Fashionistas Unveil the Reusable Gym Attire You Can Sport Two Times Prior to Laundering

Keeping up with laundry can be a daunting task for anyone who works out regularly. However, according to experts, there are certain items of clothing that you can actually re-wear without worrying about smelling bad. Workout clothes, which are often made from synthetic materials like polyester and nylon, tend to harbor more bacteria than other fabrics. On the other hand, workout clothes made of natural fibers like wool and cotton, such as some sports tops, base layers, and sweatpants, don’t trap as many bacteria and can be worn more than once.

Dr. Susan Massick, a dermatologist at Ohio State University, advises caution when it comes to sports bras and leggings. These items can absorb moisture and become a breeding ground for yeast. Dr. Massick explains that natural fibers don’t need to be washed as frequently, but most workout clothes these days are made from synthetic fibers that, despite being marketed as “breathable,” often trap moisture.

Workout clothes tend to be made from synthetic materials that trap sweat and cause more bacteria to form

Dr. Massick emphasizes that natural fibers help fight off harmful bacteria that mix with the sweat on our skin. When sweat combines with our body’s normal flora, bacteria multiply. Additionally, sweating opens up our pores, allowing bacteria to penetrate deeper into the skin. Therefore, it is essential to wash workout clothes regularly to maintain hygiene.

Dr Susan Massick, a dermatologist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, told DailyMail.com to limit wearing gym clothes to just twice before washing

Sweat, combined with heat and exercise, causes our glands to secrete perspiration and body odor. Our clothing absorbs this moisture and odor, which can worsen if the clothes remain damp and do not dry out properly. Even with “breathable” fabrics, perspiration will still occur underneath the clothes. Sports bras and leggings should be washed regularly due to the potential for yeast infections. Yeast thrives in moist areas, and when sweat-soaked clothing comes into contact with sensitive areas like the groin and under the breasts, yeast can multiply.

It is important to note that rewearing sweaty socks or sports bras should be avoided, as Dr. Massick recommends having multiple sets available to rotate and prevent the need for rewearing. The symptoms of a yeast infection vary depending on the location. For example, under skin folds, such as the breasts, symptoms may include rash, pimples, itching or burning, and the oozing of clear fluid. Genital yeast infections typically cause discharge, redness, itching, or burning.

While most normal flora bacteria are harmless, certain types that thrive in sweat can lead to serious health consequences. Staphylococcus bacteria, commonly found on the skin or in the nose, can cause staph infections, which, if they enter the bloodstream, can be fatal. Staph infections range from skin infections and food poisoning to bloodstream infections. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), a particularly dangerous type of staph infection, does not respond to many antibiotics.

Furthermore, individuals prone to inflammatory skin conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis may experience flare-ups from rewearing activewear, as sweat can clog pores. Dr. Massick advises those who sweat excessively or engage in intense workouts to wash their gym clothes daily to avoid skin irritation and rashes. However, if you choose to rewear your athleisure clothes, Dr. Massick suggests limiting it to no more than twice before washing. To keep clothes fresher for longer, apply deodorant before a workout, avoid excessive heat, and hang the clothes up to dry.

When in doubt about whether to rewear an item, Dr. Massick’s general rule of thumb is to wash it. It’s better to err on the side of caution and maintain good hygiene practices.