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How to Wash Spanx Shapewear & Clothing
June 29, 2023
-
By
Sophia Grant
Spanx is an apparel company that specializes in underwear. They also sell a variety of clothing including leggings, shaping briefs, activewear, bras, and swimsuits.
While they’re mostly known for their women’s products, they have also been producing men’s apparel since 2010.
More About the Company
The brand was founded by Sara Blakely, a former cast member at the Walt Disney World Resort, in 2000.
She invested her entire life savings to create an initial prototype, which she eventually began to sell out of her apartment.
It proved to be a big success. Within just a few months, she managed to land deals with Saks, Bergdorg Goodman, and Bloomingdales.
A decade later, the first brick-and-mortar store opened in Tysons Corner in Virginia.
Since then, more than 10 different locations have opened across the country.
Not only that but their products are also available at numerous retailers including Walmart, Nordstrom, Macy’s, JCPenney, and Target.
Types of Fabric Used by Spanx
Their underwear is typically made of nylon, which is known for its moisture-wicking abilities. Some of their products also contain spandex and elastane, both of which add stretch to the garment.
Take Spanx bodysuits, for example, they are typically made out of nylon and elastane, though the exact composition differs from suit to suit.
Some designs also contain spandex, which provides a comfortable stretch.
Their tanks and camis, on the other hand, are made of cotton and polyester, which makes them more breathable.
As for their leggings, they are mostly made out of nylon, with bits of spandex, elastane, and polyester added in between. They also offer faux leather leggings that are made of faux leather material.
Benefits of Nylon
- Durable and tough despite being relatively thin
- Not prone to wrinkling and shrinking
- Resistant against chemicals and oils
- Dries very quickly
- Incredibly lightweight
Benefits of Spandex
- Very lightweight
- Comfortable to wear even for long periods of time
- Durable and strong
- Increases the movability of the wearer
- Increases stability of clothing
How to Wash Spanx Shapewear
There are a couple of ways to wash Spanx shapewear – you can either run them through the washer or wash them by hand. Here’s how.
Machine Washing Your Spanx Shapewear
Spanx shapewear can be put in the washing machine as long as you follow the proper steps.
Step 1: Place Them In a Laundry Bag
Start by placing the garments in a mesh laundry bag. That will prevent them from rubbing against your other clothing, which can cause the fabric to wear out prematurely.
Step 2: Add ACTIVE Detergent
Add one scoop of ACTIVE detergent to the wash basin. Skip the fabric softener – the chemicals will prevent the nylon and spandex from pulling perspiration away from the skin.
Step 3: Run a Wash Cycle
Start a gentle cycle with cold water. Do not use hot water – the heat can shrink the nylon over time.
Step 4: Air Dry the Garments
Take the shapewear out of the washer once the cycle is finished and let them air dry on a drying rack – it shouldn’t take more than a few hours to dry completely.
Supply:
- ACTIVE Detergent
Don’t put Spanx shapewear in the dryer; the heat will cause the nylon to warp.
ACTIVE Detergent
Keep your Spanx clean and free from sweat and body oils.
Hand Washing Your Spanx Shapewear
Washing your Spanx shapewear by hand is much gentler on the fabric. It’s not that difficult either, you just need a few things.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Water
- Drying rack
Step 1:
Fill a sink with warm water and add a small amount of ACTIVE detergent, agitating the liquid to dissolve the powder.
Step 2:
Place your shapewear in the soapy mixture and let them soak for 15 to 30 minutes.
Rub the fabric gently with your fingers afterwards to remove any remaining dirt or oils.
Step 3:
Gently press out the excess water and let the garment air dry on a drying rack, away from direct sunlight.
Never wring or twist your shapewear like a towel; that will damage the fabric, causing it to wear down prematurely.
How to Clean Different Types of Spanx Leggings
Their leggings are similar to their shapewear in that they’re also made from technical fabrics, meaning they can also be put in the washer.
Or if you want, you can wash them by hand. Either way works, though the latter will be a bit gentler on the fabric.
Machine Washing Spanx Leggings
Their leggings are similar to their shapewear in that they’re also machine washable.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Laundry bag
- Drying rack
Step 1:
Turn the leggings inside out and place them in a mesh laundry bag.
Make sure the bag is zipped up all the way and throw it in the washer.
Step 2:
Add one scoop of ACTIVE Detergent, then machine wash on a gentle cycle with cold water.
Step 3:
Once the wash cycle is finished, take the leggings out and let them dry naturally on a drying rack.
Remember to sort the your leggings based on color (i.e. darks with darks, lights with lights) before washing.
Hand Washing Spanx Leggings
Spanx leggings can also be washed by hand in the sink. You can even wash them with other similar items.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Water
- Drying rack
Step 1:
Fill a sink with water and add a small amount of ACTIVE Detergent to create a soapy mixture.
Step 2:
Turn the leggings inside out and place them in the sink, making sure they’re completely covered in the solution.
Let them soak in the soapy water for at least 15 minutes.
Step 3:
Gently rub the fabric with your hands to remove any remaining oils and debris, then rinse the item under clean water.
Step 4:
Carefully press out the excess water from the fabric and let it air dry on a drying rack. Do not tumble dry.
Washing Instructions for Other Spanx Activewear – Sports Bras and Tops
Machine Washing Spanx Sports Bras and Tops
Their sports bras, tops, and other activewear can be washed similarly to their leggings. In fact, you can even wash them in the same load, granted you put them in individual laundry bags.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Laundry bags
- Drying rack
Step 1:
Place your Spandex activewear in individual laundry bags and put them in the washer.
Step 2:
Add one scoop of ACTIVE detergent, then run a gentle or delicate cycle with cold water.
Step 3:
Take out the items once the wash cycle is complete and let them dry naturally on a drying rack
Avoid putting them in the dryer – you don’t want to expose your Spanx activewear to unnecessary heat.
Hand Washing Spanx Sports Bras and Tops
Spanx sports bras and tops can be washed by hand in the sink – you just need some water and detergent.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Water
- Drying rack
Step 1:
Fill a sink two-thirds full with warm water and mix in a small amount of ACTIVE Detergent.
Gently agitate the water with your hands to dissolve the powder.
Step 2:
Turn the sports bras inside out (and remove any padding, if necessary) and place them in the soapy solution – the fabric should be completely immersed.
Step 3:
Soak the bras for 20-30 minutes, then rinse them with clean water.
Step 4:
Gently press the excess water out of the items, then drape them across a drying rack so they can air dry.
You can wash sports bras and tops together as long as they’re of similar colors. Avoid mixing darks with lights as that can cause dye transfer.
Best Laundry Detergent For Spanx Products
ACTIVE Detergent is the best option for Spanx products and for good reason – it’s specially formulated for technical fibers, such as the ones used by the brand.
It features a plant-based formula that is capable of eliminating dirt, oils, and residues, meaning your activewear will come out clean and fresh each time. Not only that but it’s also hypoallegernic, which makes it ideal for those with sensitive skin.
How to Wash Spanx Products – FAQs
Can you put Spanx underwear in the washing machine?
Yes, their undergarments can be machine-washed. Just remember to put them in a mesh laundry bag, otherwise, they can wear out prematurely.
Should you put fabric softener when you’re washing Spanx leggings?
No, avoid using softener when you’re washing their leggings – or activewear in general. They will coat the fabric with a waxy residue, which will prevent sweat from escaping to the surface.
If necessary, you can soften your leggings with white vinegar instead. Simply add one cup during the final rinse cycle. It’ll soften the fabric and help get rid of any odors.
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Sophia Grant
Sophia Grant brings her extensive knowledge of laundry and clothing care to the masses with her intensive cleaning guides. Her thorough understanding of fabrics, detergents, and washing techniques helps readers master the art of maintaining their wardrobe. Sophia's advice ensures that anyone can achieve professional-level results at home, keeping their garments looking pristine and lasting longer.
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Comments (2)
Do I take the padding out of my best of both worlds reversible bra when I was it?
I am a firm (haha) believer in your product. I am thankful I found the men’s t-shirts! After losing over 100lbs Spanx help me shape and couture my excess skin. The only question I have why after 2-3 washed they start having a yellowish color. How do I prevent and also regain the white color?