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Best Detergent For Athletic Clothes (2025 Updated)

If you’re looking for a detergent that can effectively clean your athletic clothes and make them smell fresh, you’re in the right place. As an athlete, you know the importance of having clean and fresh-smelling clothes before, during, and after your games or workouts. However, not all detergents are created equal, and choosing the right one can be a challenge.

When buying detergent for your athletic clothes, there are several factors you need to consider. Firstly, you need to check if the detergent is suitable for the fabric of your clothes. Some fabrics, such as spandex and nylon, require a gentle detergent that won't damage them. Secondly, you need to consider if the detergent is hypoallergenic and free from harsh chemicals, especially if you have sensitive skin. Finally, you need to check if the detergent is effective in removing sweat stains and odor.

Are you tired of using detergents that leave your clothes smelling funky after washing? Do you want to avoid having to replace your athletic clothes frequently due to damage caused by harsh detergents? If so, you need to keep reading. In this article, we'll explore the benefits of using a detergent that is specially formulated for athletic clothes. We'll also provide you with some tips to help you choose the right detergent for your needs.

10 Best Detergent For Athletic Clothes

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for removing sweat, dirt, and odors from sports clothing and gear.
2
This detergent is ideal for washing workout clothes, swimwear, yoga wear, athletic gear, and other types of activewear.
3
This product is ideal for eliminating odors in athletic clothes and gear.
4
This laundry detergent is ideal for washing workout clothes, swimwear, yoga wear, athletic gear, and more.
5
This product is ideal for washing athletic sportswear, activewear, sports and gym wear, and is tough on odors but gentle on workout clothes.
6
It is an ideal laundry detergent for active wear, workout clothes, and sports apparel that is biodegradable and color safe.
7
The product is ideal for female hunters looking for a high-quality waterproof bib in Optifade Timber pattern.
8
This product is ideal for adding motivational and inspirational quotes to laundry rooms, along with sports team decals and art decor.
9
This product is ideal for preparing skin before getting a tattoo or piercing.
10
Defense Soap Barrier Foam helps protect against dandruff, body odor, and acne using pharmaceutical-grade aloe vera, lanolin, and jojoba foam.
Ideal for removing sweat, dirt, and odors from sports clothing and gear.
This detergent is ideal for washing workout clothes, swimwear, yoga wear, athletic gear, and other types of activewear.
This product is ideal for eliminating odors in athletic clothes and gear.
This laundry detergent is ideal for washing workout clothes, swimwear, yoga wear, athletic gear, and more.
This product is ideal for washing athletic sportswear, activewear, sports and gym wear, and is tough on odors but gentle on workout clothes.
It is an ideal laundry detergent for active wear, workout clothes, and sports apparel that is biodegradable and color safe.
The product is ideal for female hunters looking for a high-quality waterproof bib in Optifade Timber pattern.
This product is ideal for adding motivational and inspirational quotes to laundry rooms, along with sports team decals and art decor.
This product is ideal for preparing skin before getting a tattoo or piercing.
Defense Soap Barrier Foam helps protect against dandruff, body odor, and acne using pharmaceutical-grade aloe vera, lanolin, and jojoba foam.

1. Sport Wash Laundry Detergent 64 Fl Oz

The Sport-Wash Residue-Free Laundry Detergent is an excellent choice for those who want their clothes to perform at their best. This detergent rinses completely, leaving nothing behind that could reduce the fabric's performance. It is specially designed to remove residue from other detergents, restoring lost features such as water repellency, wicking of perspiration, and low friction. The detergent comes in a 64 fl oz bottle and provides up to 64 wash loads. It is a great gift idea for anyone who loves outdoor activities or sports.

The Sport-Wash Residue-Free Laundry Detergent is easy to use. Simply add the recommended amount to your washing machine and let it do its job. It is safe to use on all fabrics, including those that require delicate care. The detergent is also eco-friendly and doesn't contain any harmful chemicals that could harm the environment.

If you want your clothes to look and perform their best, then the Sport-Wash Residue-Free Laundry Detergent is the perfect choice for you. It is a high-quality detergent that is designed to clean your clothes thoroughly and remove any residue that could affect their performance. Give it a try and see the difference for yourself!

Pros

  • Rinses completely, leaving nothing behind to reduce fabric performance
  • Removes residue from other detergents, restoring lost features like water repellency, wicking of perspiration, and low friction
  • Provides up to 64 wash loads
  • Safe to use on all fabrics, including those that require delicate care
  • Eco-friendly and doesn't contain any harmful chemicals

2. Stretch Clean: Activewear Detergent

Ensure your workout clothes, activewear, swimwear, yoga wear, and athletic gear remain in their best shape with Active & Tough: Stretch laundry detergent. This specially designed detergent removes sweat, body oils, odor, soil, and chlorine from your clothes while retaining their needed stretch and elasticity. It is highly effective and gentle on your clothes all at the same time.

The Forever New Stretch fabric wash detergent is formulated with a base of gentle ingredients that provide a deep and thorough clean while extending the life of your garments. It is the perfect solution to keep your activewear and sports gear looking and feeling new for longer.

Say goodbye to soap residue and damage to the thread fibers with this concentrated blend. It removes stains and soils while rinsing completely free from fabric.

Forever New products are bleach-free, brightener-free, dye-free, phosphate-free, lanolin-free, and petroleum-free. Moreover, they are certified as not being tested on any animals. This makes it an eco-friendly and ethical choice for anyone looking for a sustainable laundry detergent.

Stretch uses a blend of gentle ingredients that prevent irritation or skin reaction. It is safe and gentle to use, ensuring your skin remains healthy and free from allergies or other adverse reactions.

Pros

  • Removes sweat, body oils, odor, soil, and chlorine from your clothes while retaining their needed stretch and elasticity
  • Gentle ingredients create a highly effective formula that deep cleans and extends the life of your garments
  • Rinses completely free from fabric, leaving no soap residue or damage to the thread fibers
  • Bleach-free, brightener-free, dye-free, phosphate-free, lanolin-free, and petroleum-free
  • Certified as not being tested on any animals
  • Safe and gentle to use, preventing irritation or skin reaction

3. Sport Odor Eliminator: 2toms Stinkfree Detergent

The 2Toms StinkFree Detergent is an excellent solution for eliminating odor and stains in high-performance athletic apparel and gear. It goes beyond masking the odor and instead treats the problem using a proprietary residue lifter and odor neutralizer. This detergent is engineered to penetrate deep into the synthetic, technical fabrics, and eliminate the sweat and dirt that normal detergents can't handle. As a result, you can experience fresh, clean, and odor-free apparel after every wash.

This detergent is safe to use on all types of fabrics, making it a perfect choice for cleaning sweat and odors from leggings, sports bras, uniforms, yoga pants, and other high-performing athletic clothing. The proprietary residue lifters make cleaning gear and bags easy, even without the need for a washing machine. What's more, the detergent is unscented, with no perfumes included, making it ideal for people with sensitive skin.

If you're looking for a reliable and efficient way to eliminate odor and stains from your athletic apparel and gear, 2Toms StinkFree Detergent is the perfect solution. The detergent is made in the USA, ensuring high-quality standards and top-notch performance.

Pros

  • Eliminates odor and stains in high-performance athletic apparel and gear
  • Treats the problem instead of masking it using a proprietary residue lifter and odor neutralizer
  • Safe to use on all types of fabrics
  • Proprietary residue lifters make cleaning gear and bags easy, even without the need for a washing machine
  • Unscented with no perfumes included, making it ideal for people with sensitive skin
  • Made in the USA, ensuring high-quality standards and top-notch performance

4. Stretchy Clean: Active Wear Laundry Detergent

Keep your activewear, workout clothes, swimwear, yoga wear, and athletic gear fresh and clean with Active & Tough: Stretch laundry detergent. This specially designed formula removes sweat, body oils, odor, soil, and chlorine while retaining the needed stretch and elasticity of your clothes. The concentrated blend deep cleans and removes stains and soils, leaving no soap residue or damage to the thread fibers.

Forever New Stretch fabric wash detergent is made with gentle ingredients that effectively clean and extend the life of your garments. It has no bleach, brighteners, dyes, phosphates, lanolin, or petroleum ingredients, making it safe and friendly for the environment. The product is also certified not to be tested on any animals, making it a cruelty-free choice.

Stretch is gentle and safe for your skin, featuring a blend of gentle ingredients that prevent irritation or skin reaction. It is a highly effective formula that is gentle on your clothes and easy on your skin.

Pros

  • Effectively removes sweat, body oils, odor, soil, and chlorine from activewear and workout clothes
  • Retains the needed stretch and elasticity of clothes
  • Deep cleans and removes stains and soils without leaving soap residue or damaging thread fibers
  • Made with gentle ingredients that extend the life of your garments
  • Environmentally friendly with no bleach, brighteners, dyes, phosphates, lanolin, or petroleum ingredients
  • Certified as not tested on any animals
  • Gentle and safe for your skin with a blend of gentle ingredients that prevent irritation or skin reaction

5. Sportswear Savior – Re:claim Laundry Detergent

Say goodbye to bad odors with Re:Claim Sports Detergent! This powerful detergent is specially formulated to eliminate the source of the problem and wash out all dirt and foul smells from your clothes with ease. Unlike other detergents that simply mask odors with artificial 'fresh scents', Re:Claim leaves your laundry naturally clean and fresh-smelling.

Designed for athletic and active wear, as well as all elastic fabrics, this detergent protects and lengthens the life of tights and stretchy clothing. It is also safe to use on reflective materials.

Whether you prefer machine or hand washing, Re:Claim Sports Detergent works in any temperature, from zero degrees to 40-60 degrees. It removes even the toughest stains and odors, leaving your clothes fresh and clean after just one wash.

At Re:Claim, they care about you and the environment. That's why their sports detergent is gentle on sensitive skin, does not contain harmful ingredients, is cruelty-free, heavy-duty, and an excellent odor remover.

One bottle of Re:Claim Sports Detergent is equivalent to 10 loads of laundry, making it highly efficient and cost-effective. Get great results on every wash and enjoy odor-free workout clothes with ease.

Pros

  • Eliminates bad odors and washes out all dirt and foul smells with ease
  • Protects and lengthens the life of tights and stretchy clothing
  • Safe to use on reflective materials
  • Works in any temperature, from zero degrees to 40-60 degrees
  • Gentle on sensitive skin and does not contain harmful ingredients
  • Cruelty-free and heavy-duty
  • Highly efficient and cost-effective

6. Nonaste Active Wear Laundry Detergent – Power Clean!

Nonaste has created a sports detergent that is perfect for high-performance athletes who want their clothes to be as high-performing as they are. This best-in-class detergent is formulated to remove odors and residues caused by sweat, leaving your workout clothes smelling fresh and clean. It is perfect for running kits, biking jerseys, and work clothes. Nonaste's active wear detergent is specially formulated to remove odors and residues that regular laundry detergents cannot.

Nonaste's sports laundry detergent uses advanced technology that combines enzymes and environmentally-safe surfactants to remove odors. Unlike traditional laundry detergents, it doesn't simply perfume the odor for a short time, but actually removes the oil and stink that builds up in synthetic materials. With this 32-ounce pack of 2, you can rest assured that your athletic laundry is handled with ease.

Nonaste's activewear detergent is specifically designed to help increase the lifespan of your expensive workout apparel. It leaves behind no filmy residue and restores the fabric's moisture-wicking capabilities. You can get your workout clothes, gym bags, hats, headbands, and sweatbands back in the gym rotation with Nonaste's sport wash.

Using Nonaste's activewear detergent is simple. For slightly soiled workout clothes, use one capful of the included dosing cup. For heavily soiled workout clothes, use two capfuls. Nonaste activewear laundry detergent can also be used by hand. Simply soak your gear in warm water with the desired amount for 20 minutes before rinsing with clean water.

Nonaste's activewear detergent for workout clothes is made with plant-based surfactants, is phosphate-free, biodegradable, and uses no animal testing, making it safe for you, your family, and the planet. It is completely color safe, gentle on clothes, and strong on odors, making it perfect for anyone who wants their workout clothes to be as fresh and clean as they are.

Pros

  • Nonaste's sports laundry detergent is specially formulated to remove odors and residues that regular laundry detergents cannot
  • The advanced technology that combines enzymes and environmentally-safe surfactants ensures that your workout clothes are left smelling fresh and clean
  • Nonaste's activewear detergent is specifically designed to help increase the lifespan of your expensive workout apparel
  • The detergent is made with plant-based surfactants, is phosphate-free, biodegradable, and uses no animal testing, making it safe for you, your family, and the planet
  • It is completely color safe, gentle on clothes, and strong on odors, making it perfect for anyone who wants their workout clothes to be as fresh and clean as they are

Cons

  • – No known cons

7. Sitka Women's Hudson Waterproof Hunting Bib, Optifade Timber, Medium

The hunting bib features full-length side zippers that provide easy layering, ventilation, and drop-seat functionality. It makes it easy to put on and remove the bib, making it perfect for field use. The bellowed cargo-style pockets provide ample storage space for shells and other accessories. The knee overlays of the bib are completely puncture-resistant, making it durable and long-lasting. The adjustable no-buckle suspenders allow for easy and efficient adjustments while in the field. The bib is designed with GORE OPTIFADE Concealment Waterfowl Marsh, which is perfect for layout and blind hunting in the marsh, standing crops, and cut stubble fields. This feature helps hunters blend in with the environment, making it easier to approach their prey without being detected.

Pros

  • Full-length side zippers provide easy layering, ventilation, and drop-seat functionality
  • Bellowed cargo-style pockets provide ample storage space for shells and other accessories
  • Knee overlays are completely puncture-resistant, making the bib durable and long-lasting
  • Adjustable no-buckle suspenders allow for easy and efficient adjustments while in the field
  • GORE OPTIFADE Concealment Waterfowl Marsh helps hunters blend in with the environment

8. Same-Day Laundry Room Motivation Wall Decal

Add a touch of personality to your space with this premium quality vinyl wall decal created and manufactured by Imposing Design. Measuring 23" W x 14" H, this decal is the perfect size for any wall. It is easy to install and remove, making it a hassle-free way to decorate. Plus, it is proudly made in America and shipped from the USA. You can be sure that you are receiving a high-quality product that will last for years to come. Please note that all items are copyrighted, ensuring that you are receiving a unique and original design.

Pros

  • Premium quality vinyl
  • Easy to install and remove
  • Proudly made in America
  • Unique and original design
  • Fast and free shipping

9. Dragon Art 16.9oz Green Soap Prep Wash With 8oz Squeeze Bottle For Tattoos And Piercings

The Ultra-Concentrated Green Soap with an 8oz Squeeze Bottle is a must-have for any professional tattoo artist or piercer. The set includes 16.9oz of green soap that is highly effective in cleaning equipment and instruments. It is specially formulated to remove dried blood and protein soils from the skin and scalp without causing any harm. The green soap comes in an easy-to-use squeeze bottle that makes dispensing hassle-free.

This green soap is trusted by professional tattoo artists and piercers all over the world due to its effectiveness in cleaning and disinfecting skin and equipment. It is a powerful detergent and cleaner that can easily remove any stubborn stains from the skin and scalp. The green soap is also gentle enough to be used on sensitive skin without causing any irritation or discomfort. It is an essential item for maintaining hygiene in any tattoo or piercing studio.

Pros

  • Highly effective in removing dried blood and protein soils from skin and scalp
  • Can be used to clean equipment and instruments
  • Trusted by professional tattoo artists and piercers worldwide
  • Easy-to-use squeeze bottle for hassle-free dispensing
  • Gentle enough to be used on sensitive skin

10. Ultimate Mma Defense Foam – Pack Of 2

Protect and nourish your skin with this high-quality wash that effectively removes dirt, grime, gym crud, sweat, smog, allergens, grunge, and built-up oils. The wash provides a barrier between you and mat grime, while conditioning and promoting healthier skin with naturally-derived essential oils and minerals. Clinically-proven natural aloe vera, lanolin, and jojoba moisturize and enrich your skin while providing maximum protection. It is proven in the world of contact sports, making it an ideal choice for athletes and active individuals.

The wash has superior rinsing action that restores the skin's natural barrier and helps control the production of sebum and dead skin cells. It also helps maintain the skin's oil balance during the cleansing process, reduces trans-epidermal water loss, and strengthens the skin's barrier function. Give your skin the care it deserves with this top-quality wash that leaves your skin feeling clean, healthy, and refreshed.

Pros

  • Effectively removes dirt, grime, gym crud, sweat, smog, allergens, grunge, and built-up oils
  • Provides a barrier between you and mat grime
  • Conditions and promotes healthier skin with naturally-derived essential oils and minerals
  • Clinically-proven natural aloe vera, lanolin, and jojoba moisturize and enrich skin while providing maximum protection
  • Proven in the world of contact sports
  • Superior rinsing action restores the skin's natural barrier and helps control the production of sebum and dead skin cells
  • Helps maintain the skin's oil balance during the cleansing process
  • Reduces trans-epidermal water loss and strengthens the skin's barrier function

Best Detergent For Athletic Clothes FAQs

Are there any eco-friendly options for washing my workout clothes?

Yes, there are eco-friendly options for washing workout clothes. One of the best options is to use a laundry detergent that is made from natural ingredients and is free from harsh chemicals. Look for products that are biodegradable, phosphate-free, and chlorine-free. These types of detergents are not only better for the environment, but they are also gentler on your clothes and your skin.

Another eco-friendly option is to wash your workout clothes in cold water. Hot water uses more energy and can also cause your clothes to shrink or fade. Plus, cold water is just as effective at cleaning your clothes as hot water.

You can also consider using a washing machine that is designed to be energy-efficient. These machines use less water and less electricity than traditional machines, which can help to reduce your carbon footprint.

Finally, you can hang your workout clothes to dry instead of using a dryer. This not only saves energy, but it can also help to extend the life of your clothes. Just make sure to hang them in a well-ventilated area to prevent mildew and odors.

Can I use regular detergent for washing my workout clothes, or do I need a specialized product?

It is recommended to use a specialized detergent for washing workout clothes. Regular detergents may not effectively remove sweat, bacteria, and odor from these clothes. Workout clothes are made of special fabrics that are designed to absorb sweat and moisture, which means they require a different kind of cleaning. Using a regular detergent may cause damage to the fabric and reduce the lifespan of your clothes. Specialized detergents for workout clothes are designed to remove sweat, bacteria, and odor from the fabric without damaging it. They are also designed to preserve the elasticity and moisture-wicking properties of the fabric. So, if you want to keep your workout clothes clean and in good condition, it is recommended to invest in a specialized detergent for them.

How do I remove sweat and odor from my sports gear?

Sweat and odor can be a common problem with sports gear, especially if it's not washed properly. The key to removing sweat and odor from sports gear is to wash it as soon as possible after use. It's best to wash your sports gear separately from your regular laundry, using a sports-specific detergent that is designed to remove sweat and odor.

For particularly stubborn stains and odors, you can soak your sports gear in a mixture of warm water and white vinegar before washing. This can help to break down any bacteria or sweat that has built up on the fabric.

It's also important to properly dry your sports gear after washing. Avoid using a dryer, as high heat can damage the fabric and cause shrinkage. Instead, hang your sports gear up to air dry in a well-ventilated area.

Finally, it's important to regularly replace your sports gear if it's showing signs of wear and tear. This can help to prevent the buildup of sweat and odor, and ensure that you're always performing at your best.

What are the best detergents for washing athletic clothes?

When it comes to washing athletic clothes, it's important to choose a detergent that is tough on sweat and odors but gentle on the fabric. Some of the best detergents for washing athletic clothes are those that are specifically designed for this purpose. These detergents are formulated to remove sweat and bacteria from the fabric without damaging it.

One such detergent is WIN Sports Detergent, which is known for its ability to remove tough stains and odors from athletic clothes. Another popular detergent is Tide Sport, which is designed to clean and protect athletic wear from sweat and odors.

It's also important to consider the type of fabric when choosing a detergent. For example, if you have clothes made from synthetic materials such as polyester or nylon, you may want to choose a detergent that is gentle on these fabrics. Some detergents that are specifically designed for athletic wear are also formulated to be gentle on synthetic fabrics.

Overall, the best detergents for washing athletic clothes are those that are tough on sweat and odors but gentle on the fabric. It's important to read the labels and choose a detergent that is specifically designed for sports apparel.

What ingredients should I look for in a detergent for athletic clothes?

When it comes to washing athletic clothes, it's important to choose a detergent that can effectively remove sweat, odor, and stains without damaging the fabric. Here are some key ingredients to look for when selecting a detergent for your workout gear:

1. Enzymes: Look for detergents that contain enzymes, as they are effective at breaking down sweat and protein-based stains. Protease enzymes can help break down sweat and protein stains, while amylase enzymes can help break down carbohydrate-based stains.

2. Surfactants: These are the ingredients that help lift dirt and stains from the fabric. Look for detergents that contain surfactants such as sodium lauryl sulfate or sodium laureth sulfate.

3. Oxygen-based bleach: This type of bleach is gentler than chlorine bleach and can help remove tough stains without damaging the fabric. Look for detergents that contain ingredients such as sodium percarbonate or hydrogen peroxide.

4. Fragrance: While not essential, a pleasant fragrance can help mask any lingering odors on your workout clothes. Look for detergents that contain natural fragrances such as essential oils.

By choosing a detergent that contains these key ingredients, you can keep your athletic clothes looking and smelling fresh for longer.

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