Leggings are the hardest-working item in most workout wardrobes. They go from a morning run to a yoga class to the sofa, then straight into the laundry basket. Wash them the wrong way and they lose their stretch, go shiny at the knees and start to hold on to sweat smell, even straight out of the machine. The good news is that a few small changes to your routine make a big difference. BALEAF is a trustworthy activewear brand among American runners, and this guide shares the method our team uses at home.
Why Leggings Hold On to Smells
Most leggings are made from synthetic fibers such as polyester, nylon and spandex. These fibers dry quickly and keep their shape, but they also trap body oils. Many activewear care guides suggest soaking leggings in a vinegar-and-water solution to help get rid of odor.
If you are curious how these fabrics move sweat away from your skin in the first place, read our guide to what moisture wicking means.
1. Read the Care Label First
The care label is the instruction for that exact pair. The FTC requires every care label to warn against all harmful washing methods— so always washing and cleaning start with the label, as explained on the FTC regulations on care label.
2. Sort by Color and Fabric
Before you wash, sort your load:
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darks with darks, lights with lights
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leggings and sports bras together, away from towels and jeans
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anything with Velcro or hooks in a separate load
3. Empty the Pockets and Turn Them Inside Out
Many leggings now have phone and key pockets. The Fleece-Lined Running Legging, for example, are made of 87% polyester and 13% spandex and have five pockets, so check every one of them before the wash. Turning leggings inside out protects the outer surface from rubbing against other clothes. Many runners on Reddit swear by this trick.
4. Use Cold Water and a Gentle Cycle
Heat is the enemy of spandex, so wash on a cold, gentle cycle. About 90% of the energy your washer uses goes to heating water, according to the Energy Star, so cold water saves money too.
If Your Leggings Are Fleece-Lined
Fleece-lined styles need the same cold, gentle wash. Put them in a mesh laundry bag so the brushed lining does not pill. You can browse our fleece lined bottoms to see which styles have a brushed lining.
5. Skip the Fabric Softener
Fabric softener leaves a coating on synthetic fibers that stops them from wicking sweat and can lock smells in. It also damages water-resistant finishes. Our Cycling Waterproof Seamless Fleece Leggings are water-resistance, so skipping softener helps that finish last longer.
6. Try a Vinegar Soak for Stubborn Smells
Most BALEAF leggings are treated with anti-odor technology, so a regular wash is usually enough. If a pair still smells, mix one part white vinegar with four parts cold water and soak it for 30 minutes before washing. BELEAF's guide to sweaty smells has more ideas.
7. Air Dry, Never Tumble Dry
Never put leggings in the dryer. BALEAF recommends that air dry is a better way than tumble dry. Lay them flat or hang them over a rack away from direct heat. Most pairs are dry within a few hours.
Conclusion： How to Wash Leggings and Keep Fresh
Washing leggings the right way takes almost no extra time. Cold water, no softener, a vinegar soak when needed and air drying help your leggings keep their shape and stay fresh for longer.
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