How to care for sportswear and footwear
Choosing sportswear is only half the battle. To ensure your items retain their original appearance for longer and look good even after multiple washes, you need to care for them properly.
01
main recommendations
Before washing, no matter how obvious it may seem, you should read the care label. Manufacturers often provide precise care instructions for their clothing. This is done to ensure the garment retains its color and basic fabric properties longer.
- WashingWhen washing, avoid using laundry detergents and fabric softeners. This is because sportswear is treated with special compounds that provide protection from ultraviolet rays. These treatments will fade over time, but there’s no point in rushing this process. Using these products also negatively impacts the elastic properties of the fabric.
If items are made of high-tech materials, it’s best to wash them in cold water. High temperatures can damage the fabric structure. A gentle cycle is recommended. A standard cycle will negatively impact the elasticity and properties of the materials, leading to rapid wear. - Drying and ironingIdeally, dry athletic clothing in a cool, low-humidity place. Hot air is particularly damaging to stretchy fabrics, causing them to lose elasticity and eventually begin to fray and fade.
When ironing athletic clothing, the optimal ironing setting is low or medium. Typically, the setting is selected based on the type of material indicated on the garment’s label. Some fabrics used in athletic clothing, such as elastane, spandex, or lycra, are best avoided entirely. These fabrics are highly elastic and may warp when exposed to high temperatures.
02
Basic rules for caring for sneakers
Major athletic shoe brands recommend hand-washing sneakers and other footwear exclusively. However, with the right approach and a few simple guidelines, your favorite sneakers may still look great after a machine wash.
-
Rule 01
Shoes made of genuine or faux leather, as well as those with various glued-on elements, should definitely not be washed. Accessories often end up separated from the sneakers after machine washing. Shoes made of synthetic materials, such as Duralon or synthetic leather, on the other hand, are durable enough to withstand multiple washes. -
Rule 02
The laces and insoles should still be taken out and washed separately. If we are talking about special orthopedic insoles, then they need to be washed by hand. If machine washed, such a product may lose its original shape. -
Rule 03
Before placing sneakers or other athletic shoes in the washing machine drum, thoroughly clean the soles of any dirt, leaves, small stones, or other debris that may have become lodged in the treads during outdoor running. Afterward, place the sneakers in a special shoe bag. If you don’t have one, an old pillowcase or towel can be a good alternative. These can fill the empty space in the drum and cushion the impact of the shoes during washing. -
Rule 04
It’s best to wash athletic shoes on the most delicate cycle and at the lowest temperature. Washing them in hot water will warp them. Drying is best at room temperature. Never expose sneakers to a hair dryer. The hot air and high temperatures will melt the glue that holds them together, causing the shoes to fall apart.
03
conclusion
Following these simple care recommendations for sportswear and footwear will ensure they last a long time without losing their original appearance.
