Cleaning high-performance activewear is challenging because the tightly-woven fibers tend to hold on to odor. Fortunately, laundry detergents specifically made for activewear target odor-causing particles and eliminate them from the close-knit fibers. We researched the best laundry detergents for workout clothes and evaluated their effectiveness, odor elimination, price, and ease of use. Our top pick, Rockin Green Activewear Laundry Detergent, uses enzymes to get odors out, preventing them from returning. Here are the best laundry detergents for workout clothes. The Rockin Green powder detergent is a bit expensive, which is why many people save it for their smelliest laundry or fabrics that tend to hold onto odors. Workout clothes, car seats, and tightly woven towels can all benefit from this detergent. Since it’s a concentrated formula, we think the price is justified. It’s important to note that this detergent is also safe for colors. You can use it as a presoak or as a regular detergent in any washing machine. On top of that, Rockin Green is safe for those with sensitive skin, and it uses plant-based ingredients to bust odors instead of harsh chemicals. It’s free of sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), parabens, and artificial fragrances, so it’s safe for use on young kids’ clothing as well as your sweatiest cycling shorts. Price at time of publish: $32 This detergent doesn’t include harsh perfumes, dyes, or phosphates and is recommended by dermatologists for those with sensitivities. The price is also a big plus: “Retailing at around $15 for the concentrated formula, it’s about 14 cents per load, which is fairly low compared to other detergents marketed as safe for sensitive skin,” our tester noted. If you wash a lot of workout clothes, affordability is a major perk. Price at time of publish: $17 You will pay for the convenience as these are more expensive than their liquid counterparts. Given that they include four functions and only need to be tossed into the washer drum, we think they are worth the extra cost. They also work in cold water, which can save you money on electricity costs if you do a lot of laundry. Price at time of publish: $20 You can use it as a detergent or a presoak treatment. If using as a presoak, let your clothes soak in a mixture of powder and water right in your washer drum for up to an hour and then wash like normal. This does use the powder faster, however, and it is already quite pricey. You don’t need to use much, but initially, you might need to run your workout clothes through multiple washes to eliminate any built-up gunk. Price at time of publish: $34 OxiClean can be harsh and not safe for all fabrics. It’s best to test it on some of your older or well-worn items first. If you use performance fabric athletic gear, this may cause it to wear faster. It is safe for all washing machines, even high-efficiency machines. Price at time of publish: $12 The downside of this detergent is that it is quite expensive for everyday use. Many people opt to use it for their workout clothing only. It also works on outdoor apparel that can get stinky and sweaty, such as hiking and climbing gear. Price at time of publish: $14 You will need to use it with warm or hot water to make sure that the formula dissolves. If you wash your clothes in cold water, they may come out with residue on them. Molly’s Suds includes a scoop to make measuring each recommended amount easy. Note that you may need to use extra for large, dirty, or extra-smelly loads. Price at time of publish: $15 You can also use OxiClean Versatile Stain Remover to keep things bright, clean, and fresh around your home. It is great to keep your gym shoes clean and bright, as well. The same formula is available in a fragrance-free as well as a baby-safe option that is also good for those with sensitivities. It is chlorine-free and color-safe, but may cause some color bleeding on brand-new clothing. Price at time of publish: $15
Ingredients and Certifications
Many laundry detergents use oxygen-based cleaners and enzymes to target particles that cause odors. Performance fabrics are often tightly woven and so they hold onto these particles even more so than other fabrics. Look for a detergent that gets into the fibers to get rid of grime, dirt, sweat, and oil. In addition, some detergents have certifications, such as the EPA Safer Choice certification, that mark the product as environmentally friendly and safe for your health. Plant-based ingredients and all-natural fragrances often fall into this category. EWG ratings also show the potential hazards of individual ingredients, and they are transparent about the amount of data collected. If you have sensitivities, look for a Free & Clear detergent that does not include synthetic fragrances or dyes.
Scent
Some detergents have added scents to make your clothing smell fresher. Look for detergents that get rid of the odor-causing particles instead of just covering them up with heavy scents. Some scented detergents are made to add a pleasant smell to your clothing rather than target the odor source.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was researched and written by Katie Begley, a freelance writer specializing in home and family products. Katie has been writing for The Spruce since 2019. A Navy veteran, Katie is familiar with the need for laundry detergent that can stand up to dirty, sweaty workout clothes. To compile this list, she looked for detergents and boosters that were effective and safe for performance fabrics. She also talked to personal trainer Trevor McKenzie for insight on how to properly care for fitness attire.
