Crisp mornings, chilly afternoons, brisk nights, no matter when you’re getting your workout in, your layered activewear still takes on more than you think, even if you aren’t sweating as much. At the end of your workout, you're left with a pile of gear that somehow manages to be sweaty and cold, and stiff all at the same time.
The tricky part? Washing your activewear properly.
The good news: winter workout gear isn’t actually hard to care for; you just need to know a few tricks to keep it fresh, warm, and performing like the day you bought it.
Let’s break it down.
1. Treat Your Layers Like a Team
Cold-weather outfits typically consist of multiple layers, including a base layer, a mid-layer, and an outer shell. Each one plays a different role, so they need different care.
- Base layers: This layer is in direct contact with your skin and absorbs the majority of the sweat. They trap odor easily, so a proper deep clean is needed.
- Mid-layers: Think fleece or lightweight pullovers—this layer is more delicate, so a gentle wash keeps them soft.
- Outer shells: Waterproof or windproof jackets need a cool, careful wash to avoid damaging the coating.
Washing every layer the same way might work in the moment, but it won’t keep them performing or feeling their best long-term.
2. Spot Clean Before Washing
Mud splatter from trail runs? Salt stains from snowy sidewalks? Sweat rings around collars or underarms?
Spot-treating before washing makes a massive difference and prevents stains from setting in.
3. Wash Cold
Cold-weather gear is designed to trap heat and wick moisture, and hot water can mess with both. Cold water protects:
- Elastic
- Coating
- Stretch
- Breathability
- Color
Plus, cold water helps prevent odors from setting, making it easier to keep everything fresh.
4. Use a Detergent That Actually Gets Inside the Fabric
Cold-weather activewear is made with tight-knit, high-tech materials. Traditional detergents mostly clean the surface, which is why odors linger no matter how many times you wash it.
A detergent designed for performance fabrics will get inside those dense layers and rinse out the sweat, oils, and bacteria that cause “the winter stink.”
5. Swap the Fabric Softener for HEX Performance Booster
Fabric softener seems like a good idea when your winter gear starts feeling stiff. But traditional softeners can actually do more harm than good. They clog fibers, trap odors, and reduce the moisture-wicking power that keeps your gear performing at its best.
Instead, reach for the HEX Performance Booster. It helps improve softness, breathability, and moisture control without coating your fabrics or leaving behind residue. Think of it as a conditioning treatment for your gear which enhances comfort while keeping your clothes ready for whatever the season brings.
6. Air Dry
High heat + technical fabrics = stretched-out, damaged gear.
Air drying:
- Preserves shape
- Extends the life of your gear
- Protects fibers
- Keeps outer shells smooth and functional
Lay items flat—especially base layers—so they don’t misshape.
Washing activewear during fall/winter doesn’t need to be complicated; it just needs a little intention. Treat your layers right, avoid the heat, skip the softener, and use products that work with your fabrics instead of against them.
Do that, and your winter gear will stay cozy, clean, and ready for every chilly workout you throw its way.
