How to Wash Nylon and Spandex Without Ruining the Stretch

Nylon and spandex are the unsung heroes of modern activewear. They give you that perfect stretch, moisture-wicking performance, and second-skin feel—but they also demand a bit of extra care. If you’ve ever pulled your favorite leggings from the wash only to find them saggy, smelly, or stiff, you’re not alone.

Learning how to wash nylon and spandex properly helps protect the fit, feel, and function of your clothes. This step-by-step guide will show you exactly how to clean and care for your synthetic gear—without ruining the fabric. Plus, we’ll share more pro tips from our full Activewear Wash Guide.

Why Nylon and Spandex Require Special Care

Nylon and spandex are synthetic materials, which means they behave differently than cotton or linen in the wash.

Here’s what makes them tricky:

• They repel water but cling to oils and sweat

• They’re sensitive to heat and harsh detergents

• They can lose elasticity when handled too roughly or dried improperly

That’s why it’s important to know how to wash nylon and spandex the right way—so you don’t end up shortening the lifespan of your gear.

Step 1: Turn Your Garments Inside Out

Before anything else, turn your items inside out. This:

• Protects the exterior of the fabric from pilling

• Targets sweat and odor trapped on the inside

• Reduces abrasion during the wash cycle

This small step can make a big difference over time.

Step 2: Wash in Cold Water Only

Hot water may seem like it gets your clothes “extra clean,” but it’s actually the enemy of nylon and spandex. Heat can:

• Break down the spandex fibers

• Cause shrinkage or warping

• Set in odors rather than removing them

Stick to cold water only and select a gentle or activewear cycle if your machine offers it.

Step 3: Use a Detergent Made for Synthetics

This is where many people go wrong. Regular detergents are designed for cotton and heavier fabrics—not synthetic blends. They often contain:

• Harsh surfactants

• Optical brighteners

• Heavy fragrances or softeners

These can build up on nylon and spandex, trapping odor and reducing breathability.

Instead, use a liquid detergent designed for synthetic or performance fabrics. For more details, check out our deep dive:
👉 How to Wash Your Favorite Activewear Without Ruining the Fabric

Step 4: Avoid Fabric Softeners at All Costs

Fabric softener is one of the worst things you can use on nylon and spandex. It creates a waxy coating that:

• Interferes with moisture-wicking

• Locks in odors

• Breaks down elasticity over time

Your clothes might feel softer at first, but they’ll wear out faster and start to stink sooner.

Step 5: Wash After Every Wear

Even if your gear doesn’t smell, sweat and oil build up fast on synthetic fabrics. These substances are hard to remove once they’ve set in, so don’t wait too long between washes.

• Always wash your nylon-spandex activewear after each use

• If you can’t wash right away, air dry them instead of stuffing them in a bag

This prevents bacteria from multiplying and helps avoid permanent odor.

Step 6: Pre-Treat Smelly Areas

Still noticing stubborn odors in the underarms, waistband, or inner thighs? Pre-treat them.

Here’s how:

• Apply a small amount of your synthetic-safe detergent directly to the area

• Let it sit for 15–30 minutes

• Then wash as usual

This can dramatically reduce lingering sweat smells that won’t budge with normal washing alone.

Step 7: Air Dry (No Exceptions)

Dryers are kryptonite for spandex. High heat:

• Weakens the elastic fibers

• Sets in odor

• Causes shrinkage or stiffening

Instead:

• Air dry flat or on a drying rack

• If hanging, use padded hangers to avoid shoulder marks

• Keep out of direct sunlight to prevent color fading

If you must use a dryer, choose the lowest heat setting and remove garments while slightly damp.

Extra Tips to Extend the Life of Nylon and Spandex

• Use mesh laundry bags to reduce friction during washing

• Wash with similar fabrics only—never mix with towels or denim

• Avoid wringing or twisting—it stresses the fibers

• Steam, don’t iron—direct heat can damage the fabric

With proper care, your nylon and spandex pieces can stay looking fresh and fitting right for years.

Final Thoughts

If you want your activewear to keep its stretch, structure, and sweat-fighting power, it starts with how you wash nylon and spandex. Gentle cycles, cold water, detergent made for synthetics, and zero heat—that’s the winning formula.

For a full breakdown of fabric care do’s and don’ts, be sure to check out our guide:
👉 How to Wash Your Favorite Activewear Without Ruining the Fabric

Treat your gear right, and it’ll return the favor every time you move.