Deep Clean Your Yoga Clothes: The Ultimate Guide to Removing Sweat and Grime

Updated at: 12/05/2025

Your yoga mat isn't the only thing that needs a deep clean after a sweaty session. Those beloved yoga clothes, the comfortable companions through countless sun salutations and challenging inversions, are harboring a surprising amount of sweat, dirt, and bacteria. Ignoring regular, thorough cleaning not only impacts the longevity of your favorite leggings and tops but can also contribute to skin irritation and unpleasant odors. We often focus on the visible grime, but the invisible build-up of sweat and oil can significantly affect both the fabric and your hygiene.

Beyond a quick rinse, your yoga wear requires a more intensive approach to ensure it stays fresh, clean, and performs optimally. From pre-treating stubborn stains to understanding the best washing techniques for different fabrics, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and steps to achieve a truly deep clean. Ready to learn the ultimate secrets to revitalizing your yoga wardrobe? Let's dive into the step-by-step process below.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Washing Machine
  • Laundry Pod (Tide Pod recommended)
  • Yoga Clothes
  • Yoga Towels
  • Yoga Towel
Safety Guidelines
  • Always check the care label before washing. Different fabrics require different washing methods and temperatures to prevent damage.
  • Avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach, as they can weaken the fabric and fade the colors of your yoga clothes.
  • Air-drying is generally preferred to prevent shrinkage and prolong the life of your yoga clothing. If using a dryer, use a low heat setting.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Washing Machine

    • Place a laundry pod (Tide pod recommended) into the washing machine drum.
    • Add your yoga clothes and towels to the washing machine.
    • Close the washing machine door.
    Close the washing machine door.Close the washing machine door.Close the washing machine door.
    Prepare the Washing Machine

  2. Select Wash Cycle Settings

    • Select the washing cycle. For heavily soiled items, use a normal cycle with hot water.
    • If desired, select sanitize mode for extra cleaning power. This adds extra heat and a rinse cycle.
    If desired, select sanitize mode for extra cleaning power. This adds extra heat and a rinse cycle.If desired, select sanitize mode for extra cleaning power. This adds extra heat and a rinse cycle.
    Select Wash Cycle Settings

  3. Start the Wash

    • Start the washing machine.
    Start the washing machine.
    Start the Wash

Read more: DIY Yoga Mat & Workout Gear Cleaning Hacks: The Ultimate Guide

Tips

  • Always check the care instructions on the label of your yoga clothes before washing.
  • Do not use fabric softener when washing yoga clothes or towels as this can create a breeding ground for bacteria.
  • For newer or less soiled items, consider using a delicate cycle.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Washing yoga clothes with other garments

Reason: Yoga clothes often contain fabrics that attract and retain odors, and washing them with other clothes can transfer these odors to your other garments.
Solution: Wash yoga clothes separately to prevent odor transfer and maintain the cleanliness of other clothing.

2. Using too much detergent or fabric softener

Reason: Excess detergent can leave residue on the fabric, trapping sweat and dirt, leading to a build-up of odors and potentially irritating your skin. Fabric softener can reduce the absorbency of the fabric, causing it to retain sweat.
Solution: Use a small amount of detergent specifically designed for athletic wear and avoid using fabric softener.

FAQs

Can I put my yoga clothes in the dryer?
Generally, it's best to air dry your yoga clothes, especially performance fabrics like lycra or spandex. High heat from a dryer can damage the fabric's elasticity and fibers, leading to premature wear and tear. Lay them flat or hang them on a clothesline to dry.