Leggings, sports sets, and other activewear items experience much more movement, sweat, and stretching in a week than regular clothing. If you care for them the same way you care for an everyday T-shirt, they might lose their shape, color, and comfortable feel sooner. In this article, you'll find practical steps on how to approach activewear care, from the moment you take it off after a workout to proper storage.
Why activewear needs different attention than regular items
During wear, activewear is exposed to more intense stretching, friction, and moisture than everyday clothing. The elastic materials from which leggings and sports sets are made retain their properties best when handled gently and according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Hasty or incorrect care can result in changes to the waistband's shape, seams, or material structure. Therefore, it's worth paying a little more attention to activewear care than to regular washing.
What to do with activewear immediately after a workout
What you do with your clothing immediately after exercising can be just as important as the washing itself. Don't leave damp clothing packed away for long in a closed gym bag – moisture evaporates less easily in a confined space and affects the material and seams for longer.
If you can't wash it right away, take the clothing out of the bag and let it air dry. Only then put it in the laundry basket.
Why the care label is the most important source of information
For every piece of activewear, the care label is the most reliable place to find instructions on how to wash, dry, and care for that specific product. Instructions may vary by material, processing, color, and product details.
If the general recommendations in this article differ from the instructions on the label, always follow the care label of the specific product.
How to prepare leggings and sports sets before washing
Before putting your activewear into the washing machine, take a moment to prepare it:
- Empty pockets and check for any keys, coins, or other items.
- Zip up zippers and fasten Velcro closures so they don't snag other items during washing.
- If the label instructions allow, you can turn leggings and printed items inside out.
- Check for any damage to the product that could worsen with washing.
How to sort colors and materials before washing
It's advisable to separate colored sports sets from light or white clothing, especially during the first washes. You can also separate more delicate elastic materials from coarse or rough textiles, such as terry towels or denim, which could mechanically stress them.
If you're unsure, sort your clothing at least by color and material type and then follow the care labels.
How to choose a washing method according to the care label
We deliberately do not specify exact temperatures, wash programs, or spin speeds here. These details may vary by specific product and can be found on its care label.
If you're unsure which washing method to choose, first check the meaning of the symbols on the label. These always take precedence over general recommendations from the internet.
Most common mistakes in activewear care
- Ignoring the care label and using one method for all materials.
- Leaving damp clothing in a closed bag for too long after a workout.
- Using an unsuitable product without checking if it's appropriate for the given material.
- Drying in a way not recommended by the manufacturer.
- Storing still damp clothing in a closed wardrobe or drawer.
How to approach drying activewear
Even when drying, the care label is the most reliable guide. It specifies whether the product is suitable for a tumble dryer or if another drying method is recommended.
Let the clothing dry completely before storing. Do not expose it to a drying method that contradicts the symbols or manufacturer's instructions.
How to properly store activewear
Only store completely dry clothing in your wardrobe or drawer. Keep leggings and sports sets in a dry place so they are not compressed for long periods under heavier items and do not come into contact with sharp objects that could damage the material or seams.
What to know about 75% nylon and 25% spandex material
Products from the PUSH collection are made from a blend of 75% nylon and 25% spandex. Nylon forms the main part of the material, and spandex gives it elasticity, allowing it to adapt to movement and the body shape.
Even with this combination, the most suitable care procedure is determined by the label of the specific product. More about the composition used can be found on the Materials page.
Quick activewear care checklist
- Check the care label before washing or drying the product.
- Don't leave damp clothing in a closed bag for long after a workout.
- Empty pockets and sort colors and materials before washing.
- Choose the washing method according to the label, not by guesswork.
- Follow the manufacturer's symbols for drying and any ironing.
- Store only completely dry clothing in a dry place.
Frequently asked questions about washing activewear
How often should I wash activewear?
The frequency depends on the intensity of wear and the manufacturer's instructions. After intense wear, it's advisable not to leave damp activewear closed for long and then care for it according to the label instructions.
What should I do with damp clothing after a workout?
Take it out of your gym bag as soon as possible and let it air dry until you can wash it. This limits the long-term effects of moisture on the material.
How do I wash sports leggings?
Follow the instructions on the care label of the specific leggings. This determines the appropriate washing method for the given material and processing.
How do I find the correct washing temperature?
You'll find the exact temperature on the product's care label. A universal temperature is not suitable for every type of activewear.
How to care for nylon and spandex?
For nylon and spandex material, follow the instructions on the specific product. More information can be found on the Material Care page.
Discover AURE activewear
If you want your activewear ready for both workouts and everyday wear, check out the PUSH collection – coordinated sets with shorts or leggings designed for movement and comfortable wear.
More about the composition can be found on the Materials page, more detailed recommendations on the Material Care page, answers to other questions in the FAQ section, and if you have questions, you can contact us via the Contact page.