Most people don’t think twice about tossing their sweaty gym clothes into the laundry basket after a workout. But as conversations around sustainability evolve, the question of how often we should actually wash our workout gear has become more complex than ever.
Some experts insist that washing after every wear is the only way to maintain proper hygiene, while others suggest that re-wearing your gear a few times before laundering isn’t just environmentally responsible, but also better for the longevity of your clothes. A French government agency even put out a statement earlier this year suggesting that people only wash their “sport clothes” after three wears, which seems a little on the smelly side, in our opinion.
So, how often should you really be washing your activewear?
One of the biggest factors in determining the washing frequency of your gym clothes is the type of fabric they are made from. Most modern workout gear is designed with synthetic, moisture-wicking materials like polyester and nylon, which excel at pulling sweat away from your skin but also have a tendency to trap bacteria and odours.
These fabrics, while great for performance, require more frequent washing than natural fibres like cotton, which absorbs moisture and dries more slowly but doesn’t harbour bacteria quite as aggressively. If your workout gear is primarily synthetic, experts recommend washing it after every use to prevent the buildup of unpleasant smells and potential skin irritants.
The type of exercise you do also plays a big role in how often you should wash your gear. A high-intensity session that leaves you drenched in sweat warrants an immediate wash, but if you’re engaging in a low-sweat activity like yoga or weightlifting, you may be able to get away with wearing the same outfit twice.
The same principle applies to outer layers like jackets or hoodies, which don’t come into direct contact with your skin and can be worn multiple times before needing a wash. However, things like socks, underwear and sports bras should be washed after every use, regardless of how much you sweat.
Another factor worth considering – and the reason for the French government’s stance on the topic – is the environmental impact of frequent washing. Washing machines consume a lot of water and energy, and the microplastics from synthetic activewear do cause pollution.
In an effort to be more eco-conscious, some experts suggest re-wearing gym clothes a few times before washing – provided they’re thoroughly aired out and don’t have an obvious odour. Hanging your gear in a well-ventilated space or even outside can help dry out sweat and kill some bacteria, extending the time between washes.
We can’t really give you a definitive answer on how often you should wash your workout clothes. The answer depends on your exercise habits, the material of your clothes and the value you place on being eco-friendly. If you’re sweating heavily or wearing synthetic fabrics, washing after every use is the best approach. If your workouts are light, your clothes don’t smell and you’re mindful of environmental impact, it’s possible to get away with re-wearing them a few times before throwing them in the laundry.
How often should you wash your workout clothes?
You should wash workout clothes after every use if they are soaked in sweat or made from synthetic, moisture-wicking fabrics. However, for low-sweat activities like yoga or stretching, you may be able to wear them twice before washing, as long as they don’t smell.
Is it okay to re-wear gym clothes without washing them?
Yes, if your gym clothes aren’t doused in sweat, you can re-wear them once or twice, especially if they’re made from odour-resistant fabrics. To minimise bacteria buildup, let them air dry completely between uses.
What happens if you don’t wash your workout clothes often enough?
Failing to wash workout clothes regularly can lead to bacteria and fungi buildup, causing odours, skin irritation and even infections. Sweat and dead skin cells trapped in fabrics create an ideal breeding ground for germs.
Can I wash workout clothes with regular laundry?
It’s best to wash workout clothes separately or with similar performance fabrics. Using a gentle, cold-water cycle and avoiding fabric softeners will help preserve the moisture-wicking properties of activewear.
How do I prevent my gym clothes from smelling bad?
To keep workout clothes fresh, wash them as soon as possible after wearing, avoid fabric softeners, and air-dry them thoroughly. Adding white vinegar or baking soda to your laundry can help eliminate odours.
