Sportswear has to withstand a lot: it has to be stretchy, able to absorb sweat well and also allow for good temperature control. At the same time, it should be robust, as we subject it to a lot of strain with workouts and regular jogging sessions. We also put a strain on them when washing, because sweaty clothes usually end up in the washing machine immediately after a training session. With the right care, you can still maintain the functionality of the textiles for a long time.
Before washing: A word of advice first
It's almost a reflex, the worn sportswearimmediately into the laundry basketor give the washing machine. – An error when you spreadodor-causing bacteriawant to avoid. Instead, air the sweaty clothes thoroughly until they are dry and then put them inside out in the machine. The functional shirt and running pants are guaranteed to smell fresh when you take them out.
The right sports detergent and the right wash cycle
To protect the fibers of clothing, a low washing temperature and a mild detergent are crucial.Liquid detergent gently cleans sportswearand is better suited than washing powder or tabs. In combination with a low and short wash cycle, it ensures the hygienic purity of the textile fibers. If you have a washing machine with a sports program, make use of it: the wash cycle is ideally tailored to the needs of functional clothing.
Fabric softener, on the other hand, is taboo. Due to its properties, it can stick together the textile structure and rob clothing of its air permeability. The breathable materialharms fabric softenertherefore more than it is of any use to him. The dryer also causes irreparable damage, which is why the motto for sportswear applies: always air dry, never in the machine.
The material makes the music
Before washing for the first time, you should always look at the care instructions in the sportswear. Follow the recommendations and never wash your laundry at a higher temperature than specified. In general, each material requires different handling. Synthetic fibers in particular differ significantly from wool in their requirements. Polyester and elastane are less resistant to bacteria and should therefore be cleaned after every workout. Sportswear made from wool, on the other hand, can withstand multiple sessions. The fibers of theFabric Allroundersare naturally antibacterial and keep odors away. Airing out is often sufficient.
More ways to remove odors
In contrast to heat, cold is an effective remedy against odor-causing bacteria. Even the most stubborn representatives cannot withstand single-digit degrees. Simply put smelly sports clothing in a plastic bag and put it in the freezer. After 24 hours all bacteria are killed. Alternatively, you can add several tablespoons of white vinegar to the washing drum. TheAcid neutralizes odorsefficient.
Alternative option: prefer hand washing to washing machine
Another option to protect your laundry is hand washing. A complete wash cycle is not always necessary to clean the textiles. Feel free to use soap often and rinse your sports clothing with lukewarm water after wearing it. Hand washing is not only gentle on the fibers, but also on the environment as it requires less water and electricity. After about three hand washes, you can put the clothes back in the washing machine to ensure hygienic cleanliness.
