The Best Way to Store Your Activewear to Keep It Fresh

After a sweaty workout, the last thing you want to think about is how to store your activewear. But how you store your gym clothes can make a huge difference in their lifespan and freshness. Proper storage prevents odors, maintains fabric elasticity, and keeps your favorite pieces looking new for longer.

In this guide, we'll walk you through the best practices for storing your activewear, from folding techniques to storage solutions. Whether you have a dedicated gym drawer or a closet overflowing with leggings and sports bras, these tips will help you keep everything organized and ready for your next workout.

Why Proper Activewear Storage Matters

Activewear is designed to wick moisture and stretch with your body, but these technical fabrics are also delicate. Improper storage can cause them to lose their shape, develop permanent wrinkles, or trap odors. For instance, hanging stretchy leggings by the waistband can stretch them out over time, while folding them can prevent creases and maintain their compression.

Additionally, storing damp or sweaty clothes in a gym bag can lead to mildew and bacteria growth, causing unpleasant smells that are hard to remove. By giving your activewear a little extra care in storage, you'll not only keep it fresh but also extend its life, saving you money in the long run.

• Always let activewear air dry completely before storing to prevent mildew.
• Avoid hanging stretchy items like leggings and sports bras; fold them instead.

Folding vs. Hanging: What Works Best

When it comes to storing activewear, not all items should be treated the same. Stretchy fabrics like leggings, joggers, and sports bras should be folded to maintain their elasticity. For example, the Core Legging and Be Free Jogger are best folded neatly and stacked in a drawer, as hanging them can cause them to lose their shape and develop permanent creases.

On the other hand, items like hoodies, jackets, and t-shirts can be hung if you have the space. The All-Day Heavyweight Oversized Hoodie and Lock-In Oversized 100% Cotton Shirt are sturdy enough to be hung without losing their shape. However, be mindful of using padded hangers to avoid shoulder bumps. For delicates like the Ombre Crop Top or DW Cozy Fleece Cropped Hoodie, folding is safer to preserve their softness.

• Fold leggings, joggers, and sports bras to prevent stretching.
• Hang hoodies and cotton tees with padded hangers to maintain shape.

Storage Solutions for Small Spaces

If you're short on space, there are clever ways to store your activewear without cramming everything into a drawer. Use drawer dividers to separate different types of clothing, such as sports bras, crop tops, and shorts. Rolling your items instead of folding them can save space and reduce wrinkles. For instance, roll your X-Series Short or Ultra Light 6" Short to fit neatly in a drawer or on a shelf.

Another space-saving solution is to use clear storage bins or vacuum-sealed bags for off-season items. This keeps your activewear dust-free and organized. For everyday items, consider a hanging organizer with shelves that can be placed in your closet. This way, you can see everything at a glance and grab what you need quickly.

• Use drawer dividers to keep different types of activewear separate.
• Roll shorts and t-shirts to save space and prevent wrinkles.

Keeping Your Activewear Fresh Between Washes

Not every piece of activewear needs to be washed after a single wear, especially if you didn't sweat much. To keep your gym clothes fresh between washes, hang them in a well-ventilated area to air out. You can also use a fabric freshener spray designed for activewear to neutralize odors without damaging the fabric.

When storing worn-but-not-dirty items, keep them separate from clean clothes to avoid transferring odors. A designated 'worn' bin or shelf can help you keep track. For items that need a quick refresh, a steamer can kill bacteria and remove wrinkles, making them ready to wear again.

• Air out worn activewear in a ventilated area before storing.
• Use a fabric freshener spray to keep items smelling clean between washes.

Seasonal Storage: Rotating Your Activewear

As the seasons change, you'll likely swap out lightweight pieces for warmer ones. To store off-season activewear, make sure it's clean and completely dry before packing. Use breathable storage bags or containers to protect them from dust and moisture. Add a few silica gel packets to absorb any excess humidity and keep musty odors at bay.

For delicate items like the Spice Sweater or DW Cozy Fleece Cropped Hoodie, fold them with acid-free tissue paper to help maintain their shape. Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can fade colors. When the season changes again, you'll find your activewear fresh and ready to wear.

• Clean and dry items before storing for the season.
• Use breathable containers and silica gel packets to prevent moisture damage.

Storing your activewear properly doesn't have to be complicated. By following these tips, you can keep your gym clothes fresh, organized, and ready for action. Remember to fold stretchy items, hang sturdy ones, and give your pieces room to breathe. With a little care, your Devoteewear favorites will last longer and perform better, so you can focus on your fitness goals.