Sweat Should Be Allowed to Evaporate Before Putting Clothes in the Washer
Be Careful With Excess Detergent and Fabric Softener Use
It has been analyzed that the habit of putting workout clothes directly into the washing machine after exercise may actually cause unpleasant odors. This is because washing clothes before sweat has fully evaporated can prevent the complete removal of bacteria and odor molecules remaining in the fibers.
Putting Clothes in the Washer Before Sweat Dries Causes Odor Fixation
Rebecca Jakeman, a lead researcher at the British consumer group "Which?", explained in a recent interview with the Daily Mail that "if you don't give sweat a chance to evaporate, bacteria and odors remain in the fibers, so bad smells can persist even after washing."
Functional fabrics commonly used in workout clothes are designed to absorb sebum, which is secreted along with sweat, into the inner layers of the fabric. Thanks to this structure, comfort can be maintained during exercise, but if laundry management is not proper, odors can accumulate easily as a drawback.
In particular, leaving wet clothes in a laundry pile after a workout creates a humid environment that allows bacteria to thrive. If odor molecules become deeply embedded in the fabric during this process, it becomes difficult to completely remove them through regular washing.
Although there may appear to be no problem immediately after washing, when moisture returns due to body heat and sweat, odors can reappear. This phenomenon is interpreted as being caused by microbial activity remaining inside the fibers.
Ventilation and Turning Clothes Inside Out Before Washing... Basic Care Is Essential
The first care method recommended by experts is "ventilation." Before washing, workout clothes should be hung in a well-ventilated area to allow sweat to fully evaporate. This is considered the simplest and most effective way to reduce internal moisture in the fibers and inhibit the growth of bacteria.
When washing, it is better to turn the clothes inside out so that the inner surface faces outward. This is because sweat and sebum are mostly concentrated on the inside. Doing so allows the contaminated area to come into direct contact with water and detergent, improving the cleaning effect.
The amount of detergent used is also an important variable. Experts advise using about half the usual amount. Using too much detergent can leave residues on the fibers, which can actually create an environment that traps bacteria.
It is also best to avoid using fabric softener. This is because it can coat the fine structure on the surface of functional fibers, reducing sweat absorption and breathability. In fact, many sportswear brands prohibit the use of fabric softeners on their laundry labels for this reason.
Low-Temperature Washing and Air Drying Determine the Lifespan
Washing temperature is also a key care factor. Experts generally recommend washing at low temperatures below 30°C, and explain that effective cleaning can sometimes be achieved even at 20°C. Washing at excessively high temperatures can damage the structure of functional fibers. In particular, it is preferable to use washing machine settings specifically for synthetic fibers or sportswear.
It is also best to avoid using a dryer. Spandex, which is used in leggings or cycling shorts, can easily lose its elasticity when exposed to high temperatures. This not only reduces comfort but can also diminish the garment’s functional performance. Therefore, experts recommend air drying as the most reliable method. Drying in a well-ventilated space minimizes fiber damage and helps reduce odor formation.
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
