How to Stop Activewear from Smelling — Freedom Active Wear
Activewear is designed to keep you comfortable, dry, and confident during every move. But let’s be honest — even the best activewear can sometimes develop that stubborn, lingering odour. You’ve probably washed your leggings or sports bra only to find that the smell returns as soon as you start sweating again.
This guide by Freedom Active Wear dives deep into why activewear smells, how to get rid of odours, and most importantly, how to prevent them from coming back — all while preserving the quality and longevity of your favourite workout pieces.
Why Does Activewear Start to Smell?
Before learning how to fix the problem, it’s essential to understand why it happens in the first place.
1. Synthetic Fabrics and Sweat
Most high-performance activewear is made from synthetic materials such as polyester, nylon, or spandex. These fabrics are incredible at moisture-wicking — drawing sweat away from the body to keep you dry.
However, they also create a perfect environment for odour-causing bacteria. Unlike natural fibres like cotton, synthetic fabrics trap oil, sweat, and bacteria deep within the fibres, where regular detergents can’t always reach.
2. Bacteria Build-Up
When you sweat, bacteria on your skin break down proteins and fatty acids in your sweat. The result? That familiar musty, sour smell. Over time, these bacteria accumulate inside the fabric, especially if your activewear isn’t washed immediately.
3. Improper Washing
Washing activewear with regular detergent, too much fabric softener, or using the wrong water temperature can make things worse. Many laundry products coat the fabric with residue, trapping bacteria and sweat even further.
4. Storage Mistakes
Leaving sweaty gym clothes in a bag, locker, or laundry basket can accelerate bacterial growth. By the time you get around to washing them, the smell has set in — and no amount of lavender-scented detergent will cover it.
The Science Behind Activewear Odour
Activewear odour isn’t just about sweat — it’s a chemical reaction. When sweat and body oils mix with bacteria, they release compounds such as isovaleric acid and ammonia, which are notoriously hard to remove.
Synthetic fabrics tend to absorb and retain these molecules more than natural fabrics, which is why your gym clothes might smell worse than your cotton t-shirt after a workout.
Understanding this helps you choose the right washing routine and preventive care for your Freedom Active Wear outfits.
Step-by-Step: How to Remove Odour from Activewear
Here’s your ultimate guide to banishing stubborn smells — and keeping your activewear fresh and clean.
1. Don’t Let It Sit Too Long
As tempting as it may be to toss your leggings into the laundry pile after a workout, it’s better to air them out first. Hang your clothes in a well-ventilated area before washing. This helps moisture evaporate and reduces bacteria growth.
If possible, wash them as soon as you can. The longer sweat and oils stay in the fabric, the harder they are to remove later.
2. Turn Inside Out Before Washing
The inner surface of your activewear — the part that touches your skin — is where most of the sweat and bacteria accumulate. Turning your garments inside out before washing ensures that the detergent and water reach the dirtiest areas.
3. Skip Fabric Softeners
Fabric softeners may make clothes feel smooth, but they’re terrible for activewear. They coat the fibres with a film that traps odours and reduces breathability. Over time, this residue makes it harder for your clothes to wick moisture effectively.
Instead, use a detergent designed for activewear or performance fabrics. These formulas are made to remove oils, bacteria, and body odour without damaging the material.
4. Use Cold Water
Hot water can break down synthetic fibres and cause shrinkage or loss of elasticity. Always wash your Freedom Active Wear pieces in cold water to preserve fabric integrity and prevent bacteria from setting in.
5. Add a Natural Odour Fighter
If odour persists, try adding one of these natural remedies to your wash cycle:
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White vinegar: Add half a cup to the rinse cycle to neutralise smells and kill bacteria.
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Baking soda: Sprinkle a quarter cup into your detergent drawer to help lift odours and oils.
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Lemon juice: Its natural acidity can break down stubborn odour compounds.
6. Don’t Overload the Machine
Cramming too many clothes into one load means detergent and water can’t circulate properly. Give your garments space to move around freely for a more thorough clean.
7. Air Dry Whenever Possible
High heat from dryers can damage elastic fibres and trap odours. Instead, air dry your activewear in a shaded, breezy spot. Direct sunlight can help kill bacteria, but prolonged exposure can fade colours.
Preventing Odour in Activewear — The Long-Term Approach
Keeping your activewear fresh isn’t just about washing — it’s about adopting a few smart habits.
1. Wash Promptly
Try to wash your workout clothes within 24 hours of wearing them. Even if you can’t, rinse them quickly in cold water to prevent sweat from setting into the fabric.
2. Store Smart
Never stuff sweaty clothes into your gym bag and forget about them. Use a breathable mesh laundry bag or hang them up until you can wash them.
3. Avoid Overusing Detergent
More detergent doesn’t mean cleaner clothes. In fact, excess detergent can leave a sticky residue that traps odours. Use only the recommended amount, or even slightly less.
4. Use Odour-Eliminating Sprays
For quick freshness between washes, try using a fabric-safe antibacterial spray or a natural deodorising mist with essential oils.
5. Invest in High-Quality Fabrics
Quality matters. Premium fabrics — like those used in Freedom Active Wear — are engineered with anti-odour technology, moisture control, and breathability. These materials resist bacteria build-up and last much longer.
Best Fabrics for Odour Resistance
If you’re building an activewear wardrobe, choosing the right fabrics can make a huge difference in how fresh your gear stays.
1. Polyester and Spandex Blends
These are the most common in performance activewear. They’re durable, stretchy, and moisture-wicking. When treated with antimicrobial finishes, they help control bacteria and odour.
2. Merino Wool
This natural fibre is a powerhouse. Merino wool is naturally antimicrobial, breathable, and thermoregulating — making it perfect for all seasons. It resists odour even after multiple wears.
3. Bamboo Fabric
Soft, breathable, and sustainable — bamboo fabric offers natural antibacterial properties and absorbs moisture efficiently.
4. Nylon
Strong and lightweight, nylon dries quickly and provides great shape retention. When combined with spandex, it creates a perfect fit that moves with you.
Freedom Active Wear uses high-performance materials chosen for durability, breathability, and comfort — ensuring you can move confidently, whether you’re training, travelling, or lounging.
Common Mistakes That Make Activewear Smell Worse
Even the best intentions can backfire if you’re unknowingly damaging your gear. Here are the biggest washing mistakes to avoid:
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Using too much detergent — causes residue build-up.
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Using fabric softeners — traps bacteria and odour.
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Washing in hot water — breaks down elasticity and locks in smells.
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Skipping the rinse cycle — leaves detergent residue behind.
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Leaving clothes wet in the machine — creates mildew.
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Not airing out after workouts — allows bacteria to multiply.
Correcting these habits can significantly extend the lifespan of your Freedom Active Wear pieces.
How Often Should You Wash Activewear?
This depends on how you use it.
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For high-intensity workouts: Wash after every use.
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For light activities (like yoga or walking): You can get away with 1–2 wears before washing.
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For casual wear: If you’re wearing leggings for errands, a quick refresh every few wears is fine.
Remember, even if your activewear looks clean, sweat and bacteria can be invisible. Washing regularly helps prevent long-term odour build-up.
DIY Solutions for Persistent Odour
Sometimes, regular washing just isn’t enough. Here are a few advanced hacks for stubborn smells:
1. Vinegar Soak
Mix 1 part white vinegar with 4 parts cold water. Soak your garments for 30 minutes before washing. This breaks down odour-causing compounds and disinfects naturally.
2. Baking Soda Paste
For concentrated odour spots (like underarms), mix baking soda with a bit of water to create a paste. Apply it gently to the area, leave for 15 minutes, and rinse before washing.
3. Freezing Trick
Place your clean, dry activewear in a plastic bag and put it in the freezer overnight. The cold temperature kills bacteria that survive washing.
4. Oxygen-Based Cleaner
Occasionally, add an oxygen booster (like an odour-neutralising laundry additive) to your wash cycle for deep cleaning.
Caring for Freedom Active Wear — Keep It Fresh for Longer
Freedom Active Wear is made with premium, performance-driven materials that deserve proper care. To keep your pieces looking and smelling their best:
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Wash in cold water only.
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Avoid bleach and fabric softeners.
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Use gentle, eco-friendly detergents.
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Air dry in shade to maintain elasticity.
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Store in a cool, dry place.
Regular care not only eliminates odour but also ensures your garments maintain their structure, colour, and comfort — so you can keep feeling the freedom.
The Role of Antimicrobial Technology
Modern activewear brands (including Freedom Active Wear) are investing in antimicrobial fabric technologies. These treatments are infused into the fabric during manufacturing and help:
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Prevent bacterial growth.
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Reduce odour between washes.
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Extend the lifespan of the garment.
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Maintain freshness even during intense workouts.
This makes them perfect for Australia’s warm, humid conditions, where sweat and bacteria thrive.
Sustainable Washing Habits for Eco-Friendly Freshness
Caring for your activewear isn’t just about smell — it’s also about sustainability. Here’s how to keep your clothes clean while protecting the planet:
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Wash only when necessary to reduce water waste.
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Use cold water to save energy.
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Choose biodegradable detergents.
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Air dry instead of using the dryer.
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Wash full loads to maximise efficiency.
These habits not only protect the environment but also preserve the life of your Freedom Active Wear.
Final Thoughts
Smelly activewear is a common struggle — but it doesn’t have to be permanent. By understanding the science of odour, adopting the right washing techniques, and caring for your garments properly, you can enjoy fresh, long-lasting comfort in every workout.
Your Freedom Active Wear pieces are designed to perform with you — all they need is a little extra care to keep smelling as fresh as they feel.
So next time you hit the gym, yoga mat, or the great outdoors, remember: freshness is freedom.
🧺 FAQs About Stopping Activewear from Smelling (Freedom Active Wear)
1. Why does my activewear smell even after washing?
Activewear smells after washing because sweat, oils, and bacteria get trapped deep within the fabric fibres. Regular detergents often can’t break down these residues, especially in synthetic materials like polyester or spandex.
2. How can I make my gym clothes smell fresh again?
Use a sports-specific detergent, wash in cold water, and add half a cup of white vinegar or baking soda during the rinse cycle to neutralise odours and kill bacteria.
3. What’s the best detergent for activewear?
Choose a detergent formulated for performance or activewear fabrics. These detergents are designed to remove sweat, body oils, and odour-causing bacteria without damaging the material.
4. Should I use fabric softener on my activewear?
No. Fabric softeners leave a coating that traps bacteria and sweat, reducing the breathability and effectiveness of your activewear.
5. Can I wash my activewear in hot water?
It’s best to use cold or lukewarm water. Hot water can damage elastic fibres, reduce stretch, and cause odour molecules to cling tighter to the fabric.
6. How often should I wash my workout clothes?
Ideally, wash after every intense workout. For light activities like yoga or walking, you can wash after every second wear, depending on how much you sweat.
7. Can I air dry my activewear?
Yes! Air drying is the best way to preserve elasticity, prevent shrinkage, and avoid heat damage. Hang in a shaded, breezy spot.
8. Why does synthetic fabric smell worse than cotton?
Synthetic materials trap oil and bacteria within their fibres, while cotton absorbs moisture and releases it more easily — making synthetics harder to clean without special care.
9. How can I prevent sweat odour from sticking to leggings?
Rinse your leggings in cold water right after workouts, then wash promptly. Avoid leaving them in your gym bag or laundry basket for long periods.
10. Does vinegar really remove odour from gym clothes?
Yes! White vinegar breaks down bacteria, neutralises acids, and helps lift out sweat residue. Add half a cup to the rinse cycle for best results.
11. What natural remedies remove activewear odour?
White vinegar, baking soda, lemon juice, and tea tree oil sprays are excellent natural odour removers that are gentle on fabric and environmentally friendly.
12. How do I get rid of the mildew smell in my activewear?
Soak your clothes in a vinegar and water solution for 30 minutes before washing. Then air dry completely in sunlight to prevent mould growth.
13. Can I use bleach on my activewear?
Avoid bleach — it weakens fibres, fades colours, and doesn’t effectively remove sweat odour. Instead, use oxygen-based cleaners or activewear-safe detergents.
14. Should I turn my activewear inside out before washing?
Yes. Turning garments inside out ensures detergent reaches the areas where most sweat and bacteria collect — the inside surface of your clothing.
15. Why does my sports bra still smell even after washing?
Sports bras trap sweat and oils in multiple layers. Hand wash or use a gentle cycle with an activewear detergent, then air dry completely.
16. How do I keep my gym bag from smelling?
Remove sweaty clothes immediately after workouts. Wipe down the inside of your gym bag with a mix of water and vinegar, and let it air out regularly.
17. Does freezing activewear remove odour?
Yes! Placing clean, dry activewear in a sealed bag and freezing it overnight can kill bacteria that cause odour.
18. How do I store my activewear properly?
Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated space. Avoid sealed plastic containers that trap moisture and encourage bacterial growth.
19. Can baking soda damage fabric?
No, baking soda is gentle and safe for most activewear. It helps neutralise odours and break down oils when used in moderation.
20. What’s the best way to wash leggings?
Use a gentle cycle, cold water, and activewear detergent. Avoid fabric softener and air dry them inside out for best results.
21. Why does my clean activewear smell bad after sweating again?
Residual bacteria trapped in the fabric reactivate with moisture and body heat, releasing odours during your next workout.
22. Can I hand wash my activewear?
Absolutely. Hand washing is gentler and helps maintain elasticity. Use cold water and a small amount of detergent, then rinse thoroughly.
23. What’s the best way to dry activewear quickly?
Lay flat or hang in a breezy area. If you must use a dryer, choose a low or no-heat setting to protect the fabric.
24. Can I use essential oils in my laundry for freshness?
Yes, adding a few drops of lavender, eucalyptus, or tea tree oil to the rinse cycle adds natural fragrance and antibacterial properties.
25. Do odour-resistant fabrics really work?
Yes. Many premium activewear fabrics are treated with antimicrobial or odour-control technology to prevent bacterial growth.
26. Why does my workout towel smell even after washing?
Towels absorb more sweat and bacteria than clothes. Wash them separately using vinegar and baking soda for a deep clean.
27. Is sweat itself smelly?
Sweat is actually odourless. The smell comes from bacteria breaking down proteins and fatty acids on your skin.
28. Can I use laundry pods for activewear?
Laundry pods can be used, but make sure they’re free of fabric softeners and suitable for synthetics.
29. Should I separate activewear from regular clothes when washing?
Yes. Washing separately prevents lint transfer and allows activewear to be cleaned with the right temperature and detergent.
30. What temperature should I use to wash activewear?
Cold water is best — around 20–30°C. It preserves elasticity, colour, and odour-fighting coatings in the fabric.
31. Can I iron my activewear?
No. Heat can damage synthetic fibres and reduce stretch. Smooth wrinkles by hand or with a cool steamer instead.
32. How do I know if my detergent is residue-free?
Look for labels that say “high-performance,” “activewear safe,” or “no residue.” Avoid detergents that contain perfumes or softeners.
33. What are the signs my activewear needs replacing?
If it stays smelly even after washing, loses elasticity, or shows thinning areas, it’s time to upgrade to a new piece.
34. How can I keep my activewear smelling fresh between washes?
Hang in open air after wearing and use a natural odour-eliminating spray made from vinegar or essential oils.
35. What causes musty smells in stored clothes?
Moisture and lack of airflow cause mildew growth. Always store clean, fully dry clothes in a dry, breathable space.
36. Can eco-friendly detergents clean activewear effectively?
Yes, as long as they’re formulated for sportswear. Many eco detergents now include plant-based enzymes that break down sweat and odour naturally.
37. How do I clean stubborn armpit odour from tops?
Apply a paste of baking soda and water directly to the area, let sit for 15 minutes, then wash as usual.
38. Why do my leggings smell like ammonia?
This happens when sweat and bacteria combine with nitrogen in your body, forming ammonia. Wash promptly to prevent build-up.
39. Can I prevent odour through diet or hydration?
Yes! Staying hydrated and eating less processed food can reduce strong sweat odours since your body releases fewer toxins through perspiration.
40. What makes Freedom Active Wear better for odour control?
Freedom Active Wear uses premium, moisture-wicking, and breathable fabrics with superior odour resistance — keeping you fresh and confident throughout your day.
