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How to Wash Your Favorite Activewear Without Ruining the Fabric

Let’s face it: your activewear isn’t just gym gear—it’s an investment. Whether it’s buttery-soft Lululemon Align leggings or high-gloss Alo Airlift, today’s workout clothes are designed for performance and style. But knowing how to wash activewear properly is essential to keeping it in rotation—and out of the landfill.

If you’re tired of your leggings pilling, losing shape, or stretching out too soon, this guide will help you master the art of the activewear wash, with tips for preserving even the most delicate pieces.

1. Always Follow the Brand’s Care Instructions

This might sound obvious, but those tiny care labels are there for a reason. High-end activewear brands like Lululemon and Alo use technical fabrics with unique properties—so their wash instructions are often tailored to those exact blends.

Before tossing your gear into the machine, check for instructions like:

  • Cold water wash

  • Use mild detergents

  • No fabric softener

  • Hang dry or lay flat

Following the brand’s recommended steps can help you avoid common pitfalls like stretched-out seams, dulled finishes, or melted fibers.

2. Know Your Fabric: Not All Leggings Are Created Equal

It’s easy to assume all workout clothes can be treated the same, but different fabrics have drastically different needs. Let’s break down a few popular types to explain why.

Lululemon Align (Nulu) vs. Wonder Under

  • Nulu (used in Align): Incredibly soft and lightweight with a brushed finish. High elasticity and a delicate feel.

  • Wonder Under (often made from Luon or Luxtreme): Thicker, more durable, and supportive—better for intense workouts.

Because Nulu is more delicate, it’s more prone to pilling, stretching, and wear. That means you should wash these leggings on a gentle cycle, inside out, and never tumble dry. On the other hand, Wonder Under can handle a bit more agitation, but still benefits from cold water and hang drying.

Alo Airlift vs. Alosoft

  • Airlift: Sleek, glossy, and compressive. Often used for sculpting leggings and performance styles.

  • Alosoft: Cozy, plush, and ideal for lounging or low-impact activity.

Airlift’s high-shine, synthetic blend requires extra care to maintain its sheen. It’s thinner and more elastic than traditional cotton blends, which makes it more vulnerable to heat and friction. Skip the dryer completely and avoid abrasive materials like towels in the same load.

Want more fabric-specific advice? Check out our full guide on How to Wash Spandex and Nylon Clothes for a deep dive.

 

 

3. Choose the Right Detergent

Even with the correct wash settings, using the wrong detergent can sabotage your activewear. Many regular detergents leave behind residue, or worse—contain softeners that break down performance fibers.

Instead, opt for a detergent specifically designed for workout clothes. These formulas are built to remove sweat, oil, and bacteria without stripping elasticity or damaging finishes. We’ve rounded up our top picks in Best Detergents for Lululemon—don’t miss it.

 

 

4. Wash Less, Wear Smarter

Every wash cycle wears your clothes down—especially delicate activewear. Try spot cleaning between workouts, airing out your gear, or using an anti-odor spray to stretch time between washes. When you do wash, make sure to:

  • Use a mesh laundry bag

  • Wash in cold water

  • Avoid mixing with abrasive fabrics like denim or towels

Final Thoughts

Learning how to wash workout clothes the right way isn’t just about keeping them clean—it’s about preserving the fabric’s feel, fit, and performance. With a little fabric knowledge, a gentle wash cycle, and the right detergent, your favorite gear can go the distance.

Need help choosing the perfect detergent or figuring out how to care for specific fabrics? Dive deeper into our guides and treat your gear like the MVP it is.

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