How to Wash Gym Clothes for Men: 9 Tips That Actually Work
If you’ve ever unzipped your gym bag and nearly passed out from the stink, you already know the truth. Gym clothes for men are a different beast. They soak up sweat, trap odour, and hold on to body oils like it’s their job. And if you wash them like your everyday cotton tee? You’re wrecking your gear.
Here’s how to clean your gym gear properly so it stays fresh, lasts longer, and performs like it should.
1. Don’t Let Them Sit Around
Leaving your sweaty gear in a pile or stuffed in a bag is asking for trouble. That smell? It’s bacteria partying on your favourite gym shorts. Rank.
What to do:
- Rinse your gear in cold water after training if you can’t wash it straight away
- Hang it up or lay it flat to dry, preferably outside
- Use a breathable gym bag to avoid locking in moisture
Why it matters:
The longer sweat sits, the more damage it does. Bacteria eats away at fabric and causes odours that won’t budge, even after washing.
2. Turn Clothes Inside Out
Sweat and bacteria mostly build up on the inside of your gear. If you chuck everything in the wash the usual way, you’re missing the problem areas.
Why flip them:
- Detergent reaches sweaty zones better
- Helps protect the outer fabric from pilling and fading
- Keeps logos and elastic intact for longer
Simple move. Big impact on keeping your gym clothes for men in top nick.
3. Use Cold Water, Not Hot
Hot water might feel like it’s doing a better job, but it actually ruins your activewear. Most gym clothes for men are made from synthetic fibres that can’t handle high temps.
Stick with cold water because it:
- Preserves elasticity and shape
- Prevents shrinking
- Saves energy
Cold washes keep your gear looking fresh and fitting right, even after brutal workouts.
4. Choose the Right Detergent
Regular detergent? Not ideal. Most are packed with fake scents that mask the smell instead of killing the bacteria.
Look for:
- Enzyme-based formulas made for activewear
- Fragrance-free or pH-balanced options
- Detergents that break down sweat, not just cover it up
Pro tip:
Once a week, soak your gym clothes in warm water with a scoop of sports detergent for a deeper clean.
5. Ditch the Fabric Softener
Fabric softeners and gym gear don’t mix. They coat the fabric in a waxy film that blocks breathability and locks in stink.
Instead:
- Add half a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle
- It kills odour, breaks down residue, and softens naturally
Keep your moisture-wicking fabrics doing their job by skipping the softener every time.
6. Use the Gentle Cycle
Performance fabrics don’t need a spin cycle from hell. The rougher the wash, the quicker your gear breaks down.
Here’s what to do:
- Choose delicate or gentle wash settings
- Don’t overload the machine
- Use a mesh laundry bag to reduce snags and tangles
Let your gym clothes breathe while they wash, they’ll thank you for it.
7. Air Dry It
The dryer is where good gym gear goes to die. High heat weakens fibres, kills stretch, and shrinks clothes that were meant to move.
Better move:
- Hang dry your gym gear in a breezy spot
- Keep it out of direct sun to avoid fading
- If you absolutely need the dryer, use low heat or air fluff and pull it out while still slightly damp
Air drying keeps your gym clothes for men feeling and fitting like new.
8. Wash Gym Gear Separately
Chuck your gym gear in with jeans or bath towels and you’re asking for lint, friction and a fast death for your activewear.
Why keep it separate:
- Prevents wear from heavy fabrics
- Avoids cross-contamination from dirt and bacteria
- Makes sure your gear gets the right wash cycle
Wash your activewear with similar fabrics like running gear, compression tights or swimwear.
9. Pre-Treat the Stink and Stains
Some smells just won’t quit. Sweat-heavy areas like armpits and waistbands need extra attention.
Try this:
- Baking soda paste: Apply to smelly spots and leave for 30 mins
- Vinegar soak: One cup of vinegar in cold water, soak for an hour before washing
- Lemon juice and salt: Rub into problem areas to naturally kill bacteria
These quick fixes can revive even your oldest gym shirts and shorts.
Bonus Tip: Rotate Your Gear
Wearing the same kit every day wears it out faster and builds up odour over time.
Solution:
Get a few solid sets in rotation. Aim for 4 to 5 go-to outfits.
Why it works:
- Less frequent washing means longer life
- Better hygiene
- You’re never stuck without a clean set
Want to Buy Quality Gym Clothes for Men?
At Man or Beast, we got your back. Our gym shorts for men, plus our sick graphic tees are made to handle sweat, movement and everything in between.
FAQs
Should I wash gym clothes after every workout?
Yes. Leaving sweat and bacteria on the fabric breaks it down and causes lasting odour.
Can I use bleach on gym gear?
No. It’s too harsh and will damage the fibres. Use vinegar instead.
Why do my gym clothes still stink after washing?
You’re likely using the wrong detergent or not washing them soon enough. Use cold water, enzyme detergent and pre-treat odour zones.
Is hand-washing better?
It’s great for premium pieces or delicate items. Just use cold water and activewear detergent.
Can I iron gym clothes?
Avoid it. High heat ruins synthetics. If you must, use low heat and a cloth between the iron and the fabric.
