1. Understand the Fabric Differences

Activewear for summer and winter is designed with different purposes in mind. Summer activewear is made from lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking fabrics like polyester, nylon, and mesh to keep you cool and dry. In contrast, winter activewear is usually thicker and made from materials like fleece, thermal fabrics, and merino wool for added insulation and warmth. Knowing these differences will help you maintain your gear appropriately.

2. Washing Summer Activewear

Because summer activewear is designed to handle sweat and moisture, it’s often made with synthetic fabrics that dry quickly. However, improper washing can damage the moisture-wicking properties.

• Use Cold Water: Wash your summer activewear in cold water to prevent fabric breakdown and fading.
• Avoid Fabric Softeners: Fabric softeners can clog the fibers and reduce their ability to wick away moisture.
• Air Dry: Always air dry your summer gear to prevent shrinkage and maintain the elasticity of the fabric.

3. Washing Winter Activewear

Winter activewear is often made from heavier fabrics like fleece or thermal blends that require more careful attention.

• Gentle Wash Cycle: Use a gentle or delicate cycle to preserve the structure of thermal layers and prevent pilling on fleece garments.
• Mild Detergent: Use a mild, non-abrasive detergent to keep the insulating properties intact. Harsh detergents can reduce the effectiveness of these materials.
• Avoid Heat Drying: High heat can damage thermal fabrics, so it's best to air dry or use a low-heat setting in the dryer.

4. Dealing with Odors

Both summer and winter activewear can develop odors due to trapped sweat. To combat this, vinegar can be used during the wash cycle to eliminate bacteria-causing odors.

• For Summer Gear: Add half a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle for an extra cleaning boost.
• For Winter Gear: Sprinkle baking soda on your thermal clothing before washing to neutralize odors.

5. Storing Activewear

Proper storage can significantly extend the life of your activewear, particularly for the next season.

• Summer Gear: Store in a cool, dry place to prevent mold and mildew from forming due to lingering moisture.
• Winter Gear: Fold and store in a dry, ventilated space to prevent moths and other fabric pests from damaging the material.

6. Handling Stains

Whether it’s sunscreen from summer workouts or mud from winter hikes, stains can affect the look and longevity of your activewear.

• For Summer Stains: Treat stains immediately with a mix of water and mild detergent. Gently scrub and then wash the item as usual.
• For Winter Stains: Mud or dirt stains should be soaked in cold water first before washing. Avoid hot water, as it can set the stain into the fabric.

7. Maintaining Water-Resistant Fabrics

Many winter activewear items, like jackets and pants, are designed to be water-resistant. To maintain their effectiveness, you’ll need to give them special attention.

• Use Specialized Detergent: Use a detergent specifically made for waterproof fabrics to avoid damaging the water-repellent coating.
• Reapply Water Repellent: After a few washes, consider applying a water-repellent spray to restore the fabric’s ability to repel moisture.

8. Handling Pilling on Winter Gear

Winter fabrics like fleece are prone to pilling, which occurs when fabric fibers break and form small balls on the surface.

• Use a Fabric Shaver: A fabric shaver can help remove pilling without damaging the garment.
• Wash Inside Out: Washing your fleece or thermal gear inside out can prevent excess friction that leads to pilling.

9. Preserving Elasticity

Both summer and winter activewear often come with stretchable fabrics to allow freedom of movement. Improper washing and drying can wear out the elastic fibers over time.

• Avoid High Heat: High temperatures can degrade the elasticity of your activewear. Always opt for air drying or low-heat drying to preserve stretchability.
• Wash Separately: Wash activewear separately from heavy items like towels or jeans to prevent overstretching during the wash cycle.

10. Avoid Over-Washing

Over-washing can cause wear and tear on both summer and winter activewear. If you’ve only worn the item for a short period or during a low-intensity workout, consider spot cleaning instead of a full wash.