Here are some helpful tips to help keep your sportswear clean and tidy.
1. Soak clothes before washing
The odor from sportswear is caused by bacteria living on the skin that feed on sweat. Sweat gets absorbed into things, so they start to smell bad. White distilled vinegar, which contains acid, can help rid clothes of stinking bacteria. Mix vinegar and cold water in a 1: 4 ratio, soak clothes in this solution before washing and leave for 15-30 minutes.
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2. Wash your clothes after every sport
If you dry sweaty clothes before putting them on again, hoping for deodorant, it will not do anything well. After all, another layer will be added to the old layer of dirt, sweat, and bacteria, causing an even stronger smell.
If suddenly you cannot wash things right away, soak them in an acetic-water solution, rinse and dry. Alternatively, dry them before putting them in the laundry basket to prevent mold. Remember, these methods are not a substitute for washing. This will only help not to aggravate the situation if, for some reason, the wash is postponed.
3. Use gels for washing sportswear
Most sportswear is made from elastane. This material repels water to keep your garment dry. However, when washed, it will absorb detergents. Some powders do not completely dissolve and clog into the seams, which can cause an allergic reaction. Therefore, it is better to use a special gel for washing sportswear.
Before washing, close all zips or buttons and turn them inside out. Add no more than two teaspoons of gel. Do not put too many items in the washing machine. If there are deodorant marks or sweat stains on your clothes, brush these areas with gel using a soft toothbrush before washing.
4. Do not add fabric softener
Do not use fabric softeners when washing sportswear. They coat the fabric, thereby trapping odors and bacteria. To remove the conditioner from your clothes, you will have to wash them a few more times. Moreover, it destroys the elastic properties of sportswear.
Use a home remedy to soften your clothes. Add ½ cup distilled white vinegar to the conditioner drawer before the last rinse. The vinegar will not only soften the clothes but also rid them of the detergent residue.
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5. Wash sportswear in cold or warm water
The temperature of the water affects the structure of the fabric. Therefore, this detail should not be ignored. Cotton socks, towels, and T-shirts, however, need to be washed in hot water.
6. Air dry
If you decide to use the tumble dry mode, select the lowest temperature setting. Hot air can damage the fabric, reduce its elasticity, and cause it to shrink.
Adapted and translated by Wiki Avenue Staff
Sources: Life hacker
