Yes, it can be bad to rewear workout clothes without washing them, especially if you sweat heavily or are prone to skin irritation. Wearing the same activewear multiple times in a row can increase your risk of skin infections, acne, and persistent body odor. Understanding why proper gym clothing hygiene matters helps you avoid unnecessary health risks and keep your gear fresh.
Key tips: Wash after every sweaty workout, allow items to dry completely, and avoid reusing clothes if you have sensitive skin. For detailed guidelines, see advice from Mayo Clinic and CDC gym hygiene tips.
Is It Bad To Rewear Workout Clothes? (Key Facts)
Why Rewearing Workout Clothes Can Be Harmful
Rewearing unwashed gym clothes isn’t just a matter of smell—it can increase bacteria and fungus buildup on fabric, raising your risk of:
- Body acne (bacne)
- Fungal infections (like athlete’s foot or jock itch)
- Unpleasant, stubborn odors
- Skin irritation or rashes
According to dermatologists, sweat, dead skin cells, and oils trapped in synthetic fabrics create an ideal breeding ground for microbes. In 2025, the American Academy of Dermatology highlighted an uptick in skin infections traced to poor athletic clothing hygiene.
When Is It (Maybe) OK to Rewear?
If your workout was light and you barely sweat (like gentle stretching or walking), it’s generally fine to rewear the same clothes once, as long as they’re dry and odor-free. But for anything involving sweat, always wash before next use.
Health Risks of Rewearing Workout Clothes
Skin Problems and Infections
- Bacterial growth: Staphylococcus and other bacteria thrive on sweaty fabric, which can cause folliculitis (infected hair follicles) and acne.
- Fungal risk: Athlete’s foot, ringworm, and jock itch are all linked to wearing damp, used workout gear, especially socks and underwear.
- Contact dermatitis: Sensitive skin may react to built-up detergents, sweat, and bacteria.
A 2024 study published in The Journal of Clinical Dermatology found that gym-goers who rewore workout gear were twice as likely to develop skin issues compared to those who wore fresh clothes every session.
Odor, Comfort, and Clothing Longevity
Why Clothes Smell Worse When Reworn
Synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon (common in activewear) trap odor-causing bacteria. Even after drying, bacteria can reactivate with body heat and moisture, making clothes smell faster on repeat wear.
- Lingering sweat = bad odor
- Fabric breakdown: Repeatedly wearing unwashed gear accelerates fabric wear, stretching, and pilling.
How Often Should You Wash Workout Clothes?
Best Practice:
- Wash after every intense or sweaty workout.
- For socks, underwear, and sports bras: Never rewear without washing.
- If gear didn’t get wet or dirty, and passes the “sniff test,” you may rewear it once—but it’s safest to wash.
Expert Recommendations
- Mayo Clinic and CDC both advise regular washing of all activewear.
- Fitness brands like Nike, Lululemon, and Under Armour publish care guides recommending a wash after each use, especially for moisture-wicking fabrics.
Tips to Prevent Odor and Skin Issues
Actionable Steps
- Hang clothes to dry immediately after workouts if you can’t wash them right away.
- Use sports detergent or antibacterial laundry soap for best results.
- Avoid fabric softener (can trap odors and break down performance fabric).
- Store dirty clothes in a ventilated bag, not a sealed gym sack.
FAQs About Rewearing Workout Clothes
Is it ever safe to rewear workout clothes?
Only after low-sweat activities and if the clothes are completely dry and odorless.
Can I get sick from rewearing workout gear?
Not usually “sick” (like flu), but your risk of skin infection or rash increases.
Do I have to wash my shoes every time too?
No, but let them air out between uses, and wash insoles or footbeds monthly.
What about reusable gym towels?
Wash after every use. Damp towels harbor even more bacteria than clothes.
Conclusion: Don’t Risk It—Wash After Every Workout
Wearing the same workout clothes twice can cause skin problems, persistent odors, and damage to your gear.
For your health, comfort, and longevity of your clothing, always wash after a sweaty session. Make it a habit—your skin (and everyone around you) will thank you!
Need more hygiene tips? Visit the CDC gym hygiene page or check out Nike’s official care guide.