How to Care for Your Activewear: Tips for Long-Lasting Performance

Your favorite leggings, sports bras, and bodysuits work hard for you—through sweaty workouts, long runs, and everything in between. But how you care for them makes all the difference in how long they last and how well they perform. Proper activewear care not only extends the life of your gear but also keeps it looking and smelling fresh, so you can feel confident every time you suit up.

In this guide, we’ll share practical tips for washing, drying, and storing your activewear, along with advice on handling delicate fabrics and preventing odor buildup. Whether you’re a gym regular or a weekend warrior, these simple habits will keep your workout wardrobe in top shape.

Why Activewear Care Matters

Activewear is made from high-performance fabrics like nylon, spandex, and polyester, which are designed to wick moisture, provide stretch, and offer support. However, these materials are also more delicate than everyday cotton. Harsh detergents, hot water, and high-heat drying can break down the elastic fibers, causing your leggings to lose their shape and your sports bras to lose their support.

By following proper care instructions, you not only protect your investment but also ensure that your activewear continues to perform at its best. For example, the Umber Compressive High-Rise Legging is engineered to provide a snug, supportive fit, but that fit depends on the integrity of the fabric. With the right care, you can enjoy your favorite pieces for years.

• Always check the care label before washing.
• Separate activewear from heavy items like jeans to avoid friction.
• Turn garments inside out to protect the outer surface.

How to Wash Activewear: Step-by-Step

The golden rule of activewear care is to wash in cold water. Hot water can cause elastic fibers to break down and can set in odors. Use a gentle cycle on your washing machine, or hand wash if you prefer a more delicate approach. Choose a mild detergent that is free of bleach, fabric softeners, and strong fragrances, as these can clog the fabric's moisture-wicking properties.

When washing, turn your activewear inside out and fasten any hooks or straps to prevent snagging. For items like the Silk V Neck Bralette, a mesh laundry bag can provide extra protection. Avoid using fabric softener altogether—it coats the fibers and reduces breathability.

For stubborn stains, pre-treat with a small amount of detergent or a specialized sports wash. Never use chlorine bleach, as it can yellow or weaken the fabric.

• Use cold water (below 30°C/86°F) for all activewear.
• Choose a gentle cycle or hand wash.
• Skip fabric softener and bleach.
• Pre-treat stains before washing.

Drying Your Activewear the Right Way

Heat is the enemy of activewear. High heat from a dryer can shrink, warp, and break down the elastic fibers, leading to sagging and loss of shape. The safest method is to air dry your gear. Lay items flat on a clean towel or hang them on a drying rack, away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.

If you must use a dryer, choose the lowest heat setting and remove items while they are still slightly damp. However, for items like the Stone Compressive Pocket Legging, air drying is highly recommended to maintain the compressive fit and pocket functionality.

Never wring out your activewear, as this can damage the fabric. Instead, gently press out excess water with a towel.

• Air dry flat or hang to dry.
• Avoid direct sunlight to prevent fading.
• If using a dryer, use low heat and remove promptly.
• Never wring out wet activewear.

Storing and Maintaining Your Activewear

Proper storage is just as important as washing and drying. Fold your activewear rather than hanging it, as hanging can stretch out the fabric over time. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. For bras, consider stacking them in a drawer to maintain their shape.

To keep your activewear smelling fresh between washes, make sure it is completely dry before storing. You can also use a fabric refresher spray or a small sachet of baking soda in your drawer to absorb odors.

Regularly inspect your activewear for signs of wear, such as pilling, thinning, or loss of elasticity. When you notice these signs, it may be time to replace the item to ensure you get the support and performance you need.

• Fold activewear instead of hanging.
• Store in a cool, dry place.
• Ensure items are fully dry before storing.
• Replace activewear when it shows signs of wear.

Special Care for Delicate Fabrics

Some activewear pieces feature delicate details like lace, mesh, or straps that require extra care. For example, the Java Bandeau Bra has a seamless design that can be easily damaged by rough handling. Always use a mesh laundry bag for such items and choose the gentle cycle.

For bodysuits and unitards, like the Gumdrop Amelia V-Neck Bodysuit, pay attention to the snaps and closures. Fasten them before washing to prevent snagging. Hand washing is often the best choice for these delicate pieces, as it gives you more control over the process.

If you’re unsure about the care instructions for a specific item, always refer to the label or the manufacturer’s website. When in doubt, err on the side of caution with cold water and air drying.

• Use mesh bags for delicate items.
• Fasten all closures before washing.
• Hand wash when possible.
• Check the care label for specific instructions.

Caring for your activewear doesn’t have to be complicated. By following these simple tips—washing in cold water, air drying, and storing properly—you can extend the life of your favorite pieces and keep them performing at their best. Remember, a little extra care goes a long way in maintaining the quality and comfort of your gear. So next time you reach for your go-to leggings or sports bra, you’ll know exactly how to keep them in top condition.