EFFECTIVE WAYS TO Remove odour and smells from gym clothes

At the end of a vigorous workout session, the last thing you want is to be greeted by unpleasant odours emanating from your gym clothes. Sweating is a natural process during exercise, but it can leave behind a lingering smell that is hard to eliminate. In this comprehensive guide, we will share effective methods to remove odour from gym clothes, ensuring that your workout gear stays fresh and odour-free.

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Dave Levey wears the LiteShell Delta T-shirt and FlexShell ONE Short

1. Sorting and Pre-Treating

To kickstart the odour-removal process, it is essential to sort your gym clothes based on colour, fabric type, and level of odour. This step allows for a more targeted approach when pre-treating and washing the garments. For heavily soiled or particularly smelly clothes, consider pre-soaking them before washing.

2. Vinegar Soak

Vinegar, a versatile household ingredient, can work wonders in removing odour from gym clothes. Fill a basin or sink with water and add half a cup of white vinegar. Allow the clothes to soak in the solution for at least 30 minutes, ensuring that each garment is fully submerged. The acidic properties of vinegar help break down the odour-causing bacteria. After soaking, rinse the clothes thoroughly and proceed with regular washing.

3. Baking Soda Boost

Baking soda is another powerhouse when it comes to tackling stubborn odours. Add half a cup of baking soda to your regular laundry detergent and let the machine work its magic. Baking soda acts as a natural deodorizer, neutralizing unpleasant smells. It also helps in softening the fabric, leaving your gym clothes fresh and comfortable.

Always sort your clothes based on color

4. Oxygen-Based Bleach

For those particularly tough odours that seem to cling to your gym clothes, consider using oxygen-based bleach. Unlike chlorine bleach, which can damage the fabric, oxygen-based bleach is gentler while still being effective. Follow the instructions on the product label and add the appropriate amount to your laundry load. The oxygen-based bleach will help lift deep-seated odours, leaving your clothes smelling clean and revitalized.

5. Sun-Drying

The power of the sun should not be underestimated when it comes to eliminating odours. After washing your gym clothes, hang them outside in direct sunlight to dry. The ultraviolet rays help kill bacteria and naturally freshen the fabric. Additionally, the fresh outdoor air can contribute to reducing any lingering smells. Remember to check the garment care labels to ensure that sun-drying is suitable for the specific fabrics used.

DVSN Special T-Shirts - White and Black
DVSN Versa T-shirts hang to dry (it is recommended to wash and dry inside out)

6. Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal is an excellent odour absorber that can be used to eliminate unpleasant smells from gym clothes. Place a small fabric bag filled with activated charcoal in your gym bag or among your clothes. The porous nature of activated charcoal allows it to trap and absorb odour molecules, keeping your gym clothes smelling fresh. Remember to replace the activated charcoal regularly for optimal results.

7. Proper Storage

Properly storing your gym clothes can make a significant difference in preventing and eliminating odours. Ensure that your workout gear is completely dry before storing it to avoid the growth of bacteria and mildew. Consider using breathable storage containers or hanging your clothes in a well-ventilated area. This allows air to circulate and helps prevent odours from setting in.

DVSN T-shirts neatly folded, ready for storage

Don’t let unpleasant odors deter you from enjoying your workout routine

By following these effective methods to remove odour from gym clothes, you can keep your activewear fresh and odour-free, ensuring a more pleasant exercise experience. Remember to sort and pre-treat your clothes, utilize vinegar soaks and baking soda, incorporate oxygen-based bleach when needed, take advantage of sun-drying, harness the power of activated charcoal, and practice proper storage techniques. By implementing these tips, you can bid farewell to stubborn odours and embrace the freshness of clean gym clothes.