Sauna suits have become increasingly popular for their ability to help you burn calories, lose weight, and detoxify your body through increased sweating during exercise or other activities. However, these specialized garments require proper care and cleaning to maintain their effectiveness and prolong their lifespan. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover how to wash a sauna suit and everything about washing and caring to keep it in top shape.
Why Proper Cleaning is Essential
Sauna suits are designed to make you sweat profusely, which means they’re exposed to a significant amount of perspiration, body oils, and other substances that can lead to the growth of bacteria, mold, and unpleasant odors. If not cleaned regularly, your sauna suit can become a breeding ground for these unwanted elements, compromising not only its performance but also your health and hygiene.
Furthermore, neglecting to clean your sauna suit can cause the fabric to break down over time, leading to premature wear and tear, and ultimately, the need to replace it sooner than expected. Proper cleaning and care can help extend the life of your sauna suit, saving you money in the long run.
Hand Washing Your Sauna Suit
While machine washing is an option for some sauna suits, hand washing is generally recommended as the safest and most gentle method for cleaning these garments. Here’s a step-by-step guide to hand washing your sauna suit:
- Read the Care Label Before you begin, always read the care label on your sauna suit for any specific instructions from the manufacturer. Some suits may have special requirements or restrictions regarding washing methods, water temperature, and detergents.
- Prepare the Cleaning Solution Fill a clean sink or basin with lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild detergent or sports wash specifically designed for activewear. Avoid using regular laundry detergents, as they can be too harsh and potentially damage the suit’s material.
- Soak and Gently Scrub Submerge your sauna suit in the cleaning solution and let it soak for 10-15 minutes. This will help loosen any dirt, sweat, or other residues. Gently scrub the suit with your hands or a soft-bristled brush, paying extra attention to areas with visible stains or built-up grime.
- Rinse Thoroughly After scrubbing, drain the dirty solution and refill the sink or basin with clean, cool water. Rinse the sauna suit thoroughly to remove all traces of soap or detergent. Repeat the rinsing process if necessary until the water runs clear.
- Squeeze Out Excess Water Once rinsed, gently squeeze the sauna suit to remove excess water, being careful not to twist or wring it, as this can damage the fabric.
- Air Dry Lay the sauna suit flat on a clean towel or hang it up to air dry. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources, as they can cause the material to become stiff or brittle. It’s best to let the suit air dry completely before wearing or storing it.
Machine Washing Your Sauna Suit
While hand washing is the preferred method, some sauna suits are designed to withstand machine washing. However, it’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to avoid damaging the suit or shortening its lifespan. Here are the steps to machine wash your sauna suit:
- Read the Care Label Again, start by reading the care label for specific instructions on machine washing. If the label doesn’t explicitly state that machine washing is acceptable, it’s best to stick to hand washing to be on the safe side.
- Choose the Right Settings If machine washing is permitted, select the delicate or gentle cycle on your washing machine. Avoid using any heavy-duty or high-spin cycles, as they can be too rough on the suit’s fabric.
- Use the Appropriate Detergent Use a mild detergent or sports wash specifically designed for activewear or delicate fabrics. Regular laundry detergents can be too harsh and potentially damage the suit’s material.
- Wash Alone or with Similar Items It’s best to wash your sauna suit alone or with other lightweight, moisture-wicking garments to prevent friction and abrasion from heavier items.
- Air Dry After the wash cycle is complete, remove the sauna suit from the machine and air dry it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Avoid using a dryer, as the heat can cause shrinkage, fading, or damage to the suit’s material.
Caring for Your Sauna Suit
Proper care extends beyond just washing your sauna suit. Here are some additional tips to help prolong the life of your sauna suit and keep it performing at its best:
- Rinse After Each Use Even if you don’t plan on washing your sauna suit after every wear, it’s a good idea to rinse it with clean water after each use. This will help remove any sweat, dirt, or residue that could potentially lead to odors or discoloration.
- Avoid Fabric Softeners and Bleach Fabric softeners and bleach can be harsh on the synthetic materials used in sauna suits, causing them to break down faster. Stick to mild detergents or sports washes specifically designed for activewear.
- Store Properly When not in use, store your sauna suit in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Avoid stuffing it into a bag or drawer, as this can cause creases or wrinkles that are difficult to remove.
- Inspect for Wear and Tear Regularly inspect your sauna suit for any signs of wear and tear, such as holes, fraying, or thin spots. If you notice any significant damage, it’s best to replace the suit to ensure your safety and the effectiveness of your workouts.
- Replace When Necessary Even with proper care, sauna suits have a limited lifespan and will eventually need to be replaced. If you notice a significant decrease in performance or excessive wear and tear, it’s time to invest in a new suit.
By following these guidelines for washing and caring for your sauna suit, you’ll not only extend its lifespan but also ensure that it continues to provide optimal performance and results during your workouts or other activities. Remember, a well-maintained sauna suit is an investment in your health and fitness journey.
Bottom Line
Whether you choose to hand wash or machine wash your suit (following the manufacturer’s instructions), it’s important to use the right cleaning products and techniques to avoid damaging the specialized fabric. Additionally, proper storage and regular inspections can help prevent premature wear and tear, ensuring your sauna suit lasts as long as possible.
By taking the time to care for your sauna suit properly, you’ll not only extend its lifespan but also ensure that it continues to provide the benefits you seek during your fitness journey. So, don’t neglect this crucial piece of workout gear – follow the guidelines outlined in this guide, and your sauna suit will be a reliable companion for many sweaty sessions to come.
