Letting clothes dry out a bit before putting them in the hamper can help to prevent this.

Cold water also prevents shrinking, and can help to slow fading in dark or brightly colored clothing.

Additionally, that coating can diminish the moisture-wicking properties of workout gear.

putting workout clothes in laundry

Credit:Getty Images / olegkalina

Never Use Chlorine Bleach

Gym clothes, even white ones, should never be washed withchlorine bleach.

Bleach is too harsh for delicate workout gear, and over time will break down the elastic.

Additionally, bleach reacts poorly to protein stains, including and especially sweat stains, rendering them more yellow.