Say Goodbye to Stinky Gear: The Ultimate Guide on How to Get Smell Out of Workout Clothes

AvatarByJeff Duncan Workout

We all know the exhilarating feeling of a great workout, but what’s not so exhilarating is the lingering smell that sticks to our workout clothes. Whether it’s from the intense sweat or the multiple uses before laundry day, getting rid of that stench can seem like an impossible task. But fear not, because in this article, we’ll explore effective ways to banish those unpleasant odors and keep your workout clothes smelling fresh and clean. Say goodbye to those embarrassing moments at the gym or during yoga class and hello to confidence with these simple tips on how to get smell out of workout clothes.

Introduction

Workout clothes are an essential part of any fitness routine, providing comfort and support during intense physical activity. However, with frequent use, these clothes tend to develop an unpleasant odor caused by sweat and bacteria buildup. This can not only be embarrassing but also make it difficult to motivate yourself to exercise. But don’t worry; there are effective ways to get rid of the smell and keep your workout clothes fresh and clean. In this article, we will discuss how to get the smell out of workout clothes.

Understanding the cause of the smell

Before we dive into the solutions, it is important to understand what causes that distinct odor in workout clothes. When we exercise, our bodies produce sweat as a way to regulate temperature. The sweat contains water and salts, but also fatty acids and proteins that bacteria feed on. In other words, the more you sweat, the more food you provide for bacteria, leading to increased growth and a stronger smell.

Another factor contributing to the smell is the type of fabric used in workout clothes. Synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon are commonly used in their production because they are breathable and moisture-wicking. However, these fabrics also tend to trap bacteria more easily compared to natural fibers like cotton.

Washing your workout clothes

The most straightforward solution to getting rid of the smell in your workout clothes is by washing them regularly after each use. This may seem obvious but is often overlooked by many people who choose to re-wear their gym gear without washing them first.

When washing your workout clothes, it is essential to pay attention to certain factors like water temperature and detergent choice. The water temperature should be warm enough (not hot) as heat can actually set in odors rather than removing them completely. Additionally, using a mild detergent specifically designed for sportswear or activewear can help break down body oils and bacteria more effectively.

It is also important to note that the agitation of the washing machine can contribute to the breakdown of fabrics, causing them to wear out sooner. Hence, it is recommended to turn your gym clothes inside out before tossing them into the washing machine to minimize the friction and prolong their lifespan.

Using natural remedies

If you prefer a more natural approach, there are several remedies that can help get rid of the smell in your workout clothes. One popular method is using white vinegar. It has antimicrobial properties that can kill bacteria and break down sweat residue. Simply add a cup of white vinegar to your laundry load and wash as usual.

Another natural option is lemon juice. Similar to vinegar, lemon juice has antibacterial properties that can help eliminate odor-causing bacteria. Squeeze about half a lemon into a bucket of water and soak your workout clothes for 30 minutes before washing.

For particularly stubborn smells, baking soda can be used as a pre-wash treatment. Mix equal parts of baking soda and water and apply it to the affected area for 15 minutes before adding it in with your regular laundry load.

Tips for preventing the smell

Prevention is always better than cure, especially when it comes to getting rid of odors in your workout clothes. Here are some tips you can follow to prevent that distinct smell from taking over your gym gear:

1) Hang dry your workout clothes instead of using a dryer as heat from the dryer will set in odors.

2) Avoid using fabric softeners or dryer sheets as they leave residue on fabrics which can trap bacteria.

3) If possible, try rotating between different sets of workout clothes throughout the week, allowing each set enough time to air out between uses.

4) If you have access to a steam cleaner or steam iron, use them on your workout clothes after each use. The high temperature kills bacteria and helps get rid of odors.

5) Consider investing in workout clothes made from natural fibers like cotton or bamboo, which are less prone to bacteria buildup and easier to care for.

Conclusion

That distinct odor in your workout clothes can be unpleasant, but it is not impossible to get rid of. By regularly washing your gym gear with the right techniques and using natural remedies, you can keep them fresh and clean for longer. Additionally, following some preventive measures can also help minimize the smell in the first place. So, adopt these practices and say goodbye to smelly workout clothes for good.

Why Do Workout Clothes Smell?

Before diving into the various methods for getting rid of smells in workout clothes, it’s important to understand why they develop these odors in the first place. Whether you’re an avid gym-goer or just starting out with a new fitness routine, it’s likely that you’ve experienced the unpleasant smell that can linger in activewear even after washing. This phenomenon is known as “the stink of sweat.”

Sweat itself doesn’t actually smell, but when it comes into contact with bacteria on our skin, it creates the odor that we associate with body odor. According to Dr. Samantha Bower, a dermatologist at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, there are two types of sweat glands in our bodies: eccrine and apocrine. Eccrine glands produce sweat that is mostly water and salt, while apocrine glands produce a thicker secretion that is made up of proteins and lipids – the perfect food for bacteria.

Our armpits contain a high concentration of apocrine glands, which is why we tend to experience body odor most prominently in this area. However, there are also many apocrine glands on our backs and chest, making them prime locations for smelly workout clothes. As we exercise and sweat, these bacteria thrive on the moisture and heat generated by our bodies, transforming our once fresh-smelling activewear into a stinky mess.

The Importance Of Properly Washing Workout Clothes

To combat the problem of smelly workout clothes, proper washing techniques are crucial. Simply throwing your gym clothes in with your regular laundry load may not be enough to fully eliminate odors – especially if you’re wearing particularly sweaty clothing like sports bras or tank tops.

The first step to properly washing workout clothes is to separate them from your regular laundry. This ensures that any harmful bacteria or sweat residue doesn’t spread onto other items of clothing. Next, turn workout clothes inside out before putting them in the washing machine. This allows for a more thorough cleaning of the areas most prone to bacteria buildup – like the armpits and inner thighs.

Another important factor to consider is water temperature. Many people tend to wash their clothes in cold water to save on energy costs, but unfortunately, this isn’t always effective for getting rid of odor-causing bacteria. Heat helps to kill bacteria, so using warm or hot water when washing workout clothes can be more beneficial.

It’s also essential to use a high-quality detergent that is specifically formulated for activewear. Some detergents contain chemicals that can actually trap odors in fabrics, making them linger even after washing. Look for detergents that mention removing tough odors or are marketed towards athletes.

Cleaning Solutions For Smelly Workout Clothes

If you’ve tried all of the above tips and your workout clothes still smell, it may be time to try some alternative cleaning solutions. There are many products on the market specifically designed to combat odors in active wear, such as sports detergent or odor-eliminating sprays.

Vinegar is also a popular DIY solution for eliminating smells in workout clothes. Simply add around 1/4 cup of white vinegar per load during the rinse cycle – this will help neutralize any lingering odors and leave your clothing smelling fresh.

Another household item that can work wonders is baking soda. Baking soda is a natural deodorizer and can help absorb odors from fabrics. Simply add half a cup of baking soda per load when washing your workout clothes, or create a paste with water and apply it directly onto stubborn odors before throwing them in the wash.

Some people also swear by using essential oils in their laundry routine to eliminate smells and leave a refreshing scent behind. Oils like tea tree, lavender, and eucalyptus have antibacterial properties and can add a fresh scent to your clothing.

Preventing Smells In Workout Clothes

As the saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. This rings true for smelly workout clothes as well – by taking some preventative measures, you can avoid dealing with stubborn odors in the first place.

After each workout session, be sure to hang up your activewear and allow it to air dry before tossing it into your laundry basket. This gives sweat and bacteria less time to settle in and also prevents damp clothes from developing musty smells.

Investing in high-quality workout clothes made from moisture-wicking materials can also make a big difference in preventing smells. These fabrics are designed to pull away moisture from the body, keeping you feeling dry and comfortable and reducing the chances of bacteria growth.

Finally, it’s essential to replace your workout clothes regularly. As much as we may love our favorite pair of leggings or sports bra, they are not immune to accumulating bacteria over time. Aim to replace items like sports bras every six months or so, and other activewear every year.

In the battle against smelly workout clothes, persistence is key. By understanding why these od

Q: Why do my workout clothes smell even after washing?
A: Sweat, dirt, and bacteria can get trapped in workout clothes, causing a stubborn odor that doesn’t come out with regular washing.

Q: Which fabrics are more prone to developing a bad odor?
A: Synthetic fabrics such as polyester and nylon are more likely to hold onto odors compared to natural fabrics like cotton or bamboo.

Q: How often should I wash my workout clothes?
A: It is recommended to wash your workout clothes after every use to prevent the buildup of sweat and bacteria that can cause unpleasant smells.

Q: What temperature should I use when washing my workout clothes?
A: Hot water can help kill odor-causing bacteria, so it’s best to use the hottest water your fabric can tolerate. However, always check the care label first as some fabrics may shrink or get damaged with hot water.

Q: Can I add vinegar or baking soda to my laundry to remove odors?
A: Yes, adding a cup of white vinegar or half a cup of baking soda to your laundry can help neutralize odors. You can also try using specially-formulated sports detergents.

Q: How do I eliminate lingering odors from my workout clothes?
A: To get rid of stubborn smells, soak your workout clothes in a mixture of 1 part white vinegar and 4 parts water for at least an hour before washing. You can also leave them to air dry in direct sunlight, which helps kill bacteria and freshen up the fabric.

In conclusion, getting rid of the unpleasant smell from workout clothes can be a challenging task, but it is not impossible. By following a few simple steps and incorporating some effective techniques, one can easily eliminate the odor and ensure that their workout clothes stay fresh and clean for longer periods. The key to successfully removing the smell lies in understanding its root cause – bacteria and sweat residue – and taking steps to tackle them effectively.

Firstly, investing in high-quality moisture-wicking fabrics can greatly reduce the build-up of bacteria and sweat on workout clothes. Additionally, washing them immediately after each use with a quality detergent, ideally one with enzymes or oxygen-based bleach, to break down oils and bacteria is crucial. Adding white vinegar or baking soda to the wash can also aid in eliminating stubborn odors.

Notably, proper drying techniques are equally important in preventing the smell from lingering on workout clothes. Air-drying them in direct sunlight helps to kill off any remaining bacteria. Furthermore, avoiding the use of fabric softeners and using specialized sports detergents or homemade alternatives such as essential oils can also go a long way in keeping workout clothes smelling fresh.

Moreover, regular cleaning of gym bags, equipment, and even washing machine itself are critical steps that are often overlooked but play a significant role in

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Jeff Duncan
Jeff Duncan, the owner and Head Coach of CrossFit Pearl District, is dedicated to fostering a supportive and effective training environment.

With a strong belief in the principles of movement mechanics, consistency, and intensity, Jeff has cultivated a community that thrives on continuous improvement and mutual support.

From 2024, Jeff Duncan has expanded his passion for CrossFit beyond coaching by writing an informative blog dedicated to the CrossFit niche. His blog features a variety of content aimed at providing valuable information and insights to the CrossFit community.

Jeff’s posts cover a wide range of topics including training techniques, nutrition advice, workout routines, and answers to common queries within the niche. This transition to blogging allows Jeff to reach a broader audience, sharing his expertise and helping individuals at all levels of their fitness journey.