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Gymnastics leotards and other custom gymnastics uniforms require special care to preserve the fabric, maintain the fit, and keep the items looking their best. Gymnastics apparel is often made from delicate materials like spandex, nylon, and other performance fabrics that can easily degrade or lose their elasticity if washed improperly.
Here’s our list of tips for washing gymnastics leotards and clothing that helps prolong their use.
Before you do anything, always check the care instructions on the clothing label. Manufacturers often provide specific guidelines to help you properly wash fragile fabrics and avoid damage.
Some garments may require hand washing, while others may be safe for machine washing. For example, lacrosse jerseys may tolerate more aggressive washing, while the delicate uniforms for gymnastics may not.
If there are any specific manufacturer care instructions for your leotards, it’s best to follow them closely.
Repeated Wear: For extra longevity, rotate between multiple leotards during training. Wearing the same one too often can speed up fabric wear and tear.
Gymnasts often work up a sweat, and their clothing can accumulate body oils, chalk, and other residues. For any stubborn stains, it’s wise to pre-treat the fabric before washing. Use a gentle stain remover or a small amount of mild detergent to gently rub the stain. Be careful not to scrub too hard, as this could damage the fabric fibers. For sweat stains, a mixture of baking soda and water can be effective for gently lifting the stain.
When washing gymnastics clothing, choose a mild detergent free of harsh chemicals, bleach, or fabric softeners. Harsh detergents can degrade the elastane or spandex fibers in fragile fabrics, causing them to lose elasticity and stretch. A gentle, hypoallergenic detergent will help to maintain the quality of the clothing and prevent the fabric from becoming too stiff.
While machine washing is convenient, hand washing is the gentlest way to clean your gymnastics leotard. Fill a basin with cool or lukewarm water, add a small amount of detergent, and gently agitate the water. Allow the leotards to soak for a few minutes, then carefully rub any areas that need extra attention. Rinse the damp garments thoroughly with cool water.
If you prefer to machine wash, place your leotard inside a mesh laundry bag to prevent it from getting stretched out or tangled with other clothes. This also reduces friction, which can cause fabric pilling or wear. Set the washing machine to a gentle or delicate cycle with cold water, as hot water can damage elastic materials and cause the garment to shrink or lose its shape.
Fabric softeners can coat the fibers of gymnastics clothing, making it less breathable and reducing its elasticity. For this reason, it’s best to skip these when washing leotards and activewear.
Once your leotard is clean, it’s essential to dry it properly to prevent damage. Never wring out or twist the fabric, as this can distort its shape. Instead, gently squeeze the excess water by pressing the fabric between two towels. To dry the leotard, lay it flat on a clean towel or hang it to air dry in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight. The high heat from a dryer can break down the fibers and cause the garment to shrink, so always air-dry your gymnastics clothing.
To maintain the integrity of your leotard or other gymnastics gear, store it properly when not in use. Keep it in a cool, dry place, and avoid folding it in a way that could leave creases or stress points. Hanging your leotards or activewear on padded hangers can help preserve their shape and elasticity.
Breathability: Store your leotard in a breathable section of your gym bag. Mesh compartments or separate pouches help prevent moisture buildup and odors after practice.
By following these steps, you can keep your gymnastics leotards and activewear in top condition for longer. Always take extra care when washing, drying, and storing these specialized garments to ensure they remain comfortable, flexible, and ready for performance.
At Sports Gear Swag, we offer custom gymnastics apparel you need to excel in this physically demanding discipline. We provide several templates to build on, and have options for fully custom leotards for adults and youth. Aside from gymnastic leotards, we also carry a huge selection of custom training gear, such as personalized leggings, socks, duffle bags and more! Start your design today and show up to your next gymnastics event in style!