What's the best way to wash workout clothes?

The biggest mistake people make with workout clothes is using too much detergent. Synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon are designed to wick moisture away, but they also trap oils from your skin and bacteria. Excess detergent doesn’t rinse out completely and leaves a residue that actually makes the smell worse over time.

Use cold water — hot water sets protein-based stains (sweat) and can damage spandex and other stretch fibers. A gentle cycle is fine; the friction from a regular cycle doesn’t help much with synthetic fabrics and wears them out faster. Turn everything inside out before washing to help release trapped sweat and prevent pilling.

For clothes that already have a stubborn odor, a vinegar soak works well. Fill a sink or bucket with one part white vinegar and four parts cold water. Soak for 15 to 30 minutes, then wash as usual. The vinegar breaks down the bacteria that cause odor, and the smell of the vinegar itself disappears during the rinse.

Air drying is the single best thing you can do to extend the life of workout gear. Dryer heat breaks down elastic fibers, causing leggings and sports bras to lose their stretch within months. If you must use a dryer, use the lowest heat setting or a no-heat air fluff cycle.

A reliable sports detergent is a small investment that makes this easier: sports detergent.