When it comes to making your athletic gear last a long time, proper maintenance, as well as aftercare, is very important. Workout gear is not only subject to lots of wear and tear but also sweat and grime as well. While it is important to maintain the integrity of your athletic gear so that it can function properly, you also want to keep it hygienic as well. Here are some tips that can help you keep your athletic equipment in tip-top shape.
Washing Machine
Knowing how to properly clean your athletic gear is important if you want it to last. If your gym has a steam cleaning machine for removing odor, be sure to use it. Home remedies such as baking soda and white vinegar are great for removing odors. If one wash doesn't suffice, you can try spraying the gear down first with the water and vinegar mixture, let it soak for about half an hour and then put it into the washing machine. If that doesn’t work, there are also special laundry detergents like Win that you can buy that are specifically designed to help get such odors out of your gear.
Proper Storage
Properly storing your gear will not only help to maintain its integrity but can also make it easy to get to it when you need it. Since some pieces of athletic gear such as gloves or sweatbands may be smaller than others, you should have a place for each item. According to LITZ, keeping your gear organized can reduce stress and help you find what you need. How you store your athletic gear is just as important as where since you want to prevent your gear from becoming rancid. For instance, sweatbands and certain items must be stored in certain conditions. Anything metal could be prone to rusting if it gets wet or exposed to humidity. These items can become very wet after use so they must be stored in a way that allows them to dry out completely.
Proper Maintenance
Properly maintaining your gear is an important step when it comes to extending the life of your equipment. Address any rips or breaks in your gear as soon as you notice them so that it is in optimal shape and ready for the next use. For most absorbent dance or athletic gear, you should let it air out thoroughly before storing it away. When using any other non-porous workout gear, such as a floor mat or yoga mat, giving it a thorough wipe down after use will help keep it fresh.
Whether you work out at home or go to a gym, it’s important to take care of your gear. By adhering to these few tips, your gear can be clean and performance-ready. Letting your gear air out will prevent extra-long washes, and fixing small issues can help your gear last. Exercising just a little care after each use can make all the difference.