When it comes to activewear, most people think the more expensive the garment, the better the quality. However, this is not always the case. You can do a few things to make your activewear last longer — and they don’t involve spending much money.
If you want your activewear to last, you must take care of it. Here are some tips for making your activewear last longer:
1. Don’t overdo it on the detergent.
Many people think that more detergent will make their clothes cleaner — but in reality, it can break down the fabric and shorten the life of your clothes. When washing activewear, use a mild detergent and avoid fabric softener, which can also break down the material.
You can also hand wash delicate items and line dry them to prolong their life further. Hand washing is also a good option for articles that are starting to show signs of wear and tear. Carefully spot-treating areas that are beginning to look worn will help prolong the life of your clothes.
Over washing is another common mistake people make when trying to prolong the life of their clothes. Washing your clothes too often can wear the fabric down, leading to holes and tears. If you can, only wash your clothes when they’re dirty.
2. Use soft water.
Having hard water can cause mineral deposits to build up on your clothes — which can lead to them breaking down more quickly. Some people recommend using vinegar to remove these deposits, but you can also use a water softener to make your water gentler on your clothes.
You can usually find water softener installation services at your local hardware store. This step may not be the most cost-effective for keeping sportswear in good condition, but it can help if you live in an area with hard water. This should also prolong the life of your other clothes and linen.
But you can also use distilled water for washing, as this will also be gentler on your clothes. Depending on where you live, distilled water may be more expensive than soft water — but it will prolong the life of your activewear.
3. Avoid the dryer.
If you can, avoid using the dryer for your activewear. The heat from the dryer can break down the fabric of your clothes and cause them to shrink. If you must use the dryer, use the lowest setting possible and take your clothes out as soon as they’re dry.
You may also want to consider investing in a drying rack, as this will allow your clothes to air dry without being exposed to the dryer’s heat. Drying racks come in various sizes and styles, so you can find one that fits your needs. You can usually find them at your local home goods store.
4. Don’t store sweaty clothes.
If you’re putting your clothes away after a workout, ensure they’re completely dry first. Storing sweaty clothes can lead to bacteria growth, which can break down the fabric of your clothes and cause them to smell.
If you can’t wash your clothes immediately, hang them up to dry or put them in a mesh bag until you can. This will help prevent bacteria growth and keep your clothes smelling fresh. Once you’ve washed your clothes, dry them thoroughly before storing them.
5. Rotate your wardrobe.
If you wear the same few pieces of activewear all the time, they will start showing signs of wear and tear more quickly. By rotating your wardrobe, you’ll give each piece of clothing a chance to rest — which will help them last longer.
You don’t need a vast wardrobe to rotate your clothes, but having a few different options will help prolong the life of your clothes. And if you have specific pieces of activewear that you only wear for certain activities, make sure to wash them after each use. This will help remove any sweat or bacteria that could cause the fabric to break down.
6. Follow the care instructions.
Finally, when you buy new activewear, make sure to read the care instructions carefully. Different fabrics require different care, and following the instructions will help your clothes last longer.
For example, some activewear is made with moisture-wicking fabric that helps keep you cool and dry during your workout. But if you don’t wash this fabric regularly, the sweat and bacteria can build up and cause the material to break down.
So, ensure you know how to care for your activewear before wearing it. This will help you prolong the life of your clothes and keep them looking and smelling fresh.
By following these tips, you can prolong your activewear’s life and ensure it lasts as long as possible. Activewear is an investment, and taking care of it will help you get the most out of your money. So, don’t neglect your clothes — follow these tips and take care of them, and they’ll take care of you.
