In the world of gym clothes, compression garments continue to grow in popularity. Wearing compression shirts provides a number of advantages, including increased circulation and reduced swelling. Learn how to wash compression shirts and extend the life of these amazing workout clothes.
Compression shirts are not only beneficial for those looking to stay healthy and boost their workouts, but also for professional athletes searching for ways to reduce injuries and boost performance. Serious athletes understand for the best outcomes, use compression shirts every day.
However, do you know how to clean and care for your high-performance workout shirts? Continue reading to learn how to keep them clean and long-lasting!
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How to Wash Compression Shirts
Best laundry detergent
Since the fibers in compression shirts are so delicate, mild detergents can help them last as long as possible. Bleach or other harsh detergents will damage the fibers and should be avoided.
➥See… Active Wear Laundry Detergent & Soak – Formulated for Sweat and Workout Clothes
While you might be tempted to add additional detergent to your dirty compression shirt, only require a fraction of that is actually required.
Finally, do not use fabric softener on your athletic compression shirts. Fabric softeners cover a fabric’s surface with electrically charged chemical compounds, enabling fibers to “stand up” from the surface and imparting a softer and fluffier feel. However, these chemical compounds leave a film on compression shirts, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and odor.
➥Also, see… Mediven Medi-Care Compression Garment Laundry Detergent
Using a Washing Machine
Check the labels. Most compression shirts will say “machine wash”, however, launder them like you would delicates. It is recommended to wash compression clothing together or use a mesh laundry bag for delicates when washing with other clothing items.
➥See… Set of mesh laundry bags for delicates
Hand Wash Only
If your item requires hand washing, follow these steps:
- Wash and rinse your compression shirts in cold water
- When drying the clothing, roll it on a dry towel or gently press it to absorb the extra moisture
- ➤Do not wring or stretch your compression shirt.
➥Read also… Mens compression shirt for runners
How to Dry Compression Shirts
Air dry
The best way to dry compression shirts is to roll the garment in a dry towel, or gently press it to absorb the extra moisture.
Machine dry
If using a dryer, the temperature dial should be set on a no-heat (low-heat) air drying cycle because excessive heat exposure can damage the elastic fibers of your compression shirts. If your garment contains a silicone band, using the no-heat dryer option will protect it.
➥Read also… Mens compression undershirts
Tips For Taking Care of Your Compression Shirts
Wash promptly after use
Develop a habit of washing your compression shirts immediately after you return from the gym or workout. Your gym bag is the perfect environment for bacteria to grow due to sweat and dead skin on your clothing.
Sweat (and bacteria) left on compression shirts for extended periods of time can cause stains, spots, and odors that are hard to remove.
➥Read also… Compression shirts for heat protection
Always wash colors and whites separately
Just like you would with your normal laundry loads, wash whites and colors separately. This will keep your white garments brilliant and colors vivid.
Always use cold water
Never use hot or warm water when washing your compression shirts.
Never use fabric softener
Never use fabric softener on your athletic compression shirts. Fabric softeners cover a fabric’s surface with electrically charged chemical compounds, enabling fibers to “stand up” from the surface and imparting a softer and fluffier feel. Also, avoid using laundry detergents that include fabric softeners
➥Read also… Slimming shirts
Prevent pilling
The term “pills” refers to small, solid lint balls that form on the surface of materials such as clothing, while “pilling” refers to the act of forming them. Most pills may be sliced or scraped away using a cloth comb or a battery-operated pill/lint remover.
Use a mesh bag for delicates to prevent pilling from occurring.
Summary
Compression shirts are a great way to boost your athletic performance, as well as provide immediate relief to sore muscles and improve circulation.
Keep your compression shirts fresh and fit by taking precautions to wash and care for them properly. Compression shirts can last several years with simple handling and care tips provided.