Sweaty Workout Clothes Stinking Up Your Laundry. 7 Tips for Getting Rid of Sweat Smell in Sports Clothing

Sweaty Workout Clothes Stinking Up Your Laundry. 7 Tips for Getting Rid of Sweat Smell in Sports Clothing

Presoak Workout Clothes in Vinegar to Neutralize Odor

If you’re an active person, you know the struggle of having smelly, sweaty workout clothes stinking up your laundry. No matter how many times you wash them, the stubborn sweat odor just won’t go away. While heavy-duty detergents may help, they can also fade fabrics over time. Luckily, there are some simple natural solutions to get rid of sweat smell that won’t damage your activewear.

1. Presoak in Vinegar

One of the most effective natural odor fighters is plain old white vinegar. Simply fill a bucket or sink with cold water and add 1-2 cups of vinegar. Let your sweaty clothes soak for 30 minutes to an hour before washing. The acidic vinegar helps break down sweat residues and bacteria that cause odor. For super stinky workout wear, you can also add some baking soda to boost the cleaning power.

2. Wash With Vinegar

If you don’t have time to presoak, simply add 1⁄2 cup vinegar to your regular detergent in the washing machine. The vinegar will help neutralize sweat smells in your laundry loads. For extra cleaning power, use vinegar during the rinse cycle as well. The vinegar smell dissipates as clothes dry.

3. Use an Oxygenated Detergent

Look for an oxygenated or oxygen-boosted laundry detergent made specifically for athletic clothing. These contain ingredients like sodium percarbonate that help break down stubborn odors on a chemical level. They produce an oxygen boost that works to lift odors and freshen fabrics.

4. Go Natural With Detergent

Skip the fragrances and dyes in regular detergent that simply mask odors instead of removing them. Choose an organic, eco-friendly detergent made from plant-based ingredients like essential oils. These are often better at naturally dissolving sweat residues.

5. Add Baking Soda

Baking soda is a natural deodorizer and gently cleansing agent. For a simple at-home booster, add 1⁄2 cup of baking soda along with your regular detergent. For extra cleaning power, make a paste of 1 part baking soda and 1 part water and rub it directly on sweat stains before washing.

6. Use an Anti-Odor Sports Spray

Spritz smelly spots on your workout wear with an anti-odor spray formulated for athletic apparel. These contain ingredients like citrus extracts and zinc oxide to help neutralize sweat odors and prevent growth of odor-causing bacteria.

7. Dry in the Sun

Nothing beats the natural power of sunlight when it comes to odor removal. After washing sweaty gym clothes, hang them outside to dry if possible. The UV rays in sunlight help decompose odor-causing bacteria.

With just a few inexpensive household ingredients, you can win the battle against smelly workout clothes. Skip the harsh detergents and enjoy fresh, odor-free activewear with these natural cleaning solutions. Give vinegar or baking soda a try the next time your laundry load is looking a little too lived-in from all those long runs and CrossFit classes.

Use a Laundry Detergent Made for Sweat and Odor

If you’re an active person who works up a sweat during exercise, you know the struggle of getting those funky sweat smells out of your workout clothes. No matter how many normal washes you do, the stench of hard-earned perspiration never seems to fully come out. But don’t fret – with the right laundry detergent, you can kick that sweat stink to the curb.

Specialized detergents designed for sweaty workout gear use ingredients and formulas made to cut through and eliminate tough odor molecules. This allows you to really deep clean your activewear and prevent future buildup of BO. Look for detergents containing enzymatic formulas, oxygen boosters, and essential oils that work together to break down, dissolve, and neutralize odors.

Many mainstream detergents simply cover up smells with perfumes and don’t actually remove them at the source. Enzymatic cleaners like BioKleen’s Sports Laundry Detergent use natural enzymes that break apart odor compounds. Oxygen-based ingredients create extra cleaning bubbles to lift deposits and residues. Essential oils like lemon and eucalyptus purify with their fresh scents and antimicrobial properties.

While you’re searching for a high-performance detergent, also look at the label for avoiding harsh chemicals. Some cleaners use potent ingredients that could prematurely fade prints and fabrics over time. Choose plant-based, non-toxic formulas whenever possible for an effective eco-friendly clean.

Tips for Washing Sweaty Workout Clothes

While using a specialty detergent is key, your laundry practices also play a big role. Follow these tips when doing a sweaty load:

• Wash athletic clothing right after wearing. Leaving sweaty gear in the hamper gives smells more time to set in.
• Use cold water washes for optimal odor removal. Hot water can set in odors.
• Pretreat tough stains like deodorant marks before washing.
• Air dry workout wear if possible rather than machine drying.
• Consider doing a rinse cycle after washing sweat-soaked laundry.
• Add a half cup of white vinegar to the rinse for extra deodorizing.
• Use odor eliminating laundry booster sprays pre-wash.

Following a thorough game plan using the right techniques and products will keep your activewear fresh. You can feel good knowing your workout clothes are really getting clean.

Deep Cleaning Wash Cycles for Severe Sweat Smells

For workout clothes that require heavy-duty odor removal, use a specialty deep cleaning cycle. These wash modes use longer cycles, multiple rinses, higher water levels, and higher spin speeds to intensively wash clothing.

Most washers have a default heavy duty or super wash mode. Check your machine’s manual for details on how it works. This will vigorously clean without the need for extremely hot water. You can also do a double wash by running the load through the normal cycle twice.

If detergent alone isn’t cutting it, try adding a laundry disinfectant cleaner or sanitizer to your wash routine. This will eliminate germs and bacteria that cause lingering smells. Make sure your washer is clean too – run an empty sanitize or tub clean cycle periodically.

Consider an Antimicrobial Sports Spray

As a supplementary odor prevention method, use an antimicrobial pre-wash spray. Spray down clothes right after working out to inhibit bacterial growth and prevent smells from setting in.

Look for sprays made specifically for athletic apparel that won’t damage technical fabrics. You want a non-toxic continuous protection formula rather than just masking with fragrance. The spray creates an invisible shield that keeps fabrics fresher between washes.

Spray on all your gear including tops, bottoms, socks, bags, pads, etc. Focus on areas most prone to odors like collars, arm pits, waistbands, and feet. It only takes a light mist to do the job.

Keep Your Washer Smelling Fresh Too

It’s not just your clothes that need odor defense – your washer can build up smells over time too. Here are some tips to keep your washing machine fresh:

• Leave the door open between loads to dry it out.
• Wipe down any visible gunk and residue with hot water and vinegar.
• Run a tub clean cycle monthly to disinfect.
• Remove built up detergent by running an empty rinse cycle.
• Leave baking soda in the drum when not in use to absorb odors.

By taking care of your washer, you remove a potential source of stink for future laundry loads. This ensures you always have a clean slate for washing the freshest smelling clothes.

Next time you are struggling with smelly gym clothes, reach for a heavy-duty detergent and put these odor-busting techniques into practice. With some diligence, you can conquer sweat stench and have clean, fragrant activewear once again!

Add Baking Soda to Kill Bacteria Causing Smell

As an active person, you know the odoriferous struggle of sweat-soaked gym clothes. No matter how many washes, that distinct BO stench lingers. While using a specialized detergent helps, baking soda can be a secret weapon for tackling the bacteria behind the smell.

Baking soda is alkaline, which creates an inhospitable environment for odor-causing bacteria. Simply adding a half cup to your laundry routine inhibits bacterial growth. This prevents stink from forming so your athletic apparel stays fresher between washes.

Along with detergent, baking soda lifts sweat residues from fabric fibers. It also acts as a natural deodorizer, absorbing and neutralizing unpleasant smells lingering in clothes. Use this pantry staple as an effective, non-toxic solution for sweat odor issues.

Tips for Washing Sweaty Activewear

While baking soda boosts your laundry routine, following best practices for washing sweaty clothes is key. Here are some tips for keeping gym gear smelling fresh:

• Wash athletic apparel soon after wearing to prevent odors setting in.
• Use cold washes – heat can set stains and smells.
• Pretreat tough sweat stains before washing.
• Consider air drying over machine drying when possible.
• Do an extra rinse cycle after washing sweaty clothing.
• Add white vinegar to the rinse cycle for extra deodorizing.
• Spray clothes with an antimicrobial pre-wash spray.

It takes diligence to really get your activewear clean. But combining the right practices and products will kick even the toughest workout stench.

Deep Cleaning Cycles for Severe Odors

For super smelly gym clothes that require heavy-duty odor removal, use a specialty deep cleaning cycle. These modes use longer wash times, multiple rinses, higher water levels, and faster spins to clean more thoroughly.

Most washing machines have a default heavy duty setting you can enable. Check your washer’s manual for details. The vigorous wash doesn’t need extremely hot temps to be effective. You can also do a double wash by running clothes through the normal cycle twice.

If that still isn’t enough, add a laundry disinfectant or sanitizer to your wash. This eliminates germs and bacteria that cause lingering odors. Keep your machine fresh too by running monthly tub clean cycles.

Spray Clothes With Antimicrobial Protection

As a supplementary odor prevention method, use an antimicrobial pre-wash spray. Simply mist clothes after your workout to stop smells from setting in.

Look for sprays made specifically for workout wear using non-toxic formulas safe for technical fabrics. The spray creates an invisible barrier to inhibit bacteria growth between washes so clothes stay fresher.

Lightly spray all your activewear items including tops, bottoms, socks, pads, bags, etc. Focus on high odor zones like underarms, waistbands, and feet. It only takes a quick spritz to do the job.

Keep Your Washer Smelling Fresh

It’s not just clothes needing odor defense – washers can build up smells too. Here are some tips to keep your washing machine fresh:

• Leave the door open when not in use to air it out
• Wipe away any visible gunk and residue inside the drum
• Run monthly tub clean cycles to disinfect
• Remove built up detergent with an empty rinse cycle
• Place baking soda in the drum when not washing to absorb odors

By keeping your washer clean, you ensure no residual smells transfer to clothes. Starting with a fresh machine means you can really eliminate odors.

How to Add Baking Soda to Your Wash

Adding baking soda to your laundry routine is simple. Here are two easy methods:

• With detergent: Add up to 1/2 cup baking soda along with detergent to the drum before loading clothes.
• On its own: Run an empty cycle with baking soda only to deep clean the machine of odors.

For best results, always use baking soda along with an enzyme-based detergent specifically formulated for sweat and body oils. The combination gives a one-two punch against tough odors.

While baking soda works wonders, avoid using too much. Excessive amounts can leave residue on clothes that diminishes effectiveness over time. Start with 1/4 cup first and increase as needed.

With some added elbow grease from baking soda and the right practices, you can win the battle against stinky workout clothes. Wave goodbye to stubborn sweat smells and keep your activewear fresh!

Soak in OxyClean to Lift Out Sweat Stains

As an active person, you know the struggle of sweat stains and odors in workout clothes. No matter how much you wash them, areas like underarms, collars and waistbands seem to permanently retain a yellowish tinge and stink. OxiClean can be the secret weapon to finally lift those set-in sweat stains while eliminating odor.

OxiClean is sodium percarbonate, an oxidizing agent that breaks down organic stains on a molecular level. Dissolved in water, it releases hydrogen peroxide which acts as a powerful cleaning and whitening agent. This allows OxiClean to penetrate fibers and remove discoloration and smells.

Make an OxiClean soak your first line of defense against sweat stains. For best results, soak clothes immediately after wearing. This prevents stains from setting and makes removal easier. Follow with a normal wash cycle using an enzyme-based detergent.

Tips for Washing Sweaty Workout Wear

While OxiClean boosts your stain-fighting arsenal, your regular washing practices also play a key role in sweat and odor removal. Follow these tips when laundering activewear:

• Wash right after wearing to prevent odor and stain setting.
• Use cold washes since heat can set stains and smells.
• Consider air drying over machine drying when possible.
• Add white vinegar or baking soda to fight odors.
• Use an antimicrobial pre-wash spray between wears.
• Check labels and wash delicate performance fabrics separately.

Combining the right techniques with products like OxiClean will keep your workout wear looking and smelling fresh.

Deep Clean Cycles for Severe Odor Issues

For super stinky, stained clothes requiring heavy-duty cleaning, use a specialty deep wash cycle. These settings use higher water levels, longer wash times, multiple rinses and faster spins to intensely clean.

Most washers have a default heavy duty mode you can select. Check your machine’s manual for details. Vigorous washing in cold water prevents odors and stains without fading clothes.

If that’s still not enough, add a laundry sanitizer to kill bacteria that cause lingering smells. And be sure your washer stays fresh too by periodically running clean cycles.

Apply Pre-Wash Sprays to Clothes

As an added preventative measure, use an antimicrobial pre-wash spray on clothes between wears. Simply mist items immediately after workouts to stop odors and stains from setting in.

Look for sprays made specifically for athletic apparel that won’t damage technical fabrics. Formulas with bacteria inhibitors create an invisible shield for continuous odor protection.

Spray down tops, bottoms, socks, pads – anything that contacts sweat. Reapply after each wear for the best results at keeping clothes smelling their freshest.

How to Soak Clothes in OxiClean

OxiClean is easy to use for tackling set-in sweat stains and odors:

• Mix 1-2 scoops OxiClean per gallon of cool water in a tub or bucket.
• Submerge stained/smelly clothes fully and let soak 30 minutes to a few hours.
• For heavy stains, gently rub soaked fabric together.
• Rinse thoroughly then wash as normal with detergent.

Make sure to fully dissolve OxiClean before soaking clothes. Check labels and care instructions first – prolonged soaking can damage some fabrics. Never use OxiClean solutions in a hot wash cycle.

While OxiClean works wonders, combining with enzyme-based detergents gives a one-two punch against sweat stains and odors. With some diligence, you can keep your activewear looking and smelling like new.

Don’t let smelly, stained workout clothes hamper your fitness motivation. With a simple OxiClean soak, you can erase those yellow pit stains and dingy collars to keep your athletic apparel fresh.

Air Dry Workout Clothes to Prevent Mildew Smell

We’ve all been there before. You’ve just finished an intense workout and your clothes reek of sweat. No matter how many times you wash them, you just can’t seem to get rid of that funky odor. What gives?

Sweat itself doesn’t actually smell bad. The stench comes from bacteria that thrive on sweat and cause fabric to take on a mildew-like smell. And once workout clothes get stinky, it can be tricky to get them fresh again. Detergent alone often isn’t enough to overpower stubborn sweat odors.

Luckily, there are some simple tricks you can use to keep your activewear from smelling sour after a sweat session. With a little extra care while laundering, air drying, and storing your workout wear, you can stop sweat stains and odors from building up over time. Here are 7 tips to get rid of sweat smell in sports clothing for good:

1. Rinse Clothes Immediately After Working Out

As soon as you peel off your sweaty gear after a workout or game, rinse or soak the items in cold water. This will help dilute and wash away some of the sweat and bacteria before it has a chance to really set in. Taking this quick rinse step can make a big difference in preventing long-term odors.

2. Use a Sports Detergent

Look for a laundry detergent made specifically for activewear and exercise clothing. These are formulated to cut through the oils, bacteria, and odors from sweat and outdoor sports. Brands like Tide Plus Febreze Sport, Persil ProClean Athletic, and Lysol Laundry Sanitizer are designed to get workout clothes extra clean.

3. Skip Fabric Softener

It might sound counterintuitive, but fabric softeners and dryer sheets can sometimes make odor issues worse. The perfumes and coatings can seal in the stink rather than washing it away. For super stinky workout wear, skip the fabric softener so detergents can better penetrate the fabric.

4. Wash in Hot Water

For workout clothes that are beyond smelly, do a wash cycle in the hottest water recommended for the fabric. The heat helps kill bacteria and also helps release more sweat and body oil buildup from the material. Just check clothing tags first to make sure items can handle high temperatures.

5. Air Dry

The heat of the dryer can bake in odors over time. For the freshest smelling workout wear, let items air dry instead. Hang or lay flat to dry so air can circulate around the fabric. The natural drying process helps prevent mildew smells.

6. Use Odor-Fighting Sprays

Spritzing on an odor-eliminating spray can help get rid of lingering smells between washes. Look for active ingredients like odor-eaters, chlorine dioxide, or zinc ricinoleate to break down molecules that cause smells. Apply to clean, dry workout clothes that need a quick freshening up.

7. Store in an Open Space

Prevent post-workout clothes from getting musty by allowing space for airflow in storage. Don’t overload drawers or pile sweaty items together. Let workout wear fully dry before putting away. You can also stuff laundry bags with dryer balls or charcoal bags to absorb moisture and odors in dresser drawers or a gym bag.

By tackling sweat smells head-on right after your workout, you’ll keep your activewear fresher between deep cleaning cycles. No more embarrassing whiffs when you pull on those yoga pants for your next exercise class! With a few adjustments to how you care for sweaty sports clothing in between wears, you can feel confident knowing even your stinkiest workout gear will stay smelling sweet.

Wash Sports Bras and Socks Separately

Listen up, gym rats. If you’re anything like me, you know the struggle that comes with washing super sweaty workout clothes. No matter how many laundry cycles you do, sometimes that funky odor just won’t budge. Am I right?

But don’t stress – I’ve got the inside scoop on how to get rid of stink in activewear for good. Through plenty of trial and error (and more than a few smelly sports bras), I’ve discovered the secrets to making sure your workout gear comes out fresh and odor-free every time.

The key is learning how to wash athletic clothes the right way. Follow these 7 pro tips and you’ll never have to hold your nose before suiting up for your favorite sweat session again!

1. Stop! Don’t Mix Your Workout Clothes

I know, I know – it’s tempting to just throw everything in the wash together. But trust me, this is a recipe for stink-disaster. You gotta treat tough fabrics like sports bras and gym socks separately if you really want to kick the odor.

2. Use a Special Activewear Detergent

Not all soaps are created equal, friends. For super stinky workout wear, you need a high-powered detergent made specifically for athletic clothing. Look for ones with fancy enzymes that help bust through sweat and oils.

3. Give it a Good Rinse Before Washing

Don’t let the sweat sit! As soon as you peel off your nasty, sweat-drenched gear after the gym, rinse it in the sink with cold water. This dilutes the bacteria and prevents smells from settling in too deep.

4. Say No to Fabric Softeners and Dryer Sheets

I know these smell oh-so-nice, but they can trap odors in your clothes instead of washing them away. Skip ’em when laundering super stanky workout wear so the detergent can really work its magic.

5. Crank up the Heat

For seriously smelly athletic clothing, wash in hot water to really kill those odor-causing bacteria. Just double check care labels first – some performance fabrics can’t take high heat.

6. Let it Air Dry

Put down that dryer sheet! The heat from machines can bake smells into clothes over time. I like to lay my workout wear flat or hang it up to air dry instead. The fresh air helps it smell ah-mazing.

7. Keep it Fresh Between Washes

Mist sweaty gear with an odor-eliminating spray to knock out smells between washes. Look for one with fancy science-y ingredients like “odor eaters” – these bad boys destroy odor molecules on contact.

So there ya have it – now you’re armed with all my insider tricks for smelling sweet after a sweat session! Wave goodbye to funky odors in your gym bag for good. Who else is ready to put these tips to the test?

Consider an Anti-Odor Sports Laundry Spray

Let’s be real – working up a good sweat at the gym leaves our activewear anything but fresh. And no matter how many cycles in the washing machine, sometimes that stench just won’t budge. Am I right, gym rats?

But don’t fret! After dealing with more than my fair share of stinky workout clothes, I’ve got the inside scoop on banishing odor for good. Yes, even the smelliest yoga pants and funkiest gym socks can come out fresh as daisies.

The secret lies in learning how to wash athletic wear the right way. Follow my tips below to stop smells before they start, and your workout gear will be odor-free in no time.

1. Pre-Rinse the Stank Away

As soon as you peel off your nasty, sweat-soaked clothes after a workout, rinse them in cold water. This dilutes the bacteria before they have a chance to really take hold and cause long-term stink.

2. Use a Special Activewear Detergent

Not all soaps are created equal, friends! For the best odor-fighting power, use a detergent specifically formulated for fitness clothing. These are designed to cut through tough sweat and oils.

3. Wash and Dry on Hot

Turn up that water temp! Washing in hot water helps kill odor-causing bacteria lingering in the fabric. Then dry on high heat to really purge the stank from your activewear.

4. Skip the Fabric Softener and Dryer Sheets

They make your laundry smell oh-so-nice, but fabric softeners and dryer sheets can actually trap odors instead of washing them away. For super stinky workout wear, it’s best to just say no.

5. Let it Air Dry

Lay your washed workout clothes flat or hang them up to air dry. The heat of machines can bake smells in over time, so let the fresh air whisk away odors instead.

6. Spray Away Smells Between Washes

Keep a sweat-fighting spray on hand for a quick odor eliminator between washes. Look for one powered by fancy science-y ingredients like odor eaters that literally devour smells upon contact.

7. Store in Loose, Breathable Spaces

Prevent funky smells from building up by allowing space for airflow when storing laundry. Don’t overload drawers or seal stinky clothes in plastic bags!

Well, there you have it – all my hard-earned wisdom on keeping workout wear stench-free. No more holding your nose when getting dressed for the gym! Give these tips a try and wave goodbye to stinky activewear for good. Now who’s ready to break a sweat?

Wash Gym Clothes After Every Wear

Alright fitness fiends, let’s address the elephant in the room – funky smelling workout wear. We all know the struggle when our activewear gets a little, uh, fragrant after logging miles at the gym. No matter how much we wash it, the stench just won’t budge!

But don’t stress. After battling stinky exercise clothes for years, I’ve finally cracked the code on keeping gym gear fresh. The secret lies in learning how to wash athletic fabrics the right way after working up a sweat.

Follow these tips and you’ll never have to plug your nose before suiting up for a workout again. Let’s kick odor to the curb once and for all!

1. Stop! Don’t Let Sweat Sit

As soon as you peel off your nasty, sweat-soaked clothes after the gym, rinse or soak them in cold water. Don’t let the bacteria feast – wash ASAP to stop stink in its tracks.

2. Use an Activewear Detergent

Not all soaps are equal, friends. To really erase tough odors, you need a high-powered detergent designed specifically for exercise clothing.

3. Wash After EVERY Wear

This is key – don’t let smells build up over time! To keep funk away for good, wash gym clothes after every single wear. No exceptions, sweaty friends.

4. Skip Fabric Softener and Dryer Sheets

They make laundry smell oh-so-nice, but these additives can trap odors rather than washing them away. For super stinky workout wear, it’s best to just say no.

5. Use Hot Water

Crank up that temperature! Washing athletic fabrics in piping hot water helps kill bacteria and release built-up sweat and oils that cause smells.

6. Let it Air Dry

Lay those sweaty clothes flat or hang them up to air dry. The heat of machines can bake odors in over time, so let fresh air whisk stink away instead.

7. Mist with an Odor Spray

Keep a sweat-fighting spray on hand to mist smelly clothes between washes. Look for one with fancy odor-eating ingredients that destroy stank on contact.

Well, there you have it – follow these pro tips and you’ll never have to hold your nose before a workout again! Wave goodbye to funky smells for good with the right wash routine. Who’s ready to work up a sweat and stay stench-free?

Use Hot Water to Sanitize and Remove Odors

Listen up, gym goers. We all know the struggle when our workout wear gets a little, uh, stinky. No matter how many washes, that sour sweat smell just won’t budge! I’ve been there too.

But after plenty of trial and error, I’m here to share the secrets to banishing odor from activewear once and for all. Yes, even the sweatiest sports bra can come out fresh with the right laundry routine.

Follow my pro tips below to stop stench in its tracks and keep your athletic gear smelling sweet. Let’s beat gym clothes funk together!

1. Pre-Rinse the Sweat

As soon as you take off your nasty, sweat-soaked gear after a workout, rinse it in cold water. This dilutes the bacteria before they settle in and cause long-term stink.

2. Use a Sports Detergent

Not all soaps are made equal! For super stinky workout clothes, you need an extra strength detergent designed specifically for activewear.

3. Wash After Every Wear

Don’t let odor build up over time! To stop smells for good, toss gym clothes in the wash after each and every sweat session.

4. Wash in Hot Water

Crank up that temperature! Hot water helps kill odor-causing bacteria and release built-up sweat and oils that lead to stink.

5. Skip Fabric Softener

They make laundry smell great, but fabric softeners can actually trap odors instead of washing them away. Steer clear for super smelly workout wear.

6. Let it Air Dry

The heat from dryers can bake smells into clothing. For fresh activewear, lay flat or hang to air dry instead. Let the breeze whisk away odors.

7. Use an Odor Spray

Keep stank away between washes by misting clothes with a sweat-fighting spray. Look for odor-eaters that destroy smells at a molecular level!

Well friends, now you’ve got my insider tips to stop gym clothes stink once and for all. No more holding your nose when suiting up for a workout! Give these tricks a try for smelling sweet from the studio to the streets.

Don’t Overload the Washing Machine

Listen up, fellow fitness fanatics. We all know the struggle that comes after an intense workout when our activewear gets a little, well, stinky. No matter how many washes, that sour sweat smell just won’t fade away!

But after plenty of trial and error, I’m here to share the secrets to keeping gym clothes odor-free for good. Yes, even the sweatiest yoga pants and funkiest socks can come out fresh as daisies.

The key lies in learning how to properly wash athletic fabrics. Follow my laundry tips below to stop smells before they start and keep your workout wear stench-free.

1. Pre-Rinse the Sweat

As soon as you peel off your nasty, sweat-drenched gear, rinse it in cold water. Don’t let the bacteria fester – rinse right after your workout!

2. Use a Sports Detergent

Not all soaps are equal for activewear! Choose a high-performance detergent specifically made for exercise clothing.

3. Wash After Every Wear

Don’t let odor build up over time. To stop stink, it’s crucial to wash workout clothes after each and every gym session.

4. Wash in Hot Water

Crank up that temp! Hot water helps kill bacteria, break down sweat, and release stinky oils from the fabric.

5. Don’t Overload the Machine

Washing too many clothes at once means they won’t get fully clean. For the freshest activewear, only wash a few smelly items at a time.

6. Air Dry

Lay clothes flat or hang them up to air dry. The heat from machines can bake odors into fabric over time.

7. Use an Odor Spray

Mist stinky spots with a sweat-fighting spray between washes. Look for odor eaters that destroy smells on a molecular level!

Well, there you have it fitness friends – no more smelly gear with these laundry secrets. Now you can break a sweat without the stench. Give it a try and keep your activewear smelling fresh!

Check for Mold and Mildew Buildup in Washer

If you’ve noticed a persistent funky odor coming from your workout clothes even after washing, the issue may not be the clothes themselves, but rather a buildup of mold and mildew in your washing machine. This is especially common if you regularly wash sweaty gym clothes, as the damp environment is ideal for mold growth.

Start by running an empty wash cycle on the hottest setting with bleach or other washing machine cleaner. This will help kill any mold that has taken up residence inside your washer. Pay particular attention to the rubber seal around the door, as this is a prime spot for mildew. Give it a good scrub and let everything air dry completely before using again.

It’s also a good idea to leave the door open after cycles to let fresh air circulate and dry out any lingering moisture. You may need to repeat this washing machine cleaning process a few times if there is a lot of buildup.

1. Pre-treat Tough Odor Spots

If you notice certain clothing items that seem to hang onto sweat smells more than others, pre-treat those smelly spots before tossing them in the laundry. Spray or rub laundry pre-wash sprays or stain removers directly onto the underarms and collar area before washing. These pre-treatments help break down sweat residues and body oil that can cling to fabric.

2. Wash in Hot Water

For workout clothes and athletic wear, always use the hottest water setting appropriate for the fabric. Heat helps release sweat stains and odors from fabric fibers. For exercise clothes, warm or hot water is ideal. Check clothing tags first though, as high heat can damage delicate fabrics.

3. Use a Laundry Detergent Made for Odor Control

Not all laundry detergents are created equal when it comes to fighting sweat smells. Look for ones specially formulated to eliminate tough odors like perspiration. Often these contain active enzymes that help break down odor compounds. Sports detergents can also help repel dirt and oils that lead to odors.

4. Add Baking Soda to the Wash Cycle

For extra odor-fighting power, add 1/2 cup of baking soda along with your regular detergent. The baking soda helps absorb and neutralize stubborn sweat smells in fabric. It’s gentle enough to use every time you wash workout wear.

5. Soak in Vinegar Water First

For super stinky clothes, try soaking them in a vinegar solution before washing. The acidic vinegar helps remove sweat residue and neutralize odors. Fill your sink or a bucket with cool water and add 1-2 cups white vinegar, then soak smelly clothes for 30 minutes before washing.

6. Hang Dry Workout Clothes

The heat of machine drying can actually set odors into fabric, so air drying is ideal for sweaty gym clothes. Hang workout wear outside if possible, as sunlight is a natural odor neutralizer. If hanging indoors, make sure there is good air circulation.

7. Wash and Dry Inside-Out

Turning clothes inside-out before washing can help release built-up sweat and body oils from fabric. The inside takes the most wear, so focusing the agitation of the washer on this part of the garment helps remove clingy odors. Hanging inside out to dry also exposes the interior directly to air.

With a few adjustments to your laundry routine, you can keep your workout wear fresh and funk-free. Take care to promptly wash gym clothes after working up a sweat, use sports-specific detergents, avoid excessive heat, and take extra steps like soaking or pre-treating if smells persist. With time and effort, you can outsmart stubborn sweat odors.

Skip Fabric Softener and Dryer Sheets

If you’re struggling to eliminate funky odors from your activewear, it may be time to nix the fabric softener and dryer sheets. While they can make clothes feel soft and smell nice, these additives can actually coat fibers and trap in sweat smells over time. Ditch them when washing workout wear.

Fabric softeners and dryer sheets work by leaving behind a lightweight film on clothing. This film gives a smooth, fluffy feel, but it can also inhibit proper cleaning. Detergents have a harder time penetrating and removing body oils and odor molecules from fabric when they are coated with these products.

Let Hot Water Do the Work

Rather than relying on fabric softeners for fresh scent, use the power of heat. Hot water is your best weapon against sweaty smells. Turn the dial to the hottest setting suitable for your athletic fabrics. The high temperature helps release embedded odors.

Add Vinegar as a Rinse

For a natural fabric softening alternative, use vinegar. Add 1⁄2 cup distilled white vinegar to the rinse cycle. It will leave a fresh, clean scent without residue. The vinegar also acts as a deodorizer to neutralize lingery sweat smells.

Use Dryer Balls

To cut static and help clothes dry faster, add a few wool or rubber dryer balls. These will naturally soften fabrics by separating clothes and allowing better airflow. No coating or residue left behind to gunk up fibers.

Try Liquid Detergents

Powder detergents can also leave particles behind that attract odors over time. For workout wear, liquid detergents are a better choice as they rinse away completely. Be sure to measure correctly and avoid oversuds that lead to residue.

Soak Tough Stains Beforehand

For super smelly spots like underarm residue, do a pre-wash soak. Fill a bucket or sink with cool water and add baking soda, vinegar, or oxygen boosters. Let heavily soiled clothes soak 30-60 minutes before washing.

Hang Dry Outside

Harness the power of sunlight to naturally deodorize. Hang washed clothes outdoors on a drying rack or clothesline if possible. The sun’s UV rays help eliminate bacteria that cause odors.

Clean the Machine

Do a periodic deep clean of your washer to eliminate any buildup of gunk that could redeposit on clothes. Run a hot cycle with bleach or cleaning solutions. Target the rubber gasket.

Ditching the fabric softeners and dryer sheets may feel hard at first, but once you adjust your routine, your workout wear will smell fresh as can be. Rely on the cleaning power of hot water, vinegar, and the sun to naturally get rid of sweat smells and feel good about using fewer chemicals.

Clean Out Your Washing Machine Regularly

It’s easy to forget about your washing machine amid the piles of sweaty socks and shirts. But taking time to clean the washer itself is crucial for reducing odors in activewear. Gunk, mold, and mildew buildup in your machine can redeposit smells back onto clothes.

Target the Gasket

Run an empty hot cycle monthly using bleach or other washing machine cleaners. Pay special attention to the rubber gasket around the door, spraying it directly with cleaner. This is where moisture and residue collect.

Leave the Door Open

Moisture is the enemy when it comes to mildew in your washer. Be diligent about leaving the door open after each cycle to allow airflow. You can even place a fan nearby periodically to circulate air.

Vinegar is Your Friend

For a natural and inexpensive option, run a wash cycle monthly using 2 cups vinegar instead of detergent. The acetic acid in vinegar dissolves soap scum and kills odor-causing bacteria.

Check Under the Drum

Use a mirror to inspect under the drum forhidden gunk. If you find residue, mix baking soda and vinegar into a paste and carefully scrub it away. A toothbrush can help.

Keep Detergent Drawer Clean

Remove the detergent dispenser drawer completely and give it a good rinse every few weeks. Wipe away any caked-on residue. This prevents mold growth and keeps dispensers working smoothly.

Deodorize with Baking Soda

For a fresh scent in your washer, sprinkle 1 cup baking soda directly into the empty drum. Run a hot cycle to dissolve and distribute. The baking soda naturally deodorizes and absorbs smells.

Dry Wet Parts with a Fan

If your machine’s gasket or door regularly get wet with laundry residue, set up a fan nearby after use. Aiming it directly at the washer will help all parts dry thoroughly between cycles.

Wipe with White Vinegar

For spot cleaning between deep cleans, dip a microfiber cloth in undiluted white vinegar and wipe down any soiled parts of the washer. This removes grime and disinfects.

Staying on top of washing machine cleaning is a chore, but it’s essential for odor-free laundry. Schedule time each month to tackle built-up dirt, mildew, and residue. Your activewear will smell fresh, and you’ll extend the life of your washer.

Replace Old, Worn-Out Gym Clothes

If you find certain activewear items retaining an odor no matter what you do, it may be time to replace them. Old, worn out gym clothes will develop a permanent stench that is difficult to remove completely. Invest in some fresh workout wear.

Inspect Closely for Damage

Take a good look at your smelly exercise clothes and check for thinning fabric, holes, frayed seams and excessive pilling. These are signs the garments are breaking down and can’t be restored.

Consider Fabric Type

Certain fabrics like cotton tend to show sweat stains and odors more over time. Synthetic blends with polyester, nylon or spandex last longer. Replace old cottons with performance fabrics.

Update Your Go-To Pieces

Think about the staples you wear multiple times per week like shorts, shirts and sports bras. Focus first on replacing frequently worn items that see a lot of sweat.

Don’t Forget Shoes and Gear

It’s not just clothes that wear out. Replace smelly old athletic shoes, gloves, pads and helmets. These absorb a lot of sweat and need to be swapped out periodically.

Consider an Adjustable Wardrobe

As your fitness routine changes over time, so does your needs. Invest in versatile activewear that can be layered and adapted as your body and activities evolve.

Shop Off-Season Sales

Timing your shopping strategically can save money. Look for clearance sales at the end of each season to score discounts. Stock up on spring clothes in the fall and vice versa.

Trial Wash New Items First

When buying new workout wear, be sure to wash items a few times before wearing to exercise. This pre-shrinks clothes and removes any chemical residues that could impact odor resistance.

Donate Gently Used Items

Rather than trashing old activewear, consider donating usable pieces to charity. Others may benefit from clothes you can no longer restore.

Retiring ratty, permanently smelly gym clothes helps ensure your workout wear stays fresh. Replace worn out garments with new pieces made of technical fabrics. Shop strategically to revamp your activewear cost-effectively.