How to Prevent Workout Sweatshirts from Pilling and Losing Their Shape

A sweatshirt can look perfectly fine one week and start feeling completely different a few washes later. The surface may seem rougher, the fit may feel slightly off, or the fabric may no longer look as fresh as it once did. 

These changes often happen gradually, which is why they are easy to overlook at first. With workout sweatshirts, small care mistakes can build up over time and affect how the garment looks and feels. 

The good news is that maintaining them does not have to be difficult. We’ve shared a few habits to help you care for your sweatshirts more carefully and keep them in better condition for longer.

Key Takeaways

• Gentle wash settings can help reduce fabric stress.
  
• Washing inside out may protect the outer surface and graphics.
  
• Cool water can help limit unwanted changes in fit.
  
• Lower dryer heat may reduce shrinkage and fabric damage.
  
• Proper storage can help sweatshirts keep their shape longer.
  

Best Ways to Keep Workout Sweatshirts Smooth and In Shape

1. Choose the Right Wash Cycle to Reduce Fabric Friction

The washer setting can influence how gently clothing moves through a cleaning cycle. For workout sweatshirts, a mild program may be suitable, as indicated by the care label, especially for fleece, cotton blends, and performance materials.

A lower-agitation setting can limit excessive twisting, tugging, and pressure inside the drum.

For better results:

• Leave enough room in the washer
  
• Avoid packing the drum tightly
  
• Select a cycle suited to lightweight or delicate garments
  
• Use the recommended spin speed
  
• Check the care label before starting
  

The purpose is to clean the sweatshirt thoroughly without subjecting it to harsh mechanical action.

2. Wash Workout Sweatshirts Inside Out

Turning sweatshirts inside out before laundering helps shield the visible exterior from direct drum exposure. This is particularly useful for pieces with logos, printed graphics, or brushed finishes.

It may help:

• Preserve printed details
  
• Limit visible fading
  
• Maintain the outer finish
  
• Reduce surface scuffing
  

Sweat, deodorant, and body oils usually collect on the inner side, so this method still targets the areas that need the most cleaning.

Tie loose drawstrings and fasten attached zippers before placing the garment in the machine.

3. Use Cool Water Instead of High Heat

Water temperature can affect how workout sweatshirts respond after repeated laundering. Very hot water may alter size, elasticity, or overall fit, depending on the fiber composition.

Cool or cold water is often suitable for routine cleaning, particularly for cotton-polyester blends and technical textiles.

Exercise clothing does not always require a hot-water wash. Normal perspiration and light soil can often be removed with an appropriate detergent and a suitable cycle.

For stubborn stains or unusually dirty garments, follow the washing directions on the label rather than automatically increasing the temperature.

4. Avoid Overusing Detergent and Fabric Softener

Too much detergent can make rinsing less efficient. Thick sweatshirts may retain excess cleaning solution, leaving the textile stiff, coated, or less comfortable after laundering.

Measure detergent according to the load size and product directions.

Fabric softener may also be unsuitable for some performance garments, particularly items designed to wick moisture during exercise.

A simple approach works well:

• Measure detergent accurately
  
• Skip unnecessary additives
  
• Choose products compatible with the material
  
• Use only the amount required
  

This helps prevent residue buildup while maintaining the intended feel and performance of the garment.

5. Separate Sweatshirts from Rough Laundry Items

Laundry sorting can make a noticeable difference when caring for workout sweatshirts.

Coarse, rigid, or hardware-heavy items can be harder on softer garments during the wash.

Keep sweatshirts apart from:

• Denim
  
• Thick towels
  
• Velcro clothing
  
• Work jackets
  
• Metal fasteners
  
• Sharp zipper pulls
  

Whenever practical, group pieces with a similar weight and texture.

Smaller workout accessories can also be placed with lighter laundry instead of bulky garments. Sorting this way creates a more compatible load and limits abrasion from rougher materials.

6. Control Dryer Heat to Help Prevent Shape Loss

Higher dryer temperatures can change how workout sweatshirts fit and feel over time.

Repeated exposure to strong heat may cause noticeable alterations in garment dimensions and finishing details.

Possible effects include:

• Shorter sleeves
  
• Reduced body length
  
• Tightened cuffs
  
• Misshapen waistbands
  
• Coarser texture
  
• Weakened printed areas
  

Air drying may be suitable when allowed. If machine drying is approved, select a low-temperature setting.

Remove the sweatshirt once the cycle is complete, rather than leaving it in a heated drum longer than necessary. This limits unnecessary thermal stress.

7. Dry Sweatshirts in a Way That Protects Their Shape

A wet sweatshirt becomes heavier, so how it is positioned during drying can affect its final appearance. A narrow hanger may place too much strain on the upper portion of the garment.

When suitable, place the sweatshirt flat on a clean surface.

While it is still damp:

• Straighten the sleeves
  
• Align the side seams
  
• Position the cuffs evenly
  
• Center the neckline
  
• Smooth the lower edge
  

Do not pull the material outward. Arrange it gently in its natural proportions and allow it to dry without added tension.

8. Reduce Friction During Workouts and Daily Wear

Pilling can also develop during regular use. Workout sweatshirts often come into repeated contact with bags, gym equipment, seating, and body movement.

Common wear zones include:

• Underarms
  
• Elbows
  
• Side panels
  
• Waist areas
  
• Backpack straps
  
• Gym benches
  

A textured bag strap, for example, may repeatedly rub against one section of the sweatshirt.

Rotating among several garments can spread regular wear across multiple pieces rather than concentrating it on one item. This may help slow visible surface damage over time.

9. Store Workout Sweatshirts Without Stretching Them

Storage conditions can affect how a sweatshirt looks between uses. Heavy garments are often better folded rather than placed on narrow hangers for long periods.

Useful storage habits include:

• Fold along natural garment lines
  
• Put clothing away only when fully dry
  
• Leave enough space in drawers
  
• Avoid tightly compressed stacks
  
• Keep weighty objects away from fleece
  
• Do not store damp clothing
  

A tidy storage area gives the sweatshirt enough room to rest without being crushed, bent, or placed under excess pressure. This helps preserve a neat appearance between wears.

Conclusion

Keeping workout sweatshirts in good condition comes down to using the right care methods at each stage. Washing, rinsing, drying, wearing, and storing all affect the garment differently, so each step deserves separate attention. 

A suitable cycle can limit harsh movement, careful detergent use can prevent buildup, and lower drying temperatures can reduce unwanted changes. Daily habits also matter, as repeated contact with rough surfaces can gradually affect the outer finish. 

With a more thoughtful routine, it becomes easier to maintain comfort, fit, and appearance over time. These small adjustments can support better long-term garment care without making laundry more complicated.

Shop workout-ready apparel from Put the Work In and keep your gear looking its best.

FAQs

Can I wash sweatshirts with regular t-shirts?

Yes, if fabric weights are similar. Mixing very heavy items with lighter shirts may create uneven movement during the washing cycle.

Should I pretreat sweatshirt stains before washing?

Yes, pretreating visible stains can improve cleaning results and reduce the need for harsher wash settings or repeated laundering afterward.

Can workout hoodies be washed with sweatshirts?

Yes, workout hoodies can usually be washed with sweatshirts when their fabric types, colors, and care requirements are reasonably similar overall.

Can backpack straps cause sweatshirt pilling?

Yes, a custom backpack with textured straps may cause repeated rubbing against sweatshirt surfaces, potentially leading to visible pilling over time.

Should workout accessories be washed separately?

A custom headband may be washed with lightweight garments when materials and washing instructions are compatible with the selected laundry cycle.