How to Wash Workout Clothes (The Right Way)
Workout clothes take a beating. Sweat, stretch and constant washing all add up. The good news: a simple routine keeps them fresh and fitting right for much longer. Here is the step-by-step.
Step 1: Don't let them sit
Balled-up sweaty clothes in a gym bag are the fastest route to lingering smell. If you can't wash right away, hang them up to air out first.
Step 2: Turn them inside out
The inside of your clothes is where most of the sweat and body oil ends up. Turning pieces inside out puts that side in direct contact with the water and helps protect the outside surface.
Step 3: Zip pockets and use a mesh bag
Close any zippers so they don't snag other pieces. A mesh laundry bag adds extra protection, especially if you're washing with heavier items like jeans or towels.
Step 4: Wash cool and gentle
- Water: cold or cool. KYNOS pieces are machine washable up to 30°C / 86°F.
- Cycle: gentle
- Load: don't overstuff the machine, so clothes can move and rinse clean
Step 5: Go light on detergent
Use a small amount of regular detergent. More soap doesn't mean cleaner clothes, and extra can leave residue that holds onto odor. Skip fabric softener and bleach. See can you use fabric softener on workout clothes.
Step 6: Hang dry
Heat is the biggest enemy of stretch. Hang pieces up or lay them flat. Lightweight nylon blends dry quickly without a dryer. No ironing needed either.
Quick cheat sheet
- Do: wash cool, gentle cycle, inside out, light detergent, hang dry
- Don't: hot water, hot dryer, fabric softener, bleach, iron, dry clean
Got a specific problem?
- Clothes still smell after washing? See why gym clothes smell after washing.
- Marks or buildup? See how to get sweat stains out of workout clothes.
- Losing stretch? See how to keep your activewear stretchy.
Gear built for regular washing
The KYNOS FlexStride Jogger is 80% nylon and 20% spandex with four-way stretch, in navy, black and olive. The KYNOS Performance Tee is a quick-dry nylon, polyester and spandex blend in black, olive, blue and purple.
Browse the full KYNOS men's collection.