Stop the Stench – Keep Workout Clothes Smelling Fresh

Yay for you! You’ve been religious with your exercise routine – never missing a workout and staying determined and dedicated to your health and fitness. All that hard work and sweat is also paying off with supremely stinky workout clothes. Sweaty clothes left in a gym bag or laundry basket are ideal breeding grounds for the bacteria which cause that smell.

Your best defense is to prevent the smells from starting in the first place because once there, it’s very hard to get rid of completely. If you’re a big sweater, it may be beneficial to invest in some high quality workout wear. Made from special synthetic fibers that not only maintain the shape and support of the clothing, but also wick away wetness and dry quickly. Some brands even incorporate antimicrobial agents within the fibers of the clothing to prevent the bacteria growing in the first place. Although a bit pricey, these workout clothes will last a very long time as long as you follow the care instructions and some tips below.

Once those clothes are sweaty it’s best to wash them with an antibacterial detergent (Tide Sport/Oxyclean) immediately. However, if this is not always possible, you can rinse out the clothes right away in hot water or even in the shower with you.  If that won’t work, another quick alternative is to sprinkle baking soda on your clothes or use an antimicrobial spray (Febreeze Antibacterial Spray for clothes). Make sure to really hit the wet spots (pits and crotch) and don’t forget those sneakers.

For clothing that already has a lasting funkiness, try presoaking them in water with white vinegar, baking soda or Borax before washing in hot water. In seriously smelly cases, add some vinegar or borax to the wash along with the antibacterial detergent.  A quick note – do NOT mix bleach and ammonia – the reaction produces toxic gases. Be aware of washing instructions because hot water and high temperature dryers can weaken elastics and compromise the fibers in the clothing.

Just remember, even the highest quality workout clothes have a lifespan.  If all attempts fail, do yourself (and your workout neighbors) a favor and update your workout wardrobe.