Caring for Your Gym Sweaters & Hoodies: Washing, Drying & Storage Tips
When it comes to gym wear, most people focus on performance, style, and fit — but not enough attention is given to proper care. Your gym sweaters and hoodies are wardrobe essentials, absorbing sweat, enduring friction, and facing constant wear and tear. Whether you’re warming up, cooling down, or heading out after a session, these garments work hard — and they deserve some thoughtful upkeep.
Taking proper care of your gym sweaters and hoodies not only keeps them looking sharp and fitting well, but also helps retain key performance features like breathability, stretch, and moisture-wicking properties. Here’s your complete guide to washing, drying, and storing your gym hoodies and sweaters to extend their lifespan and keep them performing at their best.
Why Proper Care Matters
Most modern gym sweaters and hoodies are made from a mix of performance fibres — think polyester, elastane, cotton or sustainable blends. These materials are designed to work with your body, but they can also be sensitive to heat, friction, and harsh cleaning agents.
Improper care can result in:
- Shrinking or misshaping
- Fading and pilling
- Loss of moisture-wicking or anti-odour technology
- Lingering odours and bacterial build-up
Spending just a few extra minutes caring for your activewear properly can save you money and keep your favourite pieces looking, smelling, and performing like new.
Step 1: Before You Wash
1. Check the Care Label
Every hoodie or sweater has a care label for a reason. It will tell you the ideal wash temperature, whether it’s safe to tumble dry, and any special instructions.
2. Turn It Inside Out
This simple step protects the outer fabric and any prints or logos. It also exposes the sweatier interior to the wash more directly.
3. Avoid Overwashing
You don’t need to wash your hoodie after every wear unless it’s visibly soiled or smells. Overwashing wears down fabric and reduces the effectiveness of performance coatings.
4. Fasten Zips and Tie Drawcords
Zip up the front and tie any drawstrings to avoid tangling or damage in the machine.
Step 2: Washing Tips
1. Use Cold Water
Always opt for a cold wash. Hot water can shrink cotton fibres, fade colours, and degrade performance fabrics like elastane or polyester.
2. Choose a Gentle Detergent
Avoid harsh detergents, bleach, and especially fabric softeners — they coat the fabric and can ruin moisture-wicking properties. A sports-specific or mild detergent is ideal.
3. Wash With Similar Fabrics
Avoid mixing your gym hoodie with items like denim or towels. These heavy materials can cause unnecessary abrasion. Wash with other activewear for best results.
4. Select a Short, Gentle Cycle
A gentle wash cycle with a short duration is typically sufficient for freshening up your workout gear without overworking the fabric.
Step 3: Drying Your Gymwear
1. Avoid Heat
High temperatures can destroy performance fibres. Even cotton-rich hoodies risk shrinking or warping in the tumble dryer.
2. Air Dry When Possible
Lay your hoodie flat on a drying rack or hang it in a well-ventilated space out of direct sunlight. Sun can cause fading over time.
3. If Using a Tumble Dryer…
Only use a low-heat or air-dry setting, and remove the item promptly once dry. Never use high heat, which can damage fibres and shrink the garment.
Step 4: Storing Gym Hoodies & Sweaters
1. Ensure They Are Fully Dry
Even slightly damp garments can develop mould or unpleasant odours when stored. Wait until your hoodie is bone dry before putting it away.
2. Folding vs Hanging
Heavier hoodies are best folded to avoid stretching at the shoulders. If hanging lightweight sweaters, use padded or wide hangers to prevent shoulder bumps.
3. Avoid Overcrowding
Give your gear space to breathe. Cramming it into a packed drawer or wardrobe increases creasing and may trap odours.
4. Use Natural Fresheners
Add a natural deodoriser to your drawer or wardrobe — cedar blocks, charcoal sachets, or even a fabric-friendly dryer sheet can keep everything smelling fresh.
Extra Tips for Long-Term Care
✦ Spot Clean Minor Stains
Rather than washing the entire garment, use a damp cloth and mild soap to treat small marks. This helps preserve the fabric between washes.
✦ Use Vinegar for Stubborn Odours
Soak particularly smelly items in a solution of one part white vinegar to four parts cold water for 15–30 minutes before washing. It neutralises odour-causing bacteria naturally.
✦ Avoid Ironing or Dry Cleaning
Most gym wear doesn’t need ironing. If you must remove creases, opt for steaming. Dry cleaning is usually unnecessary and can damage performance materials unless the label says otherwise.
Final Thoughts
Gym hoodies and sweaters are more than just warm-up gear — they’re part of your performance arsenal. With proper washing, drying, and storage, you’ll extend the life of your garments and maintain their comfort, fit, and functionality.
