Say Goodbye to Stinky Workout Clothes: A Step-by-Step Guide

AvatarByGenny Wilkinson Priest

Sweating it out at the gym or on the field is great for our overall health and well-being, but it’s not so great for our workout clothes. If you’ve ever found yourself recoiling at the stench emanating from your favorite workout attire, you’re not alone. We’ve all been there, wondering how to get rid of that stubborn stink that just won’t seem to go away. Fortunately, there are some simple and effective methods to banish the odor and keep your gear smelling fresh for every sweat session. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting out on your fitness journey, read on to discover how to get stink out of workout clothes and say goodbye to smelly gym gear forever.

The Science Behind Stinky Workout Clothes

Stinky workout clothes are a common problem among many fitness enthusiasts. You may have experienced it yourself – no matter how many times you wash your gym clothes, they always seem to have an unpleasant odor. So, what exactly causes this stink?

The main reason for the foul smell in workout clothes is bacteria build-up. When we exercise, our body produces sweat which contains water, salt, and various minerals. This sweat is then absorbed by our clothing and creates a warm and moist environment – the perfect breeding ground for bacteria.

The bacteria present on our skin feeds on the sweat and releases smelly compounds known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These VOCs are responsible for that infamous stinky gym clothes smell. The more we sweat and wear our workout clothes without proper washing, the more bacteria accumulates, intensifying the odor.

Moreover, modern workout clothes are often made from synthetic materials such as polyester and nylon. These materials are great at wicking away moisture but they also tend to trap sweat and oils from our skin, making it easier for bacteria to thrive.

Now that we understand the science behind stinky workout clothes, let’s delve into how we can effectively get rid of that unpleasant odor.

Proper Washing Techniques

The key to eliminating stink from workout clothes is proper washing techniques. Simply throwing them in with your regular laundry is not enough. Here are some tips to ensure your gym gear comes out fresh and clean:

1. Pre-soak: Before washing your sweaty workout clothes, pre-soaking them in cold water with a detergent or stain remover can help loosen any buildup of sweat or oils.

2. Wash in Cold Water: Hot water may seem like the best way to get rid of bacteria but it can actually set in odors rather than removing them. Washing your gym clothes in cold water is just as effective and more gentle on the fabric.

3. Avoid Fabric Softeners: Fabric softeners can leave a coating on your workout clothes, making it harder for water and detergent to penetrate and clean. This can lead to lingering stink even after washing. Instead, use vinegar as a natural fabric softener.

4. Use Activewear Detergents: There are specialized detergents made specifically for activewear that contain enzymes that break down sweat and oil buildup. These are highly effective in eliminating stink from workout clothes.

5. Hang Dry: After washing, avoid throwing your gym clothes in the dryer. The high heat can damage the fabric and set in odors, defeating the purpose of washing them. Instead, hang them to air dry in a well-ventilated area.

Natural Remedies for Stinky Workout Clothes

If you prefer natural methods or have sensitive skin, there are several home remedies that can help get rid of the stench in your workout clothes:

1. Baking Soda: Adding 1/2 cup of baking soda to your laundry can help neutralize odors and act as a natural deodorizer.

2. Lemon Juice: The citric acid in lemon juice can help break down sweat and oils while leaving a fresh scent behind. Add 1/4 cup of lemon juice to your wash cycle for best results.

3. Vinegar Soak: Soaking your gym clothes in a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar for 30 minutes before washing can help eliminate bacteria and odors.

4. Sunlight Treatment: If you’re dealing with particularly stubborn smell, hanging your workout clothes out in direct sunlight for a few hours can help kill bacteria thanks to the UV rays.

Preventing Stinky Workout Clothes

Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to getting rid of stinky workout clothes. Here are some tips to help prevent odors from building up in the first place:

1. Wash After Every Use: Avoid wearing your workout clothes multiple times without washing them. This will prevent bacteria from building up and keep your gym gear smelling fresh.

2. Dry Fully Before Storing: Make sure your workout gear is completely dry before storing them in a dark, damp gym bag or closet. This will prevent bacteria from thriving in the moist environment.

3. Don’t Store Wet Clothes: It’s important to wash and dry sweaty workout clothes as soon as possible. Storing wet or damp clothes can lead to mold and mildew growth, causing an even worse smell.

4. Rotate Your Clothes: If you exercise daily, try to rotate between different sets of workout clothes to give each one time to fully dry and air out in between uses.

Sweating during workouts is inevitable but having stinky gym clothes doesn’t have to be. By understanding the science behind the odor and following proper washing techniques, you can easily get rid of the stink. Additionally, incorporating natural remedies and proper prevention methods can help keep your workout clothes smelling fresh for longer periods of time. Remember, keeping your gym gear clean is not only important for eliminating

Why Do Workout Clothes Sometimes Smell Bad?

When we work out, our bodies produce sweat and oils that get absorbed into our workout clothes. These substances can mix with bacteria from our skin, making our clothes smell unpleasant. In addition, when we wear tight-fitting workout clothes, they can trap sweat and moisture, providing the perfect environment for bacteria to grow and cause odor. Synthetic fabrics, such as nylon and polyester, also tend to hold onto odors more than natural fibers like cotton.

How To Prevent Stinky Workout Clothes

The best way to keep your workout clothes from smelling bad is to prevent the odor in the first place. This can be done by taking a few simple steps:

1. Wash Your Clothes After Each Use: The easiest way to prevent bad odors in your workout clothes is to wash them immediately after each use. This will remove any sweat, oil or bacteria before they have a chance to set in and cause an odor.

2. Choose The Right Detergent: Regular detergents may not be strong enough to remove odors from your workout clothes. It is best to use a detergent that is specifically designed for sports gear or activewear.

3. Avoid Using Fabric Softeners: While fabric softeners make clothes feel softer, they can also create a barrier on fabric that traps odors. Instead, opt for vinegar or baking soda added during the rinse cycle as a natural fabric softener.

4. Hang Your Clothes To Dry: Throwing damp workout clothes into a pile or laundry hamper can result in bacteria growth and moldy smells. It is best to hang your clothes up after use and allow them to air dry before putting them in the laundry.

5. Don’t Leave Clothes In The Gym Bag: After working out, it’s tempting to throw your sweaty clothes into your gym bag until you get home. However, this can lead to a buildup of moisture and bacteria, making your clothes smell worse. Instead, bring a plastic bag with you to store your workout clothes until you can wash them.

How To Get Rid Of The Smell In Workout Clothes

If you’ve already noticed a bad odor in your workout clothes, don’t worry – there are ways to get rid of it. Here are some effective methods for removing odors from your workout attire:

1. Pre-Soak With Vinegar: If the smell is particularly stubborn, soak your clothes in a mixture of water and white vinegar for 30 minutes before washing them. The vinegar will help break down the bacteria and remove the odor.

2. Use Baking Soda: Baking soda is another natural deodorizer that can be added to the wash cycle or used as a pre-soak to eliminate odors from workout clothes.

3. Try Lemon Juice: The citric acid in lemon juice acts as a natural disinfectant and can help neutralize bad odors. Add half a cup of lemon juice to your laundry along with detergent to remove bad smells from your workout clothes.

4. Use Enzyme-Based Cleaners: These cleaners contain enzymes that target and break down sweat, oils, and bacteria in fabrics, which can help get rid of stubborn odors.

5. Wash With Hot Water: Hot water helps break down oils and bacteria more effectively than cold water. Make sure to follow the care instructions on clothing labels before washing with hot water.

Tips To Keep Your Workout Clothes Smelling Fresh

Now that you know how to remove bad smells from your workout clothes let’s look at some tips to help you keep them smelling fresh every time:

1. Air Out Your Gym Bag: After each use, remember to take out sweaty gym clothes from your bag and allow it to air out before using it again.

2. Store Clothes In A Well-Ventilated Area: Keeping your workout clothes in a dark and damp closet can cause them to smell worse. Store them in a well-ventilated area, like an open shelf, to allow the fabric to breathe.

3. Skip The Fabric Softener: As mentioned earlier, fabric softeners can create a barrier on fabrics that trap odors. It is best to avoid using them on workout clothes.

4. Add Essential Oils To Your Laundry: Adding a few drops of your favorite essential oil to the wash cycle can help mask any lingering odors and leave your clothes with a pleasant scent.

5. Wash Your Gym Clothes Together: It’s best not to mix your workout clothes with regular laundry as the oils and bacteria from activewear can transfer onto other clothes, causing them to smell bad too.

Final Thoughts

Keeping stinky workout clothes at bay may seem like a constant battle, but it is important to maintain good hygiene and prevent bacteria growth. Be sure to implement these tips into your laundry routine and invest in proper activewear detergents for fresh smelling workout attire every time!

Q: What causes the stink in workout clothes?
A: The unpleasant smell in workout clothes is caused by bacteria and sweat that have accumulated on the fabric, particularly in areas where sweat is trapped.

Q: How can I prevent my workout clothes from smelling bad?
A: To prevent your workout clothes from smelling bad, make sure to wash them after each use and hang them to dry instead of leaving them in a pile. Also, try using a detergent specifically designed for active wear.

Q: Can I use regular laundry detergent for my workout clothes?
A: Regular laundry detergent may not be effective in removing odor from workout clothes due to its inability to remove sweat and bacteria. It is recommended to use a specialized detergent for active wear.

Q: How often should I wash my workout clothes?
A: It is best to wash your workout clothes after each use, especially if you tend to sweat heavily during your workouts. If you can’t wash them immediately, at least hang them to dry before throwing them in the laundry basket.

Q: Are there any natural remedies for getting rid of stink in workout clothes?
A: Yes, there are some natural remedies that can help eliminate stink from workout clothes. These include soaking the clothes in a mixture of vinegar and water, using baking soda as a laundry booster, or adding essential oils like tea tree or lavender oil into the washing machine.

Q: What should I do if my workout clothes still smell after washing?
A: If your workout clothes still have a lingering odor even after washing, try soaking them in a solution of water and white vinegar for 30 minutes before washing again. You can also add half a cup of baking soda to the wash cycle. If the smell persists, it might be time to replace your old sports gear with new ones.

In conclusion, getting rid of the stink from workout clothes is a common issue faced by many athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Through this extensive discussion, we have learned that there are several effective methods to eliminate the foul odor and keep your workout clothes smelling fresh.

The first step is to understand the root cause of the stink, which is sweat and bacteria buildup. Therefore, it is crucial to properly clean and dry your workout clothes after each use. This can be done by using mild detergent, avoiding fabric softeners, and using a high-quality dryer or hang-drying them.

Moreover, incorporating natural approaches such as vinegar or baking soda in the laundry can also help neutralize the smell. Investing in high-quality moisture-wicking fabrics can also prevent odor-causing bacteria from thriving in your clothes.

Additionally, maintaining good hygiene habits such as showering after workouts and avoiding wearing clothes for extended periods can also help keep them odor-free. It is also important to note that prevention is key, so regularly cleaning your workout gear and avoiding leaving them in a damp environment can prevent the stink from developing.

Overall, by following these tips and tricks, you can effectively get rid of the stink from your workout clothes and enjoy fresh-smelling gear every time you hit the gym or go for

Author Profile

Avatar
Genny Wilkinson Priest
Genny Wilkinson Priest began her journey into Ashtanga yoga in 2000 while working as a journalist in her native New York City. Initially drawn to the practice for its physical benefits, Genny soon discovered the profound mental advantages, especially during the challenging period following the 9/11 terror attacks.

Which she covered as a journalist for Reuters. Her professional career took her to Singapore, where she wrote for Time Magazine, and then to Paris, before she finally settled in London.

As her family expanded to include four boys, Genny decided to leave full-time journalism to immerse herself in yoga studies. She achieved certification as a Shri K Pattabhi Jois Ashtanga Yoga Institute Authorised Level 1 teacher, a British Wheel of Yoga teacher, and a Yoga Alliance-certified teacher.Genny’s passion for yoga philosophy led her to pursue a Master’s Degree in the Traditions of Yoga and Meditation at SOAS in London.

From 2024, Genny Wilkinson Priest has started writing an informative blog on the “Niche Name” niche. She writes informative posts and answers queries on topics that people seek in the niche. This transition marks a significant shift from her previous focus on journalism and traditional media to a more interactive and digital form of communication.

Genny’s blog aims to provide valuable information and foster a community of yoga enthusiasts who can learn and grow together. Her extensive background in both journalism and yoga practice ensures that her content is both authoritative and engaging.