6 Genius Hacks for Deodorising Workout Clothes Naturally

We've all been there, your gym session leaves you feeling energised, but your activewear? Not so much. That once-fresh top is now a reminder of every rep, run, and roundhouse kick. If your laundry basket is full of sweaty gear that still smells even after a wash, you're definitely not alone.

Eliminating sweat odour from gym clothes can be a real challenge, especially because synthetic, moisture-wicking fabrics used in workout gear are designed to trap sweat, which often harbours bacteria. Over time, this leads to persistent odours that standard washing alone can't remove.

However, don't worry; natural, simple solutions are readily available to you. In this blog, we'll guide you through smart, chemical-free hacks for deodorising workout clothes, including how to tackle tough smells and prevent sweat odours in laundry. These tips will help you maintain fresher, longer-lasting gym clothes with less effort.

If you're struggling to keep your activewear smelling fresh, these easy and natural hacks can make a big difference. From pre-wash soaks to essential oils, here's how to level up your laundry routine:

1. Wash Immediately (Or Store Smartly)

Leaving sweaty gym clothes in a gym bag or laundry hamper for too long is one of the main reasons odours linger. The longer they sit, the more time bacteria have to thrive.

If you can't wash them immediately:

• Hang the clothes to air out instead of sealing them in a bag
• Use a breathable mesh laundry bag for short-term storage
• Rinse clothes in water after your workout to reduce sweat buildup

Taking quick action is crucial for removing odour from sportswear and avoiding additional laundry headaches later.

2. Soak Before Washing

Starting with a pre-wash soak can significantly improve the cleaning quality of your gym clothes. It helps loosen odour-causing bacteria and prepares the fabric for a deeper wash.

Here's a Simple Soak Solution:

• Fill a bucket with water
• Add one cup of white vinegar
• Add half a cup of baking soda

Let your gym clothes soak for at least 20-30 minutes before washing. This combination works wonders in eliminating sweat odour from gym clothes by neutralising bacteria and breaking down body oils that cling to synthetic materials.

3. Use Natural Deodorisers Like Baking Soda

When it comes to deodorising workout clothes, baking soda has been one of the most effective household heroes. It's a natural, budget-friendly, and effective way to balance pH levels.

You Can:

• Add half a cup directly into the drum of your washing machine.
• Sprinkle a small amount over damp clothes before adding them to the wash.

Baking soda helps lift stubborn odours and enhances the performance of your regular detergent.

4. Turn Clothes Inside Out Before Washing

This simple trick is often overlooked, but it's essential for removing odour from sportswear.

Sweat, oil, and bacteria accumulate on the inside of gym clothes, not on the outside. Turning your clothes inside out before washing makes sure that water and detergent reach the contaminated areas.

Combine this step with a cold water wash and a gentle cycle to preserve the elasticity and colour of your clothes.

5. Avoid Fabric Softeners

It may seem counterintuitive, but using fabric softener on your gym gear can actually exacerbate odours. Here's why:

• Softeners leave a waxy coating on fabrics
• This reduces breathability and moisture-wicking ability
• Bacteria get trapped, resulting in more odour over time

If you want your clothes to feel softer without sacrificing freshness, use white vinegar during the rinsing cycle. It not only works as a natural softener but also helps kill odour-causing microbes.

6. Air Dry in Direct Sunlight

After washing, it's tempting to toss your clothes in the dryer, but that may not be the best move.

Sunlight is a powerful natural deodoriser. UV rays kill bacteria and help prevent sweat odour in laundry. If the weather allows, hang your workout gear outside to dry. The fresh air and natural light will also help avoid mildew or that musty post-dryer smell.

Avoid over-drying in machines, as it can break down the fibres in your gear, especially if it's made from synthetic fabrics like polyester or spandex.

Maintaining fresh-smelling gym gear is all about consistency. Here are a few bonus habits to work into your routine:

• Use sport-specific detergents made for technical fabrics
• Wash workout gear separately from heavy fabrics like jeans or towels
• Rinse clothes immediately after working out if you can't wash them straight away
• Never overload the washing machine; give your gear room to move

Eliminating sweat odour from gym clothes doesn't have to involve heavy-duty chemicals or expensive detergents. With basic household items like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils, you can gently yet effectively clean your workout clothes.

Best of all, these hacks don't just tackle current odours, they actively support sweat odour prevention in laundry, helping your activewear stay fresher over time. From air-drying in the sun to ditching fabric softeners and washing inside out, every step makes a difference.

So the next time your post-gym gear smells less than ideal, give these natural methods a try. Your clothes and your nose will definitely thank you.

Sources:

https://www.nike.com/in/a/take-care-workout-clothes

https://www.homesandgardens.com/life-design/cleaning-with-tea-tree-oil