· By WLAM

How to wash a sport polo to keep its shape, color and freshness

Áo polo color-block WLAM 01W227 màu trắng

Sport polos are usually made from synthetics such as nylon or polyester blended with spandex. These fabrics dry fast and stretch well, but they need slightly different care from cotton. Wash them the wrong way and the shirt loses its shape and stretch, and still smells of sweat straight out of the wash.

Why sportswear holds odor

Synthetic fibers such as polyester tend to hold on to sweat and body oils more than many other fabrics. If fabric softener residue is also stuck to the fibers, odor-causing bacteria have even more to cling to. According to Nike's workout-clothes care guide, softener residue builds up over time and becomes a layer that traps odor-causing bacteria.

7 steps to wash it right

  1. Wash soon. Don't leave a sweaty shirt in your sports bag overnight.
  2. Turn it inside out, close the zip, do up the buttons. This protects the fabric surface and the logo. If machine washing, use a laundry bag.
  3. Cold or lukewarm water below 30°C, gentle cycle. Hot water can warp the shirt and damage the spandex's stretch.
  4. No fabric softener. Softener coats the fibers in a thin film that reduces wicking and traps odor. Dryer sheets do the same.
  5. No bleach, and no long soaks in concentrated detergent.
  6. Dry in an airy spot out of harsh sun. No high-heat tumble drying.
  7. Iron on low if needed, never directly on the logo.

What if it already smells

Nike suggests soaking the shirt in 1 part white vinegar to 4 parts cold water for about 20–30 minutes before washing. Some sources advise against vinegar on synthetics, so test it on a hidden spot first and don't soak too long. A detergent made for sportswear is another option.

Do antibacterial shirts need careful washing?

Yes. Antibacterial fabric limits odor-causing bacteria; it doesn't replace washing. For example, the fabrics of 01W228 and 02W234 reach antibacterial grade 10A in test reports and remain effective after 300 washes. Even so, washing correctly is what keeps the shape and color.

Recap

  • Cold water, gentle cycle, inside out.
  • No softener, no bleach, no hot drying.
  • Dry in the shade, wash right after playing.

Care instructions for each style are in the product description. See WLAM polos.

Sources