Have you ever wondered why your expensive leggings or favorite training shirt don’t look or smell the same after a few months? The answer; your laundry routine could be to blame. Activewear fabrics are made to breathe, stretch, and wick sweat, but they’re also delicate. You might not be aware of it but laundry myths are slowly ruining your performance gear. Let’s discuss the 5 most common myths and solutions to help keep your gear fresh.
Myth #1: More Detergent = Cleaner Clothes
Most people think the logical solution to extra sweaty & smelly workout clothes is using more detergent, but more soap doesn’t mean cleaner clothes. In fact, too much detergent leaves residue that clogs performance fabrics, making them less breathable and trapping odors even more than before.
The Fix: Use a detergent designed specifically for activewear. HEX Performance Laundry Detergent is concentrated and engineered to penetrate synthetic fibers, removing odor at the source without heavy residue, all you need is 1oz for normal size loads and 2oz for large size loads. A little goes a long way.
Myth #2: Fabric Softener Keeps Activewear Soft
Fabric softener might make towels fluffy, but when it comes to activewear it’s not the solution. The coating it leaves behind blocks sweat-wicking and traps bacteria. Over time, your athletic wear won’t breathe as well and in turn will start to smell sooner.
The Fix: HEX Performance® Laundry Booster is crafted to optimize modern fabrics. Unlike traditional softeners that can clog fibers and leave unwanted residue, HEX helps preserve fabric integrity. When added during the rinse cycle, it enhances your wash with anti-static and odor-fighting protection.
Myth #3: Hot Water Kills Odors Better
Hot water does kill bacteria, but it also damages elastic fibers and can cause shrinking. Most activewear uses spandex blends that break down in high heat, which can leave your leggings saggy or misshapen.
The Fix: Wash in cold water with HEX Performance. Its patented technology doesn’t rely on scalding heat to clean deep, which means fresher clothes and longer-lasting fabric. After washing, opt for air drying or use a low-heat tumble dryer setting to prevent damage to the elastic fibers and maintain the fabric's integrity.
Myth #4: Air Fresheners or Sprays Are Enough
Spraying a mist over your gym bag or tossing a scented sheet into the dryer might hide smells for a day, but these don’t fix the real problem. Odor-causing bacteria stay deep in the fabric fibers.
The Fix: HEX Performance® Deodorizer is expertly formulated for modern fabrics and gear that fuel active lifestyles. This versatile spray is designed to clean and neutralize odors on items that are difficult to wash, as well as refresh and revive laundry between washes. It works wonders on activewear, outerwear, yoga mats, sports pads, equipment, shoes, helmets, hats, gear bags, and more—just about anything that needs a quick refresh. Put HEX to the test and tackle your toughest odor challenges. Live Clean™.
Your laundry routine can make or break your activewear. Forget the myths, avoid the shortcuts, and start using products that truly clean and protect your performance fabrics. With HEX Performance your activewear stays as strong as you are.
