How to Wash Sports Bras To Make Them Last Longer

Dive into your active lifestyle with a sports bra that's got your back—literally! Whether you're conquering a run, mastering the art of jumping, or leaping toward your fitness goals, your trusty sports bra is there to keep you distraction-free. But let's face it, after every intense workout, it's left a little, well, sweaty.

Just like you wouldn't toss your high-performance sneakers in the wash without a second thought, your sports bra deserves that same special treatment because it's your partner in crime against gravity.

To ensure it continues to provide the unbeatable support and lift of its first wear, let's unravel the secrets of how to wash sports to give it the TLC it deserves.

RELATED: Why It Matters: What You Wear in the Gym

Wash immediately after every use.

Don't let your sports bra become a breeding ground for unpleasant surprises. While washing it after each workout helps kick odors to the curb, there's more to the story.

Even if your sports bra isn't sending out an SOS in the smell department, resist the urge to toss it back into the drawer like an afterthought. Neglecting regular washing can turn your trusty bra into a cozy haven for bacteria, fungi, and yeast lurking in its fibers. The sensitive area under the breasts, in particular, can become a hotbed for potential issues, including pesky yeast infections.

But that's not all—say hello to unwanted guests like rashes, acne breakouts, bacterial infections, and the notorious nipple chafing if you skimp on the washing routine. The solution? Give your sports bra the attention it deserves.

After your workout, shed that sports bra, and either wash it pronto or let it hang out to air-dry until laundry day rolls around.

Wash by hand.

Knowing how to wash sports bras by hand is the most ideal way to show you care for them. It's like a bubble bath for your activewear. Plus, it's bonus points for being eco-friendly and showing Mother Earth a little love. Handwashing is also the friendliest way of how to wash padded sports bras.

Swap out the regular detergent for something a bit gentler like hand soap, laundry soap, or even shampoo. Your sports bra will thank you for skipping the harsh chemicals. Regular detergents can be a bit clingy, and we're not talking about a good kind of cling! They tend to stick around in the fibers, leading to unwanted odors.

Let your sports bra soak up the suds for a cozy 20 to 30 minutes. Then give it a gentle scrub with your hands. When the bubbly party is over, drain the sink and refill it with cold water to rinse out every last bit of soap. Your sports bra will emerge feeling refreshed and ready for another round of action.

Wash in a machine.

While knowing how to wash sports bras in the washing machine is not a star treatment, it will also do. So how to wash sports bras with removable pads?

If your sports bra is taking a spin in the washing machine, buckle up those clasps and remove any pads for a hand wash. Nestle it snugly inside a lingerie bag, especially if it's cozying up with other laundry pals.

Check the tag for care instructions (or play it safe with the delicate cycle in warm or hot water if the tag's playing hide and seek). Keep it cool with the detergent. Go for the regular stuff or one made for performance fabrics, just don't overdo the soap suds.

RELATED: How to Wash Synthetic Fabrics the Eco-Friendly Way

Skip the fabric softener.

Your activewear clothes are the cool kids made of moisture-wicking synthetic gear. Those specialized fabrics keep you comfy throughout your workout sesh. But they're not big fans of fabric softener. Why? Well, these softener buddies tend to reside in the fibers, trapping sweat and dirt instead of letting them make a clean getaway. That's a no-no for the whole breathability and moisture-wicking game that your gear's got going on. So skip the fabric softener and dryer sheets, and go for a performance-friendly fabric booster to keep those threads in tip-top shape.

Lay it out flat to dry.

Keep those sports bras in their best shape by steering clear of the dryer, especially on high heat. That heat can be a bit too enthusiastic, stretching out the fabric and elastic, leaving your trusty bras less supportive and a bit out of their groove.

The good news? These babies are quick-drying champs because they're made of quick-drying fabrics. Just lay them out on a counter or towel, or casually drape them over a drying rack for that breezy vibe. Avoid hanging them by the straps. They're not into the stretchy limbo game.

Replace a worn-out bra.

Even with all the TLC in the world, your sports bra is a hero with a shelf life. Keep an eye out for the SOS signals, like a band that's lost its oomph and just hangs out without support, or a bra that decides to take a ride when you lift your arms.

If you spot pilling or worn-out fabric patches, it's like a battle scar indicating it's time for a new recruit. And let's not forget the telltale signs of chafing or a lingering odor post-wash – your sports bra might just be waving the retirement flag.

With proper care, these trusty companions can be by your side for about a year of regular adventures. So when it's time for a wardrobe update, make sure to pick a new recruit with the right fit, ample support, and materials that keep you as cool as a cucumber at the gym.

Rotate use among your sports bras.

Let's get the 411 on why it pays to have several sports bras in your activewear wardrobe. Having a little squad of sports bras can seriously level up your fitness game, so it's like one in action, one in the wash, and another patiently waiting in the drawer for its time to shine in your next workout. If you're on the move three days a week or more, this trio is the golden ticket.

Consider diversifying your sports bra wardrobe for different activities.

Low-impact yoga? Grab a zen-like bra, our Freeleaf Cross-Strap Low-Impact Sports Bra.

Medium-impact hiking? Our Sweatleaf U-Neck Crossback Bra might just be the sidekick you need for your adventure.

High-impact trail running? You guessed it, the high-support superhero kind of bra.

But hey, if you're all about simplicity, snagging a high-support bra that can do it all is a smart move. Bonus points if it has adjustable straps, like our Flyleaf UPF50+ Swim Bra. You can easily loosen them for those chill sessions or give 'em a little tug for that extra oomph when needed.

So let's get that sports bra collection thriving and ready to tackle any workout adventure.

Love Your Sports Bras, and They Will Treat Your Ladies Right.

Your sports bra is your ladies' hero, right up there with your trusty running shoes and gear. Give it the love it deserves, and you'll be in for the long haul of runs, workout sessions, and all the activities that make you feel awesome.

These simple laundry hacks aren't just about keeping your sports bra in tip-top shape. They're a money-saving, support-boosting secret weapon for all your fitness adventures.

If you want sports bras that'll be your ally for a great deal of adventures, check out our amazing collection of Sports Bras. Your perfect soulmate might be just waiting for you in our treasure trove.