Washing Your Workout Clothes: Frequency and Tips for Skin Health

Many of us have a habit of wearing workout clothes more than once before tossing them into the laundry. I've often found myself guilty of this, especially after a lighter workout that doesn’t leave me drenched in sweat. But as I've learned from dermatological experts, this is a topic worth pondering from a health perspective. Are those extra wears risky for our skin?

The Dangers of Sweat and Bacteria

While sweat itself isn't inherently harmful, the real concern arises when it mixes with bacteria residing on our skin. This combination can lead to odor and skin irritations, particularly if sweaty clothes are worn for extended periods post-workout. “The longer sweat and bacteria stay in contact with your skin, the greater the likelihood of developing skin issues,” warns Dr. Brianna Olamiju, a dermatologist based in New York.

Dr. Olamiju highlights that one common issue is acne, particularly in individuals who may be active and then go about their day without changing. “Many of my patients notice breakouts on their chest or back, often after they’ve worked out and not changed immediately.” The dilemma becomes even bigger when considering that even if you take off your sweaty gear and try to rewear it the following day, lingering bacteria can still pose problems.

Workout Intensity Matters

Interestingly, not all workouts yield the same risk levels for skin irritation. Dr. Olamiju notes that the type of exercise you engage in plays a significant role. High-intensity workouts, such as running, hot yoga, or spin classes, produce the most sweat and can lead to breakouts if the garments aren't cleaned promptly. “Lower-intensity activities like Pilates or even walking may be less risky, but individual sweating patterns vary significantly,” she adds.

What to Wash and When

When considering which pieces of clothing should be washed after workouts, Dr. Olamiju emphasizes that some items need more attention than others. For instance, she points out that women should prioritize changing their sports bras — these pieces are particularly susceptible to harboring bacteria. “You might get away with wearing the same shirt again, but the sports bra and underwear need to be swapped out for hygiene reasons.”

Fabric choice also plays a crucial role in this discussion. Many activewear clothes are made with polyester, which can trap sweat and bacteria, while cotton tends to be more breathable and easier on the skin. However, finding cotton activewear can be a challenge in the market today.

Guidelines for Optimal Hygiene

So how often should you wash your workout wear? Dr. Olamiju's rule of thumb is clear: ideally, after every workout. However, she adds that you should use your discretion based on how you feel and how much you've sweat.

If you’re looking to extend the life of your workout gear without compromising skin health, consider these tips:

• Wash after sweat-inducing workouts: Activities that leave you soaked in sweat, such as intense cardio sessions or hot yoga, should lead directly to laundry duty.
• Be selective with what you rewear: Always change your sports bra, underwear, and socks, as they are the closest to your skin and most prone to bacteria.
• Allow clothes to dry completely: Avoid tossing damp garments into a pile. Hang them in a ventilated space to minimize bacterial growth.
• Don’t postpone changing out of sweaty clothing: The longer wet clothes stay on your body, the more opportunity there is for bacterial build-up.
• Do a sniff test: If your gear has any odor or feels damp, it’s best to skip reusing it.
• Consider antibacterial options: Using hypochlorous acid sprays or specific mists can help reduce bacteria on clothing between washes, potentially preventing breakouts.
• Maintain gym hygiene: Always wipe down shared equipment, and try to avoid going barefoot in communal spaces to protect against infections.

It's not necessary to stress about every single wear, but adopting these practices can significantly enhance your skin’s health. When in doubt, opting for freshly laundered clothes can only benefit your skin.

Related:

• How Gross Is It to Wear New Clothes Without Washing Them First?
• 6 Skin Care Mistakes Dermatologists Want You to Stop Making
• Here’s How Often You Should Really Be Washing Your Sheets

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