Lululemon leggings can be machine washed on a delicate setting with cold water. Make sure to skip the fabric softener, as it can coat the fibers and reduce their moisture-wicking ability, making it harder for sweat to move away from your skin.
You can tumble dry them on low, but air drying is best to help keep the fabric in good shape.
Table of Contents
ToggleTaking Care of Lululemon Products
As expected from a well-established brand, their products can be quite costly. Luckily, their price tags are generally backed up by their quality.
In fact, that’s one of their selling points. For instance, the consensus seems to be that their leggings and tops can be worn for several years.

While they don’t offer a lifetime guarantee, as many people claim, they do have a Quality Promise. In other words, they’ll be happy to replace a product if there is an inherent defect in its fabric or construction.
Given how most of their items are on the pricey side, it only makes sense that you’d want to take proper care of them. To put it simply, you want to wash their products with care. Nothing’s worse than ruining a new shirt in the laundry!
Not too sure about how to wash Lululemon apparel? Don’t worry—we will be going over some of the best methods below.
Before we do that, however, let’s take a look at their special proprietary fabrics. After all, that’s what they make their clothes from! It also dictates how their items should be washed.
Lululemon’s Proprietary Synthetic Fabrics
Luon
Luon is their signature four-way stretch fabric. Cottony soft, it’s perfect for wearing to the yoga studio. Did we also mention that it’s moisture-wicking?
There are multiple versions of Luon including Full-On Luon, Light Luon, and Seriously Light Luon, all of which are suited for different purposes.
Luxtreme

Luxtreme is a four-way stretch fabric that is engineered to fit like a second skin. Sweat-wicking yet cool to the touch, it offers enough support for most physical workouts.
There are three versions—Standard Luxtreme, Light Luxtreme, and Full-on Luxtreme.
Nulu
Nulu is so comfortable that you’ll feel like you’re not wearing anything. Not only does it have four-way stretch, but it’s sweat-wicking, lightweight and buttery soft.
Non-restrictive, you’ll have no problem at all doing your yoga poses. Developed as part of their Naked Sensation line, it delivers all of the technical performances qualities that you need.
Nulux
Nulux is very similar to Nulu—both are lightweight and buttery soft. However, the former is much more suited for high-intensity training.
Extremely smooth, the fabric will sit against your skin with light compression. The fact that it is sweat-wicking will also ensure that you stay dry during your workout.
Everlux

Everlux is designed for maximum breathability in high-humidly, high-heat environments. Not only is it super efficient at wicking away sweat, but it dries fast—more so than the rest of their fabrics.
When sweat starts to flow, it will keep you dry by dispersing moisture from the skin in all directions.
Buttery soft, it features a unique double-knit structure that allows it to remain cool-to-the-touch on the inside.
Swift
Swift is designed to be strong and light. Incredibly versatile, it offers both two-way stretch and freedom of movement.
On top of being moisture-wicking and water-repellent, it is also strong—it will stand up to whatever you throw at it. There are three versions to choose from—Swift, Swift Ultra, and Swift Ultra Light.
Silverescent
Silverescent is phenomenal at fighting odors. Powered by X-Static, it features stink-stopping technology, which effectively prevents odor-causing residue from developing on the fabric.
How to Wash Lululemon Align Leggings
Align leggings are one of the brand’s most popular styles. They can be machine washed on a gentle cycle or hand washed if you want to be a little gentler with the fabric.
Machine Washing Lululemon Align Leggings
You can wash Lululemon leggings with other laundry, just stick to similar colors.
Step 1: Place Them in a Laundry Bag

Turn the leggings inside out and place them in a mesh laundry bag before putting them in the washer.
Step 2: Add ACTIVE Detergent

Add one scoop of ACTIVE detergent directly to the drum and run a gentle cycle with cold water. Skip the fabric softener.
Step 3: Allow Them to Air Dry

Allow the leggings to air dry. While you can use the tumble dry setting (tumble low only), it’s generally not recommended as the heat will make them wear out faster; they’ll also lose their softness after a few washes.
Supply:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Laundry bag
Avoid washing Lululemon leggings and tights with abrasive garments such as those with zippers or velcro as it can damage the material.
ACTIVE Detergent
The safe and effective detergent for Lululemon leggings and other clothing.

15% Off Your Order on Amazon
×Click below to reveal the 15% off coupon for your entire ACTIVE purchase on Amazon.com
Washing Lululemon Align Leggings by Hand
Washing them by hand is the best option. The delicate setting on your washer is great, but it will still toss the items around, which over time, can damage the fabric.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Water
Step 1:
Fill a basin or the sink with cool or warm water. Avoid hot water as it can damage the synthetic fabrics.

Step 2:
Add one scoop of ACTIVE Detergent and mix to create a soapy solution. Place the Align leggings in the sink and let them sit for at least 15 minutes.

Step 3:
After soaking, rub the fabric gently between your fingers to loosen any remaining oils and dirt.

Step 4:
Rinse the leggings under running water until all the detergent has been washed out.
Then, lay them flat to dry.

How to Wash Lululemon Wunder Train Leggings
Lululemon Wunder Train leggings are made with a lightweight fabric and can be tossed in the washing machine on a gentle cycle or hand washed.
Machine Washing Lululemon Wunder Train Leggings
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Laundry bag

Step 1:
Turn the Wunder Train leggings inside out and place them in a laundry bag.

Step 2:
Place the laundry bag in the machine and add one scoop of ACTIVE Detergent. Skip the fabric softener.

Step 3:
Run a gentle wash cycle with cold water.

Step 4:
Take the leggings out of the machine after washing, and let them air dry in a well-ventilated area.
Make sure the pockets are empty before washing.
Hand Washing Lululemon Wunder Train Leggings
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Water
Step 1:
Fill a sink or basin with cool or warm water. Avoid hot water, as it can damage the synthetic fabric.

Step 2:
Add one scoop of ACTIVE Detergent to the water and mix well. Place the Wunder Train leggings in the sink and let them soak for at least 15 minutes.

Step 3:
After soaking, gently rub the fabric between your fingers to help loosen any remaining dirt and oils.

Step 4:
Rinse the leggings under running water until the detergent is completely washed out, then lay them flat to air dry.

Cleaning Lululemon Swimwear
Lululemon sells swimwear for both men and women (e.g. bikinis, swim trunks, one piece swimsuits). As with the rest of their activewear, these items are made from technical fibers.
Hand Wash Your Lululemon Swimwear
First things first, rinse the swimsuit with water as soon as possible after taking it off. That will help remove some of the chlorine, sunscreen, and salts from the fabric, all of which can damage the fabric.
The next step is to wash it with a mild detergent.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Water

Step 1:
Fill a sink with cold water and mix in a bit of ACTIVE detergent to create a sudsy solution.

Step 2:
Turn the swimsuit inside out and place it in the sink, making sure it’s completely immersed in the soapy mixture.
Let it sit for 10 minutes.

Step 3:
Rinse the swimsuit with cold water to get rid of the detergent residue.
Avoid wringing or twisting the swimsuit; gently squeeze out the water instead.

Step 4:
Lay it flat to dry on a clean surface, out of direct sunlight. Alternatively, you can use a drying rack.
Never put your Lululemon swimsuit in the dryer—the elastic will quickly deteriorate from the heat.
Machine Washing Lululemon Swimwear – Yes or No?
While it’s not advisable, Lululemon swimwear can be put in the washing machine—as long as cold water is used. Add a scoop of ACTIVE Detergent and wash on a delicate cycle.
Take the items out once the cycle is finished and hang them dry. Avoid putting the swimsuits in the dryer.
How to Wash Lululemon Underwear
The brand offers a variety of women’s underwear including bikinis, thongs, and boy shorts. They also sell various styles of boxers for men.
How to Wash Lululemon Underwear Properly in the Washer
Their underwear should be washed as delicates in the washing machine.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Laundry bag
Step 1:
Place the underwear in a mesh laundry bag to prevent the elastic from getting stretched, and put it in the washer.

Step 2:
Add one scoop of ACTIVE Detergent and run a delicate wash cycle with cold water. Do not use fabric softener or bleach.

Step 4:
Once the cycle is finished, hang the undergarments on a clothesline and allow them to air dry.

Washing Lulu Underwear by Hand
As always, hand washing will be gentler than using the machine.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Water

Step 1:
Begin by filling the sink with cold water. Add half a scoop of ACTIVE Detergent and mix the liquid thoroughly with your hand.

Step 2:
Carefully place the underwear in the solution, making sure not to overload the sink.
Let it sit for at least 15 minutes, then wash the garment by gently rubbing the fabric between your fingers. Avoid twisting the items as that can cause damage to the fibers.

Step 3:
Rinse the garment with clean water, then allow it to air dry on a clothesline or drying rack.
The Best Laundry Detergent for Lululemon Clothes
ACTIVE Detergent is an ideal choice for Lululemon clothing. Why? It is formulated specifically for activewear—such as the ones sold by the company.
Unlike conventional laundry detergents, it comes with three types of enzymes that are capable of going deep into the crevices of the technical fibers to dissolve and remove oils and dirt.

Not only that, but it contains natural chelating agents that bring your clothes back to their original state. In other words, you’ll be able to extend the life of your Lulu items.
Another great thing about ACTIVE Detergent is that it is all natural; it does not contain any harsh chemicals that will cause skin reactions or pollute our waterways.
It is also fragrance-free and hypoallergenic, the latter of which makes it an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin.
Washing Lululemon Leggings – FAQs
Can I put my Lululemon leggings in the washing machine?
Yes, their leggings are machine washable. Before you load them into the washer, make sure to turn them inside out and place them in mesh laundry bag. That will prevent the outer fabric from wearing out during the wash cycle so that they will stay new for longer.
Does Lululemon shrink in the wash?
Some Lululemon leggings are made of cotton, which is prone to shrinking. To prevent that, we recommend washing their items in cold water with a delicate cycle. Also, always air dry; do not put their tights and leggings in the dryer.
Should you put Lululemon in the dryer?
No, you should never put Lululemon leggings (and other garments) in the dryer as the high heat will cause the material to deteriorate prematurely.
Do you have to hand wash Lululemon swim suits?
Yes, Lululemon swimsuits (and swimwear in general) should always be washed by hand. We recommend rinsing the swimsuit with water, then soaking it in an ACTIVE Detergent solution. From there, simply massage the fabric and rinse with cold water.
Putting them in the washing machine will cause the nylon fabric to stretch out, which will ruin its shape and fit.
Should you use fabric softener with Lululemon?
No, avoid using fabric softener when washing Lululemon leggings and other garments. The softener will leave a layer of waxy residue on your clothes, which will attract dirt and prevent them from pulling moisture from the skin.
Can you hand wash Lululemon?
Hand washing Lululemon leggings and other activewear is a gentler way to clean them and can help prevent stretching, pilling, and general wear.
What detergent should you use on Lululemon?
ACTIVE Detergent is the best option for Lululemon activewear as it’s specially formulated for synthetic fibers. It will help remove sweat, body oils, and odors without leaving behind residue that can affect the fabric’s performance.
How long do Lululemon leggings take to dry?
Lululemon leggings can take anywhere from 4 to 8 hours to air dry, depending on the fabric and airflow.
Can you wash Lululemon leggings with other clothes?
Yes, you can wash Lululemon leggings with other laundry as long as you stick to similar colors. It’s best to avoid hoodies and clothes with zippers or hardware, which can snag or damage the fabric.
SAVE
15% off
Your Next ACTIVE
Purchase on Amazon
15% Off Your Order on Amazon
×Click below to reveal the 15% off coupon for your entire ACTIVE purchase on Amazon.com
Limited Time Offer

Comment (1)
How do I wash a rain coat?