints.
Preferably wash separately:
- Workout garments (especially light and dark ones separated).
- Use laundry bags for extra delicate materials.
Text written by Simon Hallberg
Fitness enthusiast & writer
Published: 2025-07-03
