Sportkleidung waschen: Die besten Tipps für saubere Funktionskleidung

Properly caring for sportswear is worthwhile! This way, you can protect their quality and functionality over a long period of time. Here are some tips to help you keep both your sportswear and your shoes in top shape.

In the washing machine or by hand? The important thing is what it says on the label!

After sorting in the laundry basket, the first question is: Does the item of clothing need to be washed by hand or can it be put in the washing machine? Hand washing can be time-consuming, but is necessary for some materials. Always check the manufacturer's care instructions to avoid unpleasant surprises.

Close the zippers and turn the clothes inside out

To avoid damage during washing, you should always close the zippers. It's also gentle on sportswear if you turn it inside out - especially with prints. This is a simple rule that can make a big difference to the longevity of your sportswear.

How do you wash compression garments?

Compression clothing, which is very popular with athletes, requires special attention. It is advisable to wash them separately to avoid damage caused by contact with other textiles. Use a gentle wash program to maintain the high elasticity. Select a maximum temperature of 40°C for the wash cycle. If possible, you should opt for hand washing. If the clothes are not too dirty, it is best not to use any detergent or fabric softener.

The right detergent for your sportswear

A lot of dirt collects on sportswear, especially during outdoor activities. Of course, the smell of sweat should also be gone after washing. At the same time, your clothes also need particularly gentle care after your workout. Therefore, only use sports detergent for your sportswear. Even if it is tempting for a nicer scent, it is better to avoid fabric softeners when washing sportswear.

Washing sports shoes in the washing machine - what to look out for?

Now let's move on to an equally important topic - washing sports shoes. Here are some important tips:

Clean the mud off your shoes before washing them

It may sound strange, but before you put your shoes in the washing machine, you should make sure they are clean. Your washing drum will thank you! This mainly involves sand, soil, coarse dirt or small pebbles that may have gotten caught in the tread of the sole. If you use a brush to remove mud and other dirt from your shoes after training, you can wash them properly on the right washing program.

At what temperature should you wash your sports shoes?

Set your washing machine to the correct program - shoes should not be washed at a higher temperature than 40 °C. Sports shoes are usually bonded shoes. Higher temperatures can cause the bonds of the sole layers to loosen and your favorite shoes may need to be repaired or even taken to the cobbler. To protect your shoes, you can also put them in a gentle laundry bag in your washing machine.

How do you dry your shoes after machine washing?

Do not throw your shoes on the radiator or another heat source immediately after washing. Leave them to dry naturally in a place with sufficient ventilation. To avoid damage, do not use the dryer.

However, if you want to dry your kicks quickly indoors, you can place paper towels or rice inside the shoes. Both paper and rice draw the water out of the material without damaging the adhesive that bonds the sole to the shoe. Incidentally, you can not only wash sneakers, but also other footwear such as fabric shoes and ballerinas.

Which shoes should not be washed in the washing machine?

Suede shoes or leather shoes should not be put in the washing machine or automatic washing machine. Care with the right care product is the best choice for them.

Can shoes be washed with clothing?

No, definitely not! Shoes and clothing should be washed separately. Mixing shoes and textiles can cause damage to clothing and shoes. In addition, bacteria, dust and dirt can get onto your clothes when washing shoes. A tip: If your washing machine isn't full enough with your shoes, you can also put your sports bag in the drum. It's easy to forget to clean your bag in everyday life. After a wash cycle, your sports bag is quickly ready for use again and you can transport your washed sportswear to the gym in a clean environment.

Low wash temperature and low spin cycle

The right washing temperature is crucial for the longevity of sportswear. As a rule, washing at lower temperatures is recommended to prevent damage to the materials. If you also select a low spin speed, the machine protects the fibers from stretching too much. This is important for leggings, compression socks or other sportswear of this type. Another advantage: A wash cycle like this is also particularly energy-saving.

How do I wash my thermal underwear?

Because thermal underwear lies directly against the body, it absorbs a lot of sweat. Contaminants such as stains and salt from sweat block air circulation and make the underwear wet. Regular washing is therefore the key to maintaining the comfort and effectiveness of thermal clothing. Thermal underwear should therefore not be left in the laundry basket for too long, but should be washed as soon as possible.

Avoid using normal washing powder when washing your thermal underwear, as this can damage the delicate fibers. It is advisable to use gentle detergents, e.g. mild or sports detergent. Also avoid using fabric softeners. If you wash the laundry by hand, use lukewarm water, do not wring out the laundry too much and dry it flat in a place with good ventilation.

You can also wash the laundry in the machine, following the manufacturer's instructions on the label. For heavily soiled garments, you can use hand washing to preserve the properties, quality and breathability of the laundry. In any case, avoid exceeding the recommended washing temperatures and follow the care tips for storing and drying thermal underwear.

How can you extend the life of your clothes?

To ensure that your favorite sportswear lasts as long as possible, you should follow a few simple rules:

Don't fill the washing machine to the brim: An overfilled washing machine can damage your clothes. In addition, the laundry will not get properly clean in an overfilled drum.
Use fabric softener wisely: fabric softener not only softens clothes, but usually also protects the fibers of the clothes, giving them a better look, a pleasant smell and a comfortable feel. For some sportswear, however, it can be too aggressive and damage the synthetic materials.
Wash the clothes at a lower temperature, e.g. 30℃-40℃. For many fabrics, washing at a lower temperature is just as effective, saves energy and is gentle on the fabrics.
The way to a snow-white color: Gently soak your clothes, concentrating on the stains. Use a soft brush or your hands to unscrew them.
Ventilate properly: Make sure not only that your closet is aired regularly, but also that your drawers, shelves and laundry baskets are well ventilated.

Summary

Washing sports clothing and shoes is actually quite simple with a few basic rules. Always read the labels and the manufacturer's care instructions carefully, as they are the best guide to the washing process. Below you will find some additional tips to help you keep your sportswear in good condition:

Machine wash vs. hand wash

If you choose to hand wash, you have more control over the process and reduce the risk of damaging delicate fabrics. Especially if you only need to wash a small amount of clothes, hand washing is a good choice. However, an automatic washing machine is of course more convenient and saves time. Simply use the special wash program for sportswear.

Sports shoes need special attention

You are probably very attached to your favorite sports shoes, so you should take good care of them. Washing your shoes in the washing machine can work great, but keep a few rules in mind: First remove any coarse dirt from your kicks before you start washing your sports shoes. It's also best to remove the laces. Use a low spin speed and let your shoes air dry.

Attention: If you come back from your hiking vacation and are thinking about washing your hiking shoes, it's better not to do it in the washing machine. Almost all manufacturers of sports shoes that contain special cushioning systems, foams, membranes or gels prohibit washing shoes in the washing machine.

Think about the temperature

Most sports items and shoes should be washed at lower temperatures. Higher temperatures can have a negative effect on the elasticity, colors and durability of the materials. It is therefore better to opt for a gentle wash program.

Is it a good idea to wash shoes with clothes?

No, definitely not. Shoes can damage delicate fabrics and clothes are not cleaned as effectively.

Fabric softener - yes or no?

Softeners can soften the laundry, but they can be too aggressive for some fabrics.

Last step: drying and storage

After washing, remember to dry and store your sportswear properly. Avoid tumble drying and let them air dry instead. Store your shoes in a well-ventilated place to avoid unpleasant odors.

Important questions:

Which program should I choose for my sportswear?

Choose gentle wash programs, especially for functional clothing

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Why wash inside out?

Washing your garments inside out protects the colors and patterns from abrasion during washing.

Do garments shrink when washed at 40℃?

No, washing at 40℃ will not shrink your laundry - the temperature is still too low for that. However, always check the manufacturer's recommendations on the label.

How do you wash sports shoes?

Sports shoes are best washed by hand and not in the machine. However, with the right preparations, many sneakers can also be washed in the washing machine.

How can I wash white sports shoes?

White shoes are best washed at low temperatures and with mild detergents.

How do I dry my sneakers after washing them?

It's best to dry your sneakers in a well-ventilated area and avoid heat sources such as radiators.