How to Wash a Rash Guard: Cleaning, Drying & Storage

A Rash Guard is a protective garment that helps keep you protected from UV rays from the sun and also minimizes the chances of abrasion or frictional injuries. Such an important piece of clothing demands the proper care to make sure it can benefit you for a longer time. We often ignore it like our regular clothing after use and mix it with our dirty clothes to wash them later. But here you need to understand that a Mens Rash Guard is a functional athletic gear, and it needs to be taken care of properly for longevity.

Let's talk about some care instructions and maintenance of Rash Guards so that you can safely wash and dry them without damaging the fabric.

How to wash Rash guard safely?

Washing a Rash guard is not like washing your regular clothes, but it may require some special care. Rash Guard is made up of special fabric to provide flexibility and strength during training, which means you cannot wash it aggressively or with poor technique, as this can damage the fabric and its functionality. Treating it right increases Rash guards longevity and its ability to last. Let’s talk about some washing techniques for a Rash guard:

Preparing for Washing:

Before washing, you should prepare your rash guard and the things you may require for doing it. Here are a few things listed:

Cold Tap water
Mild Soap or Detergent
A tub when you are using the hand washing technique
Vinegar, in case you are dealing with a smelly rash guard
A proper place to dry with no direct sunlight

Rinse before washing:

Rinse off your Rash guard to remove any sand or dirt before washing it. The sand particles can damage the fabric and reduce its longevity. So, it is always best to rinse your rash guard before washing it.

Soaking:

Soak your Rash guard in cold water to remove extra residues like sweat and body odor. Cold water helps prevent fabric damage.

Removing Stains:

In case of any stains, treat those target areas with mild soap before washing the whole Rash Guard. Apply a small amount of mild soap and gently rub the stain area. It is best to avoid scrubbing the whole rash guard.

Inspect Properly:

Before washing it in a machine, inspect the inside and outside of your mens or womens Rash guard. Check if there are any loose threads or stains that may require extra attention.

Hand–Washing Technique:

This technique is one of the most favorable among all, as you can treat it gently without making any aggressive movements. Here are some of the steps you should follow:

Use cold water:

After initial rinsing, take a tub and add cold water from the tap. Cold water does not interfere with the fabric's elasticity and color, so it is advised to use cold tap water.

Add Detergent:

Use mild detergent or soap, and add it to the tub full of water. Mix it properly and then move to the next step.

Treat Stains First:

Target stains and gently scrub to remove stains. After removing stains, treat the whole Rash Guard with gentle strokes to remove dirt and body residue.

Rinse off the soap:

Now, soak the Rash guard in cold water without soap and remove all the detergent. Properly rinse it off so that no soap or detergent remains inside.

Remove excess water:

Now, without squeezing or twisting the whole rash guard, properly lift and press it to remove the extra water from the rash guard.

Machine-Washing Technique:

Washing a Rash guard in a machine is usually not preferred, but if you want to do it right, follow these steps:

Prepare washing cycle:

Put cold water in the machine and run a short cycle at low speed. Cold water is used as it makes the fabric intact and prevents fading or discoloration.

Wash Separately:

It is best to run a cycle with a Rash guard only and avoid washing it with other clothes, like towels. These fabrics are rough, which can cause friction and damage the rash guard.

Use Mild Detergent:

Use mild detergent and avoid using harsh chemicals and hot water, as they can change the integrity of the fabric. Using hot water or harsh detergents can also compromise the printed designs.

Put it inside a Laundry Bag:

When washing similar fabric, it is best to use a laundry bag to protect your Rash guard from friction damage.

How to dry rash guard?

Just like in washing, Rash guards should not be treated the same way as regular clothing when drying them. One thing is simple: you cannot apply direct heat methods to dry your Rash guard. Follow these steps instead:

Hang your Rash guard in a cool, dry place and air it completely.
Do not put it under direct sunlight and use shadows or indoors for drying.
It is best to dry your Rash Guard while it's inside out.
Do not put your Rash guard in front of excessive heat to let it dry quickly.
When using a hanger, try using padded hangers to avoid unusual shapes and indentation.

How to get smell out of rash guard?

To get the smell out of your Rash guard, you must take care of it and keep it clean. After every use, wash and store your Rash guard to prevent body odor and sweat stains. If you are dealing with a Rash guard with a bad odor, follow these steps:

Add vinegar to a tub full of water.
Soak your Rash guard for 30 to 40 minutes and then rinse it off.
Avoid any harsh chemicals like bleach to prevent discoloration or fabric damage.

How to store Rash Guard properly?

Use a Supportive Hanger

Store your rash guard on a hanger that can support its shape without causing dents or wrinkles. Padded hangers are best to maintain the shape and structure of your garment.

Flat Storage

For kids rash guards, you can also store them on a flat surface and make sure that they remain smooth and retain their shape.

Avoid Folding like Regular Clothing

Folding a rash guard and placing it in a drawer like regular clothes can affect its shape and how it fits. To preserve its fit, you should not fold it like your everyday wear while storing it.

Store in a cool, dry place

Store your rash guard in a cool, dry place because both heat and moisture can damage the fabric as well as the appearance of your rash guard.

Ventilation

Always store your rash guard in an area with good ventilation or airflow. Good ventilation prevents moisture buildup and helps avoid any odor or stench.

Important Rash Guard Care Instructions:

When washing a Rash guard, it is best to keep it inside out.
Always wash your Rash guard in cold water, as hot water can damage the fabric.
Use mild soap and detergent, and avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach.
Washing and treating Rash guards after every use can help prevent odors and stubborn stains.

Final Remarks:

Taking good care of your Rash Guard is essential to keep it in great shape and ensure it lasts a long time. Always wash it gently, either by hand or using a machine on a low setting, and remember to dry it in a cool place away from direct sunlight. Preventing odors and storing it properly will help maintain its quality. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy your Rash Guard while staying protected during your activities.

FAQs:

Can You Iron Rash guards?

No, Rash guards should never be treated with heating methods, including iron, drying at high temperatures, or exposure to direct sunlight. It is because the fabric integrity may become compromised.