How to Wash Compression Shirts
There’s a good chance you’re going to wear compression shirts for one of these reasons:
You’re looking for a sweat-wicking shirt to keep you dry in the Summer.
You’re looking to stay warm in the Winter with a long sleeve compression shirt.
Maybe you need one to wear as part of a workplace protocol.
You need a baselayer to put on underneath your pads, gear, and jersey.
You just need a good piece of clothing to work out in today.
However your compression shirts fit into your day-to-day, the last thing you need is to wear them a few times, see that they’ve got ruined, and have to throw them out. Whenever you purchase a piece of compression clothing, the wash and care instructions might differ from your casual cotton shirt. Compression gear is made to hug your muscles, stretch in all the right spots so you can still move comfortably, and help you feel yourself in space. You’ll find that plenty of compression shirts—and compression clothing in general—is made with materials like elastane. It’s what gives them that stretch. A shirt made with elastane can easily lose its benefits by an improper wash. By not following guidance and directions on cleaning compression shirts, the odors your shirt’s supposed to fend off might linger, as well as losing its elasticity and tight fit.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Wash Compression Shirts & Compression Gear
By following the step-by-step actions below, you’re giving your compression shirts a chance to last longer and perform just as well as they do now in the future.
1. Check the Tag: Look for any care instructions printed inside the shirt. While most compression gear follows standard guidelines, some may have unique washing requirements.
2. Turn the Shirt Inside Out: This helps protect the outer layer, and any logos or prints from wear and tear during the wash.
3. Use Cold Water: Set your washing machine to a cold water. Hot water can damage the stretch fibers and cause the shirt to lose its compression. Wash with like colors. Avoid chlorine bleach or fabric softeners.
4. Select a Gentle Cycle: Choose the “delicate” or “gentle” cycle to minimize agitation, which can break down the fabric over time.
5. Use a Mild Detergent: Avoid harsh detergents, chlorine, fabric softeners, bleach, or dryer sheets. These can clog the fabric and reduce its sweat-wicking properties.
6. Wash with Similar Fabrics: Wash compression shirts with other performance gear or lightweight items. Avoid mixing with jeans, towels, or anything with zippers or Velcro. Consider using a mesh laundry bag to protect it from damage if washing with other items.
7. Dry on Low, or Air Dry: Dry your shirt on low heat or air dry by laying the shirt flat or hanging it up.
8. Avoid Ironing or Dry Cleaning: Compression fabric doesn’t handle heat well. There’s no need to iron or dry clean—just let it air dry naturally or dry on a low heat setting.
Pro Tips
For persistent odors, soak the shirt with some gentle detergent and cold water for 15-30 minutes. Use chlorine-free bleach only when needed.
Wash after every wear, especially after workouts or activities that cause sweating.
Don't use too much detergent—this can leave a residue that traps odors.
Store your compression shirt in a cool, dry place when not being used. Avoid creasing them or wringing them as this can damage fibers.
Invest in high-quality compression shirts. Having multiple pairs of compression shirts will let you rotate them, reducing wear and tear, and will help prolong their lifespan.
Taking care of your gear properly saves money in the long run, sure, but it also allows you to get comfortable over a period of time with it, too. Everyone has their favorite pair of cleats, shoes, gym shorts, sports bra, workout shirt—you get the point. You develop favorites because they’ve proven to be reliable for you over time. How do they do that? By being taken care of properly. Treat your compression shirts the same so you’re able to perform at your best.