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Running a marathon is a big task—but your laundry shouldn’t have to be! When training for a marathon, you may find yourself investing in performance and sweat wicking fabrics to maximize your comfort as you run. These fabrics are tightly woven to help divert moisture, allow sweat to evaporate, and keep you cool. However, these benefits come with a downside. If not properly washed, bacteria can get caught in the tight knit fibers, leading to stubborn odors. Not sure how to wash running gear? Here are a few tips for runners to keep the laundry hamper from overflowing.
HOW TO WASH RUNNING CLOTHES
First things first, be sure to check the care label! The tiny tag can hold a lot of important information straight from the manufacturer. (Not sure what all those symbols mean? Consider our Washing Machine Magnet your guide!)
When in doubt, wash your running clothes with cold or lukewarm water. Some fibers such as spandex are not designed for high heat, and can lose their elasticity. We recommend washing your clothes as soon as possible to prevent Permastink—that nasty, stuck-in-your-clothes smell that stubbornly clings to your workout clothes. Luckily, Dropps Active Wash is designed specifically to tackle permastink, with 5 enzymes that clean every type of stain and keep your running clothes smelling fresh. Simply wash your gear with one Active Wash pod (scented or unscented, take your pick!) to wash your sweat clean away.
When your clothes are so fresh and so clean, skip the dryer, which can cause damage or shrinkage, shortening the lifespan of your clothes. Hang your clothes to dry near a fan or in direct sunlight. (Bonus—the sun’s rays discourage bacterial growth and add an extra zap of freshness!)
HOW TO WASH RUNNING SHOES
Your shoes are the MVP of your running kit, so you want to make sure to treat them right!
Like your post-run stretching routine, it can be nice to give your shoes a bit of a massage. After a run, use an old toothbrush to remove any heavy buildup of mud and dirt. Clap the soles of your shoes together to remove dirt easily, and then let your shoes dry with the laces undone and the insoles taken out. If you have access to a sunny place, be sure to take advantage of the sun’s natural anti-bacterial properties!
If your running shoes get really dirty, you can give them a proper hand wash! Remove the shoe laces and insoles, and dissolve a Dropps Laundry Pod in a bowl of lukewarm water. If you have white running shoes, consider adding an Oxi Booster pod for extra stain fighting power! Use an old toothbrush to clean the sole of the shoe, and a wet sponge or Swedish Dish Cloth to wash the upper, softer parts. Avoid soaking the shoe in water, as this can damage the fabric and adhesive! Hand wash the insoles and laces, and then allow them to air dry. Your shoes will be ready for your next big adventure!