Buzz
Sweaty clothes reek, but workout wear is notorious for stinking the most. Those moisture-wicking leggings, performance socks, and ‘tech’ shirts? Ugh. These fabrics tend to trap the worst-smelling bacteria.
The bad smell doesn’t come from sweat itself; it’s actually the bacteria on our skin that break down our sweat and oils, and they’re the real culprits behind the odor.
According to a 2014 study published in Applied Environmental Microbiology, polyester fabrics are a prime breeding ground for Micrococcus bacteria after intense sweating. The study also explains that fabrics designed to be airy or moisture-wicking provide ample oxygen for these bacteria, and once the clothes are removed, our immune system no longer keeps their numbers in check.
Cotton, on the other hand, doesn’t foster bacterial growth as easily and tends to trap the odor within its fibers, which is less noticeable. The advantage of cotton is that detergents work well to eliminate both the smell and the bacteria. Synthetic fibers, however, are smooth and slightly oily, making it more difficult for detergents to remove the bacteria.
So, what’s the solution? From both science and personal experience, I suggest two simple steps:
Opt for cotton. While it might feel wetter as you sweat, if that’s not an issue (and you’re not braving winter workouts where hypothermia could be a concern), cotton will easily freshen up in the wash.
Rinse your workout clothes right away. I like to throw my synthetic gear on the shower floor before I get in. Whether I wash myself before or after, I quickly rinse and wring out the clothes. This helps wash away a lot of sweat and bacteria before they mix and cause odor.
After rinsing promptly, I hang my clothes in the shower (I have hooks specifically for this) and they dry odor-free. After a few wears, I rinse them and throw them in the regular laundry. For extra freshness, consider washing your gear with detergent right after your workout for a thorough clean.
