How to Get Sweat Smell Out of Clothes: Effective Tips for Freshness

Why Sweat Smell Lingers in Clothes

It’s completely normal for our clothes to soak up sweat, whether after a long workout, a warm summer day, or just routine activity. But what’s less pleasant is when that sweat smell doesn’t wash out easily. While your clothes may look clean, they can still carry a lingering odour. This is especially true for gym gear and synthetic fabrics.

The primary culprit? Butyric acid, a compound in sweat that becomes more active and smellier when exposed to heat. So, when you re-wear a shirt or iron it, that foul smell can re-emerge even if it was washed.

Synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon tend to retain moisture and body oils, which makes them more prone to holding onto sweat smells. In contrast, natural fabrics such as cotton allow for better absorption and washing out of odour causing substances.

If your regular laundry routine isn’t cutting it, don’t worry. We’ll walk you through how to remove sweat odours effectively using Bio-D’s eco-friendly, biodegradable laundry products.

Understanding the Science of Sweat Odour

It’s a common misconception that sweat itself smells bad. In reality, fresh sweat is mostly odourless. The smell comes from bacteria breaking down the sweat compounds, particularly butyric acid, which becomes more potent with time and heat.

These odour molecules cling to fabric fibres, especially in synthetic clothing. Over time, and without proper treatment, your clothes can start to develop a musty or sour smell, even after washing.

Understanding the science behind sweat smells helps explain why standard detergents sometimes don’t do the job. A targeted approach using the right products and steps is essential to eliminate the odour completely.

1. Pre-Soak with Bio-D Laundry Bleach

If your clothes have a persistent sweat smell, especially in areas like underarms or collars, pre-soaking them is crucial. Bio-D’s chlorine-free Laundry Bleach is a powerful, non-toxic oxidising agent that targets odour at its source.

How to Use:

• Add 2 tablespoons of Bio-D Laundry Bleach to a bucket of warm water.
• Submerge the affected clothing, making sure it’s fully saturated.
• Let it soak for at least 20 minutes.
• The oxygen released during this process helps lift and neutralise the butyric acid trapped in fabric fibres.

This step is highly effective for gym clothes, uniforms, or any fabric repeatedly exposed to sweat.

2. Pre-Treat with Bio-D Laundry Liquid

After soaking, target problem areas like underarms or sweat-stained sections by applying Bio-D Laundry Liquid directly to the fabric.

How to Use:

• Pour a small amount onto the odour-prone area.
• Gently rub the detergent into the fabric to create a light lather.
• Let it sit for around 20 minutes before placing the garment in the washing machine.

This helps break down any leftover body oils or dirt that might still be holding on to odour molecules. It’s especially useful for tight-fitting or high-performance sportswear.

3. Machine Wash with Bio-D Laundry Liquid

Once you’ve soaked and pre-treated the clothing, wash it as usual using Bio-D Non-Bio Laundry Liquid. Unlike standard detergents, Bio-D’s formula is made from plant-based ingredients that clean effectively without harsh chemicals.

Washing Tips:

• Use a gentle cycle with cold or lukewarm water to prevent odours from setting in.
• For synthetic materials, consider doing a second rinse to ensure full removal of detergent and odour.
• Avoid overloading the machine—garments need space to agitate properly for an effective wash.

The result? Fresh, clean clothes without the use of irritants or artificial fragrances.

Additional Tips for Long-Term Freshness

Keeping sweat odours at bay requires more than just effective washing. Here are some extra tips to help maintain long-lasting freshness:

• Dry Thoroughly: Always make sure clothes are fully dry before storing. Sunlight is a natural deodoriser, UV rays can help neutralise bacteria that cause odours.
• Skip Synthetic Softeners: Fabric softeners can coat fibres with residue, trapping sweat and smells. Try Bio-D’s natural Fabric Conditioner instead, which softens without synthetic additives.
• Rotate Workout Gear: Avoid wearing the same outfit multiple times without washing. Even if it looks clean, it can hold on to odour molecules from previous use.
• Wash Promptly: The sooner you wash sweaty clothes, the easier it is to remove odours. Leaving them sitting in a laundry basket only gives bacteria more time to do their work.
• Use a Laundry Booster: For especially stubborn smells, a periodic soak with Bio-D Laundry Bleach can serve as an effective laundry booster even in your regular wash routine.

Keep Your Clothes Fresh and Odour-Free with Bio-D

Dealing with sweat smell in clothes doesn’t have to mean replacing your favourite tops or gym wear. With the right approach and eco-friendly products from Bio-D, you can effectively remove odour and restore freshness, without harming the planet.

Bio-D’s plant-based, cruelty-free laundry range helps tackle odours at the source while remaining gentle on sensitive skin and safe for septic tanks. Whether it’s your everyday t-shirts, school uniforms, or activewear, a little pre-treatment and smart washing can go a long way.

Say goodbye to sweat smells and hello to freshness. Shop Bio-D’s sustainable laundry solutions today and experience the difference for yourself.