Keeping Your Hot Yoga Clothes Fresh and Clean
Do your yoga clothes smell? If you answered NO, you’re mistaken! We sweat—a LOT in heated yoga classes! While this is fantastic for circulation, detoxification, stamina, and more, if we don’t take proper care of our clothing and towels, they can start to smell. Even if they come out of the wash smelling fresh, you might notice a musty odor during your first downward dog. That’s more than likely coming from your clothes and not your body.
Whether you’re a regular at our Minneapolis hot yoga studio or a newbie exploring yoga, maintaining your gear is essential. Here are our favorite tips for keeping your clothes fresh:
Immediate Post-Class Care
After class, either wash/soak your clothes immediately or let them dry; avoid leaving them balled up in a bag or hamper. This simple step can make a huge difference in preventing odors.
Proper Daily Washing Techniques and Maintenance
Turn Clothes Inside Out: Especially leggings, to get to the fabric that is closest to your skin.
Moderate Soap Use: Don’t overdo the soap—more soap can lead to buildup rather than cleaner clothes.
Skip the Fabric Softener: Fabric softeners can trap in odors and aren't ideal for athletic wear.
Pre-Soaking: Before washing, pre-soak your clothes in a mixture of water and white vinegar for about 30 minutes. Vinegar helps break down any lingering bacteria and odors.
Baking Soda Boost: Add a half cup of baking soda to your wash cycle. Baking soda is a natural deodorizer and can help neutralize any odors.
Lemon Juice Rinse: For a natural and fresh-smelling alternative, add a cup of lemon juice to your wash. The acidity of the lemon juice can help break down oils and sweat residue.
Air Drying: Whenever possible, air dry your clothes outside. Sunlight is a natural disinfectant and can help eliminate odors. If you must use a dryer, avoid using high heat as it can damage the fabric and elastic in your yoga gear.
Essential Oils: Add a few drops of essential oils like tea tree oil or lavender to your wash. These oils have natural antibacterial properties and can leave your clothes smelling fresh.
Use a Sports-Specific Wash Bag: Use a mesh wash bag specifically designed for athletic wear. This can help protect your clothes from getting damaged in the wash and ensure a thorough clean.
Double Rinse Cycle: Running a double rinse cycle can help ensure all detergent and cleaning agents are thoroughly washed out, preventing buildup and keeping your clothes fresh.
Deep Cleaning
For a first-time deep clean, dump all your clothes into a bathtub and soak them with a special product like Active Wear Detergent.
Practicing power yoga in Minneapolis means your clothes need extra care due to the intense workouts and sweating. By following these tips, you can ensure that your yoga gear stays fresh and ready for every class, helping you focus on your practice without any distractions.
Stay fresh, stay focused, and keep sweating it out in your favorite hot yoga class!