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!
Joe –
I’ve tried every method to eliminate the stubborn body oil smell from my luxurious high thread count sheetsbleach, hydrogen peroxide, oxy-clean products, Tilex, various ‘scent eliminators’ for hunting, and even boiling them. This was my last attempt before giving up. I borrowed a hot water top-loading washing machine from my mom, placed my sheets in (one king set plus extra pillowcases), added two Costco laundry pods, filled it with hot water, and used eight scoops of a special powder. I let the sheets soak for a couple of hours before running the wash cycle. They smelled fantastic afterward, looked clean, and felt utterly fresh. I’m so excited to share this success! Next, I’ll try it on my husband’s yellowing t-shirts. I hope it works for you too!
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Piper –
This product functions. I was skeptical at first due to how little u need per load, but it really does the job. No more lingering smells, whether it’s heavy cotton or polyester. Many detergents mask odors initially, but they return when u sweat. My jiu jitsu gi top, known for holding smells, is now odor-free thanks to ACTIVE. I don’t care about the lack of fragrance; I just wanted something effective against stubborn odors, and I’ve found it. I rarely write reviews, but I had to share this. Get one for urself and another for ur training partner.
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Allison –
This product revived my old workout clothes, headbands, socks, and other items with persistent odors. I tried various detergents on some tees, but this was the only one that eliminated the stubborn smell that would resurface quickly. For best results, soak the clothes in detergent firstI left them in hot water with one scoop for 30 minutes, then washed as usual, and the odor was completely gone.
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Tinsley –
I discovered this detergent while looking for a product that effectively cleans clothes with fewer harsh ingredients, and it did not disappoint! It lasted me about 4 months, as I frequently wash my workout gear. It removes odors, cleans thoroughly, and keeps my clothes in great condition. I love supporting small U.S. businesses, and this brand truly values product quality. I’ve shared it with everyone! The handwritten note and the cleverly packaged scoop are delightful touches. I also tried their washer and dishwasher cleaning pods, which work great! Highly recommend those too!
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Fisher –
I really hoped this product would eliminate the odor from my activewear’s armpits. It seemed effective right out of the laundry, but soon my body heat brought the smell back. I even scrubbed and soaked it with a stronger detergent solution, then washed it twice. I reached out to the company for advice but got no response. I’m done and returning the product.
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Allen –
The cat lost it on the way to the vet, leaving a nice puddle in its soft-shell carrier, which I knew would end badly. Cat urine is like a permanent stain, a mark that lasts unpleasantly. I considered using a lot of enzymatic cleaner, but that seemed excessive. Instead, I decided to soak it in water with detergent first, then use the enzyme spray. I remembered the key rule: only treat pee stains with enzyme cleaners. Regular detergent could seal in the smell. Then I found an enzyme laundry detergent for activewear. At 27 bucks, it’s pricey, but it functions wonders. It has even saved expensive rugs from a puppy’s mess. This stuff is incredible! I’m gifting it to everyone for Christmas with no explanationjust for laughs. Sorry for rambling; I’ve had too much coffee and want to avoid being productive.
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Jude –
This water has soaked five odorous items in two scoops of warm water per the label instructions. I’ve yet to finish my first laundry load with this detergent, but I’m impressed by the amount of residue it’s already removed.
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Jake –
Ever noticed it’s not your armpits causing the odor but your clothes when you sweat? After doing some research, I found that my clothes might be the culprit. I tried vinegar, ammonia, and various detergents, but the real game-changer was soaking my clothes for over an hour. The water was surprisingly dingy for freshly washed items. There wasn’t a strong scent to mask anything, but I’m impressed! Plus, it’s affordable to finally get rid of that stinky problem. 🙂
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Mila Mom –
I’m impressed with this product. My husbad drives a truck, and I needed something to eliminate the strong “truck driver” odor from his clothes. Coincidentaly, I received it just as he came home with a load of laundry permeated by diesel fuel. I filled our bathtub with hot water, added four scoops of this product, and soaked his clothes for an hour. After rinsing, I repeated with another four scoops. After two hours of soaking, I wrung them out and washed them with my regular Tide detergent and dryer sheets. The results were astonishing, everything came out fresh and clean. I also used it on our sheets and towels, which emerged crisp and odor free with no residue. If your washing machine has a presoak feature, use it to skip the bathtub step. My family has sensitive skin, and we have had no issues. This product is great for especially smelly items like work out clothes or truck gear. For a large load in an HE washer, 3 scoops during the presoak setting is ideal, for smaller loads, two scoops will suffice. It works well in both hot and cold water. I see it being beneficial for moms who cloth diaper, as it effectively tackles stains and odors while being gentle. It could also clean unique items like rugs and car seat covers. I hope this review helps
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Lyle –
i’ve been usinng this brand’s washing machine and dishwasher cleaner tabs for a while and i appreciate how they keep my machines smelling fresh. when i discovered their laundry detergent, i decided to try it. i previously used tide hygienic clean free and clear with downy scent beads for regular loads and lysol laundry sanitizer for towels, sheets, and activewear. my white towels never stayed bright, and my activewear had a musty odor. i switched to this new detergent, dropping the scent beads and tide, and my laundry now smells neutral! i’ve also separated my synthetics from mostly cottons, washing the synthetics with lysol in the rinse cycle. since then, my activewear is odor-free, and my towels smell fresh and look brighter. i’ve added this detergent to my subscription deliveries.
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