Meta description: Learn how to wash and care for yoga wear, Pilates outfits and everyday activewear so your favourite pieces keep their shape, colour and soft feel.
Good activewear is made to move with you, but thoughtful care helps it stay comfortable and polished for longer. Whether you wear yoga pants for a morning class, a sports bra for Pilates, or a soft jacket for the walk home, a few simple habits can protect the fabric and fit.
How often should you wash yoga wear?
Wash yoga wear after each sweaty session, especially close-fitting sports bras, leggings and tops. For a light walk or a short stretch at home, airing the garment soon after wearing can help until the next wash. Avoid leaving damp activewear in a gym bag, as moisture and heat can affect freshness and fabric feel.
The best way to wash activewear
1. Check the care label first
Care labels are the most reliable guide for each garment. Before washing a new piece, check the recommended temperature, drying method and any notes about trims or fastenings. Our NULS fabric guide explains the soft, flexible feel used across selected Lepeins pieces.
2. Use a cool, gentle wash
Turn activewear inside out and choose a cool, gentle cycle with similar colours. Cold or cool water is a practical choice for everyday yoga wear because it is less demanding on colour, stretch and elastic fibres than hot water. Close zips and hooks before washing so they do not catch on softer garments.
3. Choose a mild detergent
Use a modest amount of mild detergent. Too much detergent can remain in technical or smooth fabrics, leaving them feeling coated. Avoid bleach and fabric softener unless the care label specifically allows them. Fabric softener can reduce the clean, breathable feel of some performance materials.
How to dry yoga pants and Pilates outfits
Gently reshape garments after washing and line dry them in a shaded, well-ventilated place. High heat from a tumble dryer can be harder on elastic waistbands, stretch panels and soft fabric surfaces. Keep activewear away from direct, intense sun when possible, particularly for darker or richly coloured pieces.
Do not wring leggings, sports bras or fitted tops aggressively. Press out excess water, then lay the garment over a clean towel or hang it from a stable seam. This helps reduce stretching around the waistband and shoulders.
Care tips by activewear category
Sports bras and fitted tops
Fasten adjustable straps and wash removable pads separately if the care label recommends it. Place delicate bras in a laundry bag when washing with other items. Browse sports bras when you need a low-impact layer for yoga, Pilates or daily movement.
Yoga pants and leggings
Turn leggings and yoga pants inside out to reduce surface friction. Keep them away from rough towels, Velcro and garments with sharp hardware. For a smooth, close fit, compare the available shapes in yoga pants and bottoms and leggings.
Skorts and lightweight layers
Empty pockets before washing and check the inside of built-in shorts for items or lint. Hang skorts by the waistband only when the fabric is fully supported; otherwise, lay them flat while damp. Explore skorts and active skirts for movement-friendly coverage with an easy everyday silhouette.
How to remove common marks
Treat small marks as soon as practical with cool water and a little mild detergent. Dab rather than scrub, and avoid strong stain removers until you have checked the care label. For sunscreen, makeup or oil-based marks, test any cleaning method on an inconspicuous area first. Never use high heat to set or dry a mark before it has been treated.
Build a lower-maintenance activewear wardrobe
A simple rotation makes care easier. Keep enough yoga tops, bottoms and light layers for your weekly routine, and allow each piece to dry fully before storing it. Fold smooth fabrics without compressing them under heavy items. Store clean, dry activewear away from damp bathrooms and direct sunlight.
When you are refreshing your rotation, the new arrivals collection is a useful place to find pieces designed to work across studio practice, walking and everyday plans. For the best fit before ordering, check the Size Guide.
Activewear care FAQ
Can I wash yoga clothes with ordinary laundry?
Yes, when colours and care instructions are compatible. Separate activewear from rough fabrics, zips and Velcro where possible, and use a cool gentle cycle.
Can I put leggings in the dryer?
Follow the care label. If line drying is allowed, it is usually the gentler everyday option for stretch garments and elastic waistbands.
Why does activewear lose its soft feel?
Common causes include too much detergent, fabric softener, high heat, rough laundry loads and leaving damp clothing in a bag. A cool wash and careful drying can help preserve the original feel.
How should I store activewear between workouts?
Wash or air the garment promptly, let it dry completely, then fold it in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing damp pieces in drawers or gym bags.
With a cool wash, gentle detergent and low-heat drying habits, your favourite Lepeins pieces can remain comfortable and ready for the next class, walk or everyday plan.