How to Care for Activewear: Keep Your Gym Clothes Fresh, Vibrant, and Long-Lasting

 

Your activewear should work as hard as you do—whether you're running a marathon or running after toddlers. At Mama Movement, we create vibrant, high-performance activewear using recycled materials, designed to support both your body and the planet. But what happens after the workout?

Here's your stress-free, mum-life-approved guide to caring for your activewear—without turning laundry into a full-time job.


1. Rinse Activewear Right After Your Workout 🚿

✨ Reduce the stink + skip a second laundry basket!

Take your sweaty activewear into the shower with you. Give it a quick rinse and hang it over the tap or towel rail to drip dry.
This stops bacteria and odour from setting in—and saves you from hunting down mystery smells days later.


2. Wash in Cold Water Using Mild Detergent 💧

✨ Set it and forget it.

Use a cold cycle with a gentle or activewear-specific detergent. Harsh detergents can trap smells or damage fabric.
Washing cold also helps keep the colours vibrant and saves energy.

Pro Tip: Turn your leggings inside out before tossing it in the wash. This protects the printed designs from friction, so your colourful leggings stay vibrant wear after wear.


3. Skip Fabric Softener ❌

✨ Less fuss, fewer decisions.

Fabric softener reduces breathability and traps odour. So go ahead and remove it from your routine altogether—you won’t miss it!


4. Use a Wash Bag for Sports Bras and Delicates 🧼

✨ A must-do for hookback bras.

Using a wash bag for delicate items—especially hookback sports bras—is essential. It prevents hooks from catching, stops straps from getting stretched out, and helps your gear last longer. At Mama Movement, we even give you a FREE delicates wash bag on your first order from us!


5. Don’t Let It Fester 🧺

✨ Avoid the gym bag of doom.

Sweaty leggings crumpled in the bottom of a bag = bacteria central.
Get into the habit of hanging up your gear as soon as you’re home or done working out.

Practical tip: Keep a few hooks near the laundry or bathroom just for airing out activewear.


6. Air Dry—Not Tumble ☀️

✨ Save your activewear and your electricity bill.

Heat wrecks elastane. Instead, lay flat or hang to air dry. It’s better for your gear, better for the environment, and easier on the budget.


7. Schedule a Quick Vinegar Soak ✨

✨ When your gear still smells even after washing...

If odour lingers, try this natural solution:

  • Mix 1 part white vinegar with 4 parts cold water

  • Soak for 15–20 minutes

  • Wash as usual

Low-effort option: Do this soak while prepping dinner—then throw it in the wash later.


8. Spot Clean Stains When They Happen 🎯

✨ Future-you will be grateful.

Got a splash of smoothie or sunscreen? Quickly dab with water and a tiny bit of detergent or bicarb paste before it sets.
You’ll avoid long soak sessions down the line.


9. Rotate Between 2–3 Sets to Give Them a Break ♻️

✨ Less wear = less washing = less work.

Wearing the same pair every day breaks them down fast. Having a few go-to sets means your activewear lasts longer and washes are more efficient.

Mama tip: Keep your go-to sets folded together so they’re easy to grab and go, no outfit planning required.


10. Wash After Every Wear (Even if You Didn’t Sweat Much) 🧼

Even light activity = body oils + bacteria.
Wash after each wear to keep odour at bay and your skin happy.


Real Talk: Caring for Activewear = Caring for Yourself 🌈

You’ve got enough on your plate. This isn’t about perfection—it’s about small habits that protect the pieces you love, reduce waste, and make your wardrobe work smarter. At Mama Movement, our activewear is made from recycled plastic bottles and designed for everyday joy—from workouts to the school run.

By caring for your activewear, you’re making it last—and helping us build a brighter, more colourful future for our planet and our kids.


Got Questions?

Email us anytime at hello@mamamovement.com.au. We’re always here to help you feel colourful, confident, and comfortable.


Enjoy every moment, every workout, and every wear.
Let’s keep the joy—and the colours—alive.

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