Mistakes That Ruin Your Cotton Sweatpants

Done with reading the same old fabric care instructions for cotton sweatpants that still ain’t fixing your problem?

We know no one wants their favorite sweatpant to turn scratchy, shrink in the wash, or lose that luxurious softness that made it a wardrobe favorite in the first place. However, the following mistakes could surprise even the most seasoned cotton sweatsuit users.

1. Storing Wet Cotton Sweats

You’ve probably heard of drying your cotton sweatpants, but most people don’t realize that storing damp cotton sweatpants in a pile or basket for extended periods (even if they feel cold, not wet) can harbor bacterial and fungal growth.

After storing cotton sweatpants in damp conditions (like throwing them in the laundry bin after a workout), they develop a musky, almost rotten smell that couldn't be washed out. This isn’t just a smell issue—it can damage the fibers over time.

So, never store cotton sweatpants that are even slightly damp for long periods. Always let them dry completely before putting them away, and if possible, hang them in a well-ventilated area.

2. Overloading the Washing Machine

It seems like common sense to throw all your laundry into one load, but here’s a mind-blowing fact: overloading the washing machine, even with cotton sweatpants, causes them to lose shape more rapidly.

The fibers can stretch out, especially with heavyweight cotton sweatpants. People have shared their experiences with us that after washing too many items at once, the fabric felt limp, and the elasticity was lost, even though it wasn’t the dryer that caused the issue. The mechanical agitation of the washer can be a silent culprit.

Therefore,wash cotton sweatpants in smaller loads to prevent them from overstretching. It’s a subtle but game-changing step to protect the structure and feel of the fabric.

3. Dryer Sheets and Fabric Softeners

You’ve probably heard that fabric softeners and dryer sheets can make cotton feel smoother, but did you know they can actually block the natural breathability of your sweatpants?

These products leave behind a thin, waxy coating on the fibers that not only reduces the breathability but also compromises the fabric’s ability to absorb moisture properly. Over time, this coating dulls the softness and leads to a "stiff" feeling.

Skip fabric softeners and dryer sheets when washing or drying cotton sweatpants; instead, add a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle to soften the fabric naturally.

4. Applying Deodorants Directly to Sweats

An eye-opening tip (mistake) that you might be hearing for the first time is the direct application of deodorant to sweatpants, particularly those made from pure cotton.

The salts and chemicals in deodorants can stiffen the fabric in the areas where they come into contact. This isn't just a cosmetic issue—it weakens the cotton fibers and can lead to the formation of "crunchy" spots, making your sweatpants uncomfortable.

If you've already experienced deodorant stains, rubbing them with a mixture of baking soda and water can help dissolve the residue.

5. Washing Cotton Sweatpants with Hard Water

Hard water contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium, which can cause cotton to become stiff and grayish after multiple washes.

Even their 100 cotton sweatpants lose their soft feel and become dull after washing in hard water because it strip away the natural oils in cotton fibers, leading to a rough, coarse texture.

Better use a water softener if you live in an area with hard water. It’s a rare yet game-changing tip for preserving softness.

6. Storing Cotton Sweats in the Sun

We all love the sun, but drying cotton sweatpants in direct sunlight for long periods can have a disastrous effect. Ultraviolet rays break down the natural fibers of cotton, weakening them over time. Your pants can turn from a rich color to a pale, washed-out version, and this damage is irreversible, especially for darker shades of cotton.

These tips are often “overlooked” but dive deep into the complexities of cotton sweatpants maintenance, offering insights that would make any cotton enthusiast think, "How could I have never known this?"