How to Wash and Care for Your Running Shorts

Quick answer

Wash your running shorts in cold water on a gentle cycle, then air dry them away from direct heat to preserve the fabric's stretch and moisture-wicking properties.

Step-by-step care routine

1. Rinse immediately after wear: Rinse your shorts in cool water right after a run to remove sweat and salt. This prevents odor buildup and keeps the fabric fresh. Don't let sweaty shorts sit in a gym bag for hours—rinse or at least hang them to air out.
2. Turn shorts inside out: Turn your shorts inside out before washing. This protects the outer fabric and any reflective details from friction, and helps clean the sweat-facing side more thoroughly. Inside-out washing also reduces pilling on the outer surface.
3. Use cold water and a gentle cycle: Set your washing machine to cold water (below 30°C / 86°F) and a gentle or delicate cycle. Use a mild liquid detergent—avoid powder, bleach, and fabric softener. Hot water damages elastane; fabric softener clogs moisture-wicking fibers.
4. Air dry, never tumble dry: Lay your shorts flat or hang them to dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Do not wring them out. Avoid direct sunlight and radiators, which can degrade the elastic. Tumble drying on high heat is the fastest way to ruin the fit of your shorts.
5. Store loosely folded: Once dry, fold your shorts loosely and store them in a drawer or on a shelf. Avoid hanging them by the waistband for long periods, as that can stretch out the elastic. Over time, hanging can distort the waistband shape.

Products mentioned

• Streamline Training 3" Shorts - Sporting Green: The Streamline Training 3" Shorts are made with breathable running poly fabric and an encased elastic waistband with drawcords. Gentle washing preserves the elastic waistband and keeps the fabric breathable for your toughest sessions.

  

• Tempo 3" Run Shorts - Arctic: The Tempo 3" Run Shorts are lightweight, breathable, and feature an internal knicker and hidden pocket for keys or gels. Proper care ensures the internal knicker stays in place and the hidden pocket remains secure over time.