Washing your workout clothes isn’t the same as cleaning your everyday clothing. The former has unique properties that make traditional detergent a less-than-ideal choice.
In fact, using regular laundry soap can do more harm than good to your favorite yoga pants or running shirt. For one thing, these detergents often leave behind residue, which traps sweat and oils and causes those persistent unpleasant smells.
Sport laundry detergent, on the other hand, is specifically formulated to deal with these types of clothes.
The Unique Nature of Activewear Clothing
Activewear is made of performance fabrics, which play a pivotal role in activities such as running or yoga.
Take polyester and spandex, for example, they’re known for their durability. The latter also provides remarkable elasticity that allows it to retain its shape even after rigorous stretching, making them ideal for workout clothes.
Cleaning these synthetic fibers, however, can be challenging compared to natural ones such as cotton.
The Challenge with Synthetic Fibers
Unlike cotton, synthetic fibers don’t release dirt easily. This is largely due to their structure, which traps oil-based substances, including skin oils (sebum) or sweat, and that can lead to body odor.
It also affects the efficacy of traditional laundry detergents in that they’re unable to penetrate deeply into the tightly woven structures.
The Limitations of Regular Detergents
While traditional liquid laundry detergent works well for regular fabrics like cotton, they face challenges when it comes to activewear.
How Regular Detergents Leave Residue Behind
Synthetic fibers in athletic wear repel water while attracting oil-based substances like sweat.
As a result, conventional detergents are not fully rinsed out during the wash cycle. This leaves behind a layer of soap molecules, which traps dirt, skin cells, and sweat over time. The is especially true if you add fabric softener.
This buildup will not only lead to persistent smells but can also cause skin irritation. What’s worse, is that the problem exacerbates each time you do laundry using these regular soaps.
Degrading Fabric Integrity Over Time
Regular laundry detergent can also cause the fabrics to degrade over time.
By exposing them to harsh cleaning agents that are present in standard detergent, the fibers will be weakened prematurely.
Faded colors, loss of elasticity, and reduced moisture-wicking capabilities are just a few examples of how traditional detergents can degrade sports clothes.
So while traditional detergents might seem good enough at first glance, they simply aren’t up to the task of keeping our activewear in the best condition long term.
The Power of ACTIVE Laundry Detergent
Activewear laundry detergent such as the one by ACTIVE is a revolutionary product for cleaning performance fabrics.
Unlike its regular counterparts, it’s engineered to delve deep into synthetic fibers to effectively remove sweat and odor-causing agents that often escape regular detergents.
For one thing, it features enzymes that are capable of breaking down organic matter such as body oils and perspiration. This means it’ll have no problem eradicating stubborn stains from your smelly workout clothes.
The Importance of Enzymes
One thing that sets ACTIVE Laundry Detergent apart from the rest is the fact that it contains plant-based enzymes.
These natural substances accelerate chemical reactions – specifically those required to break down complex molecules found in sweat and oil. That is, they’re able to break them down into smaller compounds that can easily be washed away with water.
Different kinds of dirt are targeted by different enzymes: protease for protein-related stains like blood or sweat, lipase for fat- or oil-related grime, and amylase for starch-connected muck.
ACTIVE laundry Detergent uses a combination of these specialized agents, which means it provides unmatched cleaning capability compared to its regular counterparts, when it comes to washing synthetic materials.
Not only is ACTIVE a powerful cleaner, but it’s also free of harsh chemicals that could irritate the skin and damage fabric integrity over time.
Why Our Activewear Laundry Detergent Outperforms Regular Detergent
It’s Versatile
Our sports detergent’s unique formula allows it to work seamlessly with all washers, including high-efficiency models.
The granules dissolve completely during each wash cycle, ensuring optimal cleaning power while reducing residue.
No Residue Left Behind
ACTIVE Laundry Detergent will not leave behind any harmful residue on your clothes. This makes it a great choice for those with sensitive skin.
What Types of Workout Clothes Can You Clean With ACTIVE Detergent?
ACTIVE Laundry Detergent is specifically designed to clean manmade fibers, which are commonly used in athletic wear.
Here are some items that our activewear laundry detergent excels at cleaning.
Leggings and Yoga Pants
The stretchy fabric in leggings and yoga pants often traps sweat, leaving them smelling less than fresh after a workout session.
The plant-based enzymes in ACTIVE detergent work efficiently at removing odors trapped within these technical fabrics.
Workout Shirts & Shorts
Your workout clothes take quite a beating during intense workouts, and can accumulate tough stains from sweat and dirt.
Unlike traditional detergents, which often leave behind residue on performance fabrics, ACTIVE Laundry Detergent removes smells without harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances.
Sports Bras & Compression Gear
Athletic apparel such as sports bras and compression gear need special care due to their snug fit against the skin, which means they absorb more sweat.
ACTIVE Detergent is the best choice for these types of garments as it’s capable of removing the embedded filth effectively while maintaining the integrity of the fabric fibers.
Socks, Underwear & Jock Straps
Fabric softeners found in regular detergents can ruin sportswear materials like those used for socks, underwear, or jock straps by reducing their ability to wick away moisture; this can lead to bad odors over time.
With ACTIVE Laundry Detergent, however, your clothes will retain their moisture-wicking properties.
Towels & Bed Sheets
You may not consider towels and bed sheets as part of your activewear, but think again!
They come into contact with body oils just like workout clothes do, which makes ACTIVE Detergent a good option as it will remove all oil residues that could lead to unpleasant smells over time.
Finding the Best Laundry Detergent for Activewear
When it comes to washing clothes, you want to make sure to choose the right detergent. Remember, it’s not just about getting clothes clean; it’s also about maintaining fabric integrity and extending the lifespan of your athletic apparel.
ACTIVE Laundry Detergent is known for eradicating sweat and oils that are embedded deep in synthetic fibers and can also be used as a stain remover on technical fabrics such as polyester or spandex.
Our activewear laundry detergent is also cost-effective at just over 30 cents per small HE (high-efficiency) load. This makes it a budget-friendly choice if you’re using high-efficiency washing machines frequently to wash your sports garments.
Its eco-friendly formula also uses biodegradable ingredients sans harmful chemicals or artificial fragrances.
If you are sensitive towards strong scents then ACTIVE is a great choice due to its neutral, scentless smell profile. It will leave your clothes smelling fresh after every wash cycle without covering up odors with strong fragrances.
Common Questions About Activewear Laundry Detergent
How is sports detergent different from traditional laundry detergents?
Sports detergent is specially formulated to penetrate manmade fabrics, which means it’s highly effective at removing sweat and odor-causing oils – things that regular detergents struggle with.
Not only that but it can also be used to remove sweat stains.
Which type of detergents are more effective?
Powdered sports detergents such as the one by ACTIVE tend to be more effective as they have a longer shelf life and work well with high-efficiency washing machines.
Does active wear laundry detergent work?
ACTIVE Laundry Detergent uses plant-based enzymes to target organic filth like sweat and bad odors, leaving your gym clothes fresh.
Is there really a difference between laundry detergents?
Yes, regular detergents can leave residue on synthetic fabrics. Activewear detergents, on the other hand, don’t have this issue, which makes them better for workout gear.
Should I use warm or hot water with ACTIVE Detergent?
Activewear Laundry Detergent is formulated so that it will completely dissolve in all water temperatures.
Can I add fabric softener when I’m washing my active wear?
Fabric softener is not recommended. It will leave behind a waxy layer on the fabric, which will hinder its ability to wick away moisture.
ACTIVE’s Home Cleaning Solutions
If you’re dealing with odors and grime in other places in your home like your appliances, ACTIVE has you covered.
We have concentrated cleaning products for specific appliances like your washing machine, dishwasher, garbage disposal, and more. See what we have to offer!
Silas –
I use this product for my functionout clothes since my organic deodorants don’t handle sweat well. The package recommends 1 scoop, but I find that 4-5 scoops function better with my unscented detergent for a large load. For hand washing a couple of items, less is sufficient. This product, paired with my regular detergent, does a great job! However, the packaging could be improved; it sometimes spills powder when I think it’s closed.
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Emma T. –
J’étais sceptique après avoir lu les avis. Suivant le conseil de quelqu’un d’autre, j’ai fait tremper les vêtements dans une baignoire chaude avec beaucoup de détergent pendant une heure. Après les avoir lavés, l’odeur avait disparu !
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Dalton Lee –
very effective at removing odors from synthetic fibers, but be careful: it causes color bleeding. always separate darks and lights! i noticed my lighter clothes turning gray when washed with black athletic wear. a small test in a wash basin confirmed that colors ran immediately, regardless of the clothes’ age. exercise caution!
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Tom –
I practice yoga six days a week, which creates quite a bit of odor and results in a mountain of activewear to wash. This detergent eliminated both new and old smells from my garments and removed deodorant residue in just one wash. Initially doubtful about a fragrance-free option, I was pleasantly surprised by its effectiveness. I’ll continue using this brand for my workout clothes as they come out fresh and odor-free. I truly appreciate this product!
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Mara –
fels clean and odorless. left some powder residue, so i used liquid detergent to help. still using it.
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Samaya –
I work out every day, often fitting in a morning session with a run or cycle, leading me to change clothes twice daily and discard 7-10 shirts a year due to odors. Initially skeptical about Active Wear detergent, which I soaked my clothes in, I was disappointed as odors persisted. Previously, I had better results with brands like Hex and Wynn, but I committed to using Active Wear for a month. Over time, I noticed the smell faded, and six weeks in, my wife commented that I didn’t smell anymore. It took several washes to eliminate the odor completely, and I learned that a small amount of detergent works best. This detergent also effectively cleans my cycling gear and preserves my expensive winter apparel without damage. I use it on my merino wool base layers and socks with great results. For my Wahoo Ticker X, I mix the detergent with water and shake it to keep it fresh. I also cleaned my smelly Vans insoles successfully. Using a front-loading machine, I add the detergent directly to the tub, and at $19.99, it’s more economical than replacing my $30-40 Nike shirts. I’ve noticed my new shirts remain odor-free. The key is consistent use and washing older items, which usually takes five to six washes to restore them. I recommend it, but the bag is a drawback; I once spilled it and had a big cleanup. Now I store it in an Oxo Pop container for easy access.
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Kenji –
This detergent is incredible. I had persistent odors in my kids’ clothes from food and pets that wouldn’t budge. After switching to this brand on a friend’s recommendation, those smells vanished. Our laundry smells fresh and clean without harsh synthetic fragrances. Stains that had lingered for years disappeared after just a few washes. Plus, I love that it comes in a compact, resealable bag. A small scoop works wonders no more bulky jugs to deal with!
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Sylas B –
After numerous failed attempts to wash my dancer’s moisture-wicking shirts due to lingering odors, I was frustrated. Various sports detergents only masked the smell with overpowering fragrances. While searching online, I discovered Active, which has been a game changer! This laundry powder left the shirts smelling FRESH and completely eliminated any odor. I highly recommend it to all parents of sweaty athletes. Also, a shoutout to the Olympians competing globally!
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Conley –
I had some second handed clothes over whelmed by a strong perfume scent, as if a whole bottle had spilled on them i tried everything vinegar, baking soda, soaking, sun exposure, OxiClean, borax but nothing worked. Just when I was ready to give up, I found a produc aimed at eliminating odors from synthetic fabrics and decided to try it. After a few washes with two scoops of this detergent, the smell vanished completely, leaving just the scent of fresh fabric. Additionally, my elderly Yorkie has been struggling with incontinence, and the urine odor was stubborn. Active Wear worked wonders, cleaning everything in just one wash. I’ve used it many times since, and there’s still plenty left in the bag, making it a great bargin. It doesn’t leave residue or irritate my sensitive skin, plus it’s fragrance-free. I’m so grateful I found this product! My sensitive nose is thrilled. Huge thanks to Active for this fantattic detergent!
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Scott –
This detergent is the only one that has completely eliminated the odor from my husband’s running and rugby clothes. It also functions wonders on our young sons’ messy outfits. I always wash in hot water to ensure bacteria is removed, and this is the only detergent that truly eliminates bad odors. I will definitely buy it again and highly recommend it.
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