Keep Workout Clothes Fresh Between Washes
Ever pulled your favorite pair of leggings or performance tee out of the hamper and caught a whiff of something… off? We’ve all been there. Figuring out how to keep workout clothes from smelling—even between washes—is a game-changer for staying fresh, whether you’re hitting the gym or running errands post-sweat.
Workout gear, especially if made from the wrong material or washed with the wrong detergent, can become a breeding ground for odor-causing bacteria. But with a few smart swaps and routines, you can keep your gear feeling and smelling fresher, longer.
1. Choose the Right Fabric: Moisture-Wicking Is a Must
Not all workout clothes are created equal. Regular cotton traps moisture and bacteria, making it more likely to smell between wears. If you’re serious about workout clothes odor prevention, opt for moisture-wicking fabrics specifically engineered for athletic use. These materials pull sweat away from your skin and dry faster—reducing the chance for odors to set in.
Bonus tip: Even within activewear, higher-quality brands or those built for performance (rather than fashion) tend to handle sweat better. Choose gear that’s made to move—and breathe.
2. Use Antiperspirant (and Try Glycolic Acid)
Prevent the stink before it starts. Applying a clinical-strength antiperspirant can reduce the amount of sweat your body produces—especially in odor-prone areas like your underarms or lower back. If you’re dealing with more persistent body odor, try glycolic acid wipes or solutions on clean skin before workouts. They help lower skin pH and reduce the bacteria that cause bad smells.
Just make sure to patch test first and don’t overdo it—especially on sensitive skin.
3. Don’t Overdo the Detergent
More detergent doesn’t equal a better clean. In fact, using too much detergent—especially on tightly-woven athleisure—can leave behind residue that traps odor. If you’re wondering how to de-stink workout clothes, one of the best hacks is surprisingly simple: use less.
Stick to the recommended amount (or slightly less), especially if you’re washing smaller or sweat-heavy loads. And always make sure your washer is rinsing thoroughly.
4. Liquid Detergent Can Work—If It’s the Right Kind
There’s a common myth that powder detergents are always better for odor control—but that’s not generally the case, especially with high-efficiency machines and cold washes. Liquid detergents can work just as well (or even better) if they’re formulated specifically for the job.
The key is to avoid standard liquid detergents that are built for everyday cotton and lightly soiled clothes. Instead, look for a high-performance liquid detergent designed for activewear. These are engineered to penetrate the tight weave of technical fabrics, dissolve body oils, and target bacteria at the source.
5. Review Your Detergent: Is It Fighting Odors or Masking Them?
A lot of mainstream detergents are built for average laundry—not technical fabrics soaked with sweat and bacteria. Worse, many rely on fragrance to mask odors instead of actually removing them. If your clothes still smell musty or sweaty after washing, it’s time to ask: is your detergent really doing its job?
Our pro tip: Choose a detergent designed specifically for activewear (like ours). It’s formulated to de-stink rather than disguise—and it’s gentle enough to protect the stretch and feel of your favorite gear.
For deep cleaning tips, check out our guide on How to Wash Workout Clothes and see our list of the Best Laundry Detergents for Activewear.
Keeping your workout clothes from smelling between washes isn’t about doing more, it’s about doing things smarter—choosing the right fabrics, using targeted products, and refining your wash routine.
Want to stay fresh from squat rack to smoothie bar? Start by upgrading your detergent—and rethink your post-workout laundry habits.
