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Why do PE shirts still smell after washing?

Sports fabrics hold on to sweat and bacteria, which is why PE shirts can still smell after a normal wash. Here is what to do before the wash, in the machine and when drying.

It's the polyester

PE shirts are polyester or dri-fit. The fabric dries fast because it pushes water away, but it holds on to the oils in sweat. A normal wash rinses out the sweat and leaves the oil behind. Bacteria feed on that oil, so the smell comes back once the shirt warms up on your child.

Hang it up first

Don't leave sweaty kit bunched up in the bag or the basket. Hang it up until wash day.

30° is enough

It doesn't need a hot wash. 30° or above does the job.

Soap in the drawer

Not straight onto the clothes in the drum.

Air dry

Heat wears out the stretch.

Pro-tip

30ml of Kerzon Gym Tonique in the drawer. It has baking soda in it, which neutralises the bacteria behind the smell.

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Kerzon Gym Tonique Specific Laundry (for Athletic & Technical Fibers)
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