The Ultimate Busy Mom’s Guide to Activewear Care

Hey mama, we know you’ve got enough on your plate, so let’s make taking care of your activewear one less thing to stress about. Whether you’re dashing to school drop-offs, squeezing in a quick workout, or chasing kids around the house, your activewear works just as hard as you do. With these simple care tips, your favorite leggings, joggers, bras, and tanks will stay looking fresh and feeling comfy for the long haul!

 

1. Why Proper Activewear Care Matters

Activewear isn’t just about looking good (though, we know you totally do!). It’s made from special fabrics like spandex, nylon, and recycled polyester that are built to handle all your bending, squatting, and sprinting after toddlers/ kids / and partners  lol. But, like all superheroes, they need a little TLC to keep their powers. Proper care helps prevent common issues like fading and losing stretch, meaning your go-to pieces will stay in action for a long time. 

2. Wash Like a Pro (And Save Time!)

We get it, laundry is probably never-ending. But to keep your activewear in top shape, a little extra care in the wash goes a long way. 

• Turn It Inside Out

Before tossing your leggings, joggers, bras, or tanks in the wash, turn them inside out. This simple step protects the fabric from wear and tear and keeps colors from fading faster than your patience at bedtime.

• Machine Wash in Cold Water

Hot water might be great for sanitizing baby bottles, but not so much for activewear. Cold water helps protect the stretch and structure of the fabric. Plus, it’s eco-friendly, and hey, that’s a win!

• Skip the Harsh Detergents

Avoid detergents with bleach or fabric softeners. These can break down the fabric and make your favorite pieces lose their shape quicker. Opt for a mild detergent instead—and don’t over-soap! Too much soap can get trapped in the fabric and reduce its breathability. Less is more!

 3. Drying Tips: Air is Your Friend

After washing, resist the urge to throw your activewear in the dryer on high heat. Heat is the enemy of elasticity (a.k.a. what makes your leggings so comfy and stretchy).

• Lay Flat to Dry

If you’ve got the space, laying your pieces flat to dry is the best option. This helps them maintain their shape and prevents any shrinking.

• Tumble Dry Low (If You Must)

Need them dry quicker? No problem, just make sure to tumble dry on a low setting. A little patience now means you won’t be shopping for new leggings every couple of months.

4. Storing Your Activewear

How you store your activewear can also affect its lifespan. We know busy moms don’t have time for intricate folding methods (we’re not Marie Kondo-ing here), but a few quick storage tips will help:

• Fold, Don’t Hang

Hanging can stretch out the fabric over time, especially for bras and leggings. Instead, fold your items or (let’s be real) leave them in the laundry pile because let’s face it—you’re probably wearing them again tomorrow.

5. Stain Removal: Keep Calm and Spot Clean

Life happens. Whether it’s a baby’s snack landing on your lap or a post-workout sweat stain, your activewear is bound to get dirty. No worries—here’s how to handle stains like a pro: 

• For Oil Stains (Food or Otherwise):

Dab the spot with a bit of Dawn dish soap and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing. This works wonders on grease and oil stains without damaging the fabric.

• For Sweat and Deodorant Stains:

A regular spot remover will do the trick. Just make sure to treat it right away, so the stain doesn’t set in!

 6. Eco-Friendly Care Tips

If you’re looking to be kinder to the planet (and your wardrobe), here are a few eco-friendly care practices that not only save energy but also extend the life of your activewear:

• Avoid Over-Washing:

Let’s face it, if you’re just wearing your leggings to run a quick errand, you probably don’t need to wash them every single time. Over-washing can break down the fabric more quickly, so only toss them in the laundry when necessary.

• Don’t Overdo the Detergent:

Remember, too much soap can get trapped in the fabric, reducing breathability and making them feel stiffer over time. Stick to the recommended amount on the detergent label (or even a little less).

7. Pro Tips for Longevity: Keep Your Faves Looking New

We want your activewear to last you through all the school drop-offs, workouts, and grocery runs. These easy tricks will help extend their lifespan:

 

• Wash Separately:

Keep your activewear away from rough fabrics like towels or jeans, which can cause pilling. Instead, wash them with similar fabrics to avoid friction.

• Wash Inside Out:

Turning your activewear inside out before washing protects the outer fabric from wear and tear, especially when it comes to leggings and joggers.

• Stick to Cold Water:

Cold water washes are gentler on the fabrics, helping them retain their color and stretch longer.

 

Conclusion: Keep Calm and Wear On!

 

With just a little extra care, your favorite activewear pieces can stay looking as good as they feel for the long haul. Remember, it’s not just about looking great (though that’s a bonus)—it’s about making sure your clothes can keep up with your super mom lifestyle.

 

Now go ahead, rock those leggings like the powerhouse mom you are!

 

#MomLifeHacks #ActivewearCare #BearAndRoo