Jersey is important to more than just athletes. Comfortable and high-quality sportswear is a long-term investment for all sports enthusiasts.
However, comfort is not the sole concern of sportswear owners. Maintenance is also an important factor. How to make your sportswear last?
This article will discuss sportswear maintenance tips so that your jerseys last without fading or tearing easily. Read this article before purchasing new sportswear!
Brief Summary
- Wash sportswear with cold water and mild detergent.
- Turn sportswear inside out when washing and ironing.
- Avoid using a machine dryer.
Why Does Sportswear Need Special Maintenance?
Sportswear requires special maintenance because it is made from different materials from day-to-day clothes. Thus, sportswear cannot be treated the same way as other shirts and trousers.
For example, sportswear can be made of nylon, polyester, or spandex, unlike shirts that are typically made of cotton. Sportswear’s unique fabrics have different textures, can absorb moisture easily, and are flexible for active movement.
These materials cause sportswear to be more prone to damage if not maintained properly.
How to Wash Sportswear Properly
Taking good care of sportswear starts with washing it the right way. Every piece of sportswear comes with care instructions. In general, this is how to wash sportswear properly so that it lasts longer and doesn't fade.
Wash Sportswear After Use
After exercising, wash your jersey immediately. Sweat that sticks to the jersey can damage the threads and fibers of the garment if left for too long.
Turn Sportswear Inside Out When Washing
Turn sportswear inside out before washing to prevent the color from fading. This also protects any screen printing or embroidery on the outer layer of the jersey.
Wash with Cold Water
It is best to wash sportswear with cold water, as warm or hot water can cause the fabric to stretch, especially for sportswear made of elastic materials such as spandex and polyester.
Use the Right Detergent
Avoid detergents with strong fragrances or bleach to prevent damaging the fibers and color. If possible, look for detergents that are specifically designed for sportswear to remove odors and sweat without damaging the fabric.
Avoid Fabric Softeners
Fabric softeners can cause residue buildup on fabrics and reduce their ability to absorb liquids.
As an alternative, remove odors from clothing with baking soda or vinegar. However, do not use it too much or too often.
How to Dry Sportswear without Damaging the Fabric
The process of drying sportswear varies depending on the material. Some can be dried by hanging them up, but others must be laid flat to maintain their shape. Follow the instructions on each clothing label.
In general, here's how to dry sportswear:
Don’t Use A Dryer
Dryers emit hot air that can damage elasticity or even cause jerseys to shrink. It is best to air-dry your clothes.
Avoid Direct Sunlight
Sunlight is effective at killing bacteria, but it can cause the color of your sportswear to fade quickly. Dry your clothes inside out and place them in the shade.
Don’t Over-Squeeze
This can damage the elastic fibers in the material. It is best to press your sportswear gentle to remove excess water.
How to Wash Full-Printed Jerseys
Many jerseys are screen-printed and require extra care, as the print may be damaged or peel off. Follow these tips to care for your full-printed jersey.
Hand Wash
The best way to wash a full-printed jersey is by hand. Turn the sportswear inside out when washing, use cold water, and mild detergent.
Full-printed jerseys can still be machine-washed as long as it is done correctly. Use cold water and a low wash cycle.
Use A Stain Remover
If there are stains, avoid adding more detergent. It is better to use a stain remover and wipe it with a clean cloth.
Separate Different Colors, Textures, and Materials
When washing jerseys by hand or machine, separate them from other heavy fabrics, such as denim or towels, to avoid other types of cloth rubbing against the jersey’s sensitive material.
Also, separate jerseys of different colors, such as white and red, to prevent color bleeding that could leave stains.
Things to Avoid in Jersey Maintenance
Here are some common mistakes people make when caring for their jerseys.
- Not turning the jersey inside out when washing and ironing.
- Not washing the jersey immediately after use.
- Using fabric softener.
- Washing with hot water.
- Using a washing machine dryer.
FAQ
Should sportswear be washed by hand or in the washing machine?
It is best to follow the care instructions on the sportswear. Some sportswear can be machine-washed, but to be on the safe side, washing by hand is a gentler alternative.
Can sportswear be ironed?
Yes, but ironing sportswear must be done carefully.
- Turn the sportswear inside out.
- Use the lowest iron setting and avoid steam.
- Cover the sportswear with a clean cloth when ironing.
How to remove wrinkles from sportswear?
Wrinkles in sportswear can be removed by ironing. However, ironing sportswear must be done carefully.
Can sportswear be dry cleaned?
Yes. If you have trouble washing sportswear at home, it may be a good idea to use a professional dry cleaning service to keep your sportswear clean and free from damage.
Conclusion
Sportswear is made from different materials than regular shirts and trousers, so it requires special care. In general, sportswear should be washed by hand and dried manually, not in a washing machine or dryer.
Sportswear does not need to be ironed, but if you want to remove wrinkles from the fabric, iron it inside out while covering it with a cloth.
Interested in buying your first sportswear? Check out DRX Wear’s jersey collection. DRX Wear guarantees quality and authenticity, and each jersey is equipped with an NFC chip for originality authentication. It's time to invest in stylish, durable sportswear.
