Do you know why your singlets don’t go for a long time? Why do their colors fade away easily? Do you have to change your gear after a few matches as it loses its shape, color, and stretch? Know that it’s not always the manufacturer’s quality issue, but your washing methods can also make a huge difference in the lifespan of your singlet. Yes, you hear it right. Not every wrestler knows how to wash a wrestling singlet.

From choosing the right detergent to following the right drying methods, every step plays a key role in maintaining the real condition of your gear. To keep your singlet serving you for a long time, we have designed this detailed guide. This guide will cover everything you need to know to keep your singlet fresh, durable, and competition-ready. So, let’s say no to frequent buying of new singlets!

Why Do You Need Unique Care Needs For Wrestling Singlet Fabrics?

Out of all the fabric options, spandex, lycra, and polyester are considered the best for making wrestling singlets. All these fabrics provide flexibility while being delicate. They have high stretchability, and that’s the main reason they are great for performance. But don’t forget that this stretchability can also cause damage if not washed properly. 

If you want to save your singlet from getting out of shape over a long period, it’s crucial to wash and store it correctly. Most importantly, you should never use any harsh detergents. Avoid excessive heat and any improper drying methods during the cleaning process. Unfortunately, all of these can degrade the fabric over time. To keep your singlet in top condition, make sure you are well understood of the specific needs of the fabric.

How to Prepare Your Singlet for Cleaning? Pre-Wash Routine

Here is the step-by-step process about how to clean a wrestling singlet:

Read the Care Label

Each manufacturer provides specific washing instructions for the singlet. So check for temperature recommendations and detergent restrictions mentioned on that guide. .

Turn the Singlet Inside Out

Once you have read all the care instructions, it’s time to turn the singlet inside out. Doing this prevents friction damage and protects printed designs, logos, and sublimated graphics. So why not?

Rinse Immediately After Use

Do you know that sweat and bacteria can break down the fibers of your singlet if left unchecked for a long time? When you’re free after a match or practice session, always rinse your singlet under cold water. Yes, cold water. This step will help remove sweat, body oils, and grime before they become a part of the fabric.

But most wrestlers will say here that they can’t wash it immediately. Well, if you’re also one of them, at least hang it up to air dry until you get the chance. But never keep it crumpled in a gym bag because it will only cause bad odors and material deterioration.

Spot-Clean Stains Before Washing

When preparing the singlet for cleaning, the third step you have to follow is spot-cleaning the stains. Singlets often get blood, sweat, or mat grime stains. You have to treat these spots before washing them to ensure they come out easily. Here’s a separate step for each: 

• Blood stains: For blood stains, apply hydrogen peroxide or cold water with mild soap.
• Sweat stains: To remove the sweat stains, soak the singlet in a mixture of water and white vinegar.
• Mat grime: Mat grime is easy to remove when you rub it gently with a soft brush and a mild detergent.

Follow all these steps before washing and you’ll feel much ease in getting your singlet a thorough clean.

Choosing the Right Detergent: What Works and What Harms?

Cleaning doesn’t just need proper washing techniques, but the detergent you use can also make a huge difference in how to wash a wrestling singlet. Here’s a complete explanation of what to use and what to not:

Best Detergents for Singlets

Look for gentle, sports-specific detergents that are:

• Non-abrasive to elastic fibers
• Designed for moisture-wicking fabrics
• Free from bleach or fabric softeners
• Effective in removing sweat and bacteria without damaging the fabric

What to Avoid

• Bleach & fabric softeners: They break down spandex fibers so your singlet loses stretch.
• Scented or heavy-duty detergents: They may leave residues that trap sweat and odor.
• Laundry pods with high chemical content: They can be too harsh on delicate fibers.
• DIY detergents containing harsh abrasives like borax: These can wear down elasticity over time.

How do you wash a wrestling singlet? Which of these steps do you follow? 

Machine Washing vs. Hand Washing: Which One is Better?

When thinking about how to wash a wrestling singlet, the most asked question is; should we go for machine washing or hand washing? Are you confused between these two? Here’s the detailed answer to your question:

Machine Washing (Best for Regular Cleaning)

Machine washing is the most convenient method for washing your wrestling singlets. But wait; don’t forget that if you apply improper techniques, it can lead to fabric damage. To ensure longevity, follow these steps:

• Pay Attention to Water Temperature

Using hot water is the biggest harm you can do with your singlet. Hot water can weaken the elastic fibers, causing them to lose their stretch. Thus, it is preferred to always use cold water as this will prevent shrinking and fading. 

• Go For Gentle Cycle Only

Set your washing machine to delicate or hand-wash mode to minimize wear and tear.

• Use a Protective Laundry Bag

You should always place your singlet in a mesh laundry bag. Doing this will reduce the friction damage from other garments.

• Wash Separately or With Similar Synthetic Fabrics

Beware, never wash your singlet with rough materials like towels or jeans. If you still do this, it can result in pilling.

Hand Washing (Best for Preserving Elasticity)

For wrestlers who want to know how to wash a wrestling singlet, hand washing is the preferred method. Here’s how to do it correctly:

1. Fill a basin or sink with cold water. Avoid hot or warm water, as it can damage the elasticity of the fabric.
2. Add a small amount of mild detergent. A teaspoon is enough. Remember that overuse of detergent can leave residue on the singlet.
3. Submerge and gently agitate. Move the singlet around with your hands, letting the detergent break down sweat and dirt. Make sure to not scrub aggressively.
4. Drain the soapy water and rinse the singlet under cold water until no detergent remains.
5. Press out excess water gently. Avoid twisting or wringing the fabric, as this can distort its shape. Instead, press it between two dry towels.

No doubt, hand washing demands more effort but it pays off by significantly extending the lifespan of your custom wrestling singlet.

Drying Your Wrestling Singlet: The Do’s and Don’ts

Cleaning your singlet is not all about washing. You have to also properly dry the gear. Here the question arises, can you put wrestling singlets in the dryer? Here’s what to do:

Best Drying Methods

• Air-dry flat: Lay the singlet on a clean towel to retain its shape.
• Hang-dry in the shade: Avoid direct sunlight, which can weaken fibers and fade colors.

What to Avoid?

• Tumble drying: Know that using high heat can shrink the singlet and damage its elasticity.
• Hanging on metal hangers: Never opt for hanging on metal hangers. Doing this can cause fabric stretching or shoulder dents.
• Drying near heaters: Never dry your wrestling singlet by placing it near heaters. This can weaken the elastic fibers over time.
• Leaving it damp for too long: Doing this can cause mildew growth.

Final Thoughts

So do you now know how to wash a wrestling singlet? You won’t disagree that taking care of your wrestling singlet isn’t complicated. All it wants is attention to detail. If you want to extend the lifespan of your gear, it’s recommended to use proper washing, drying, and storage techniques. 

Other than this, proper washing techniques will also maintain its fit, and keep it odor-free. You have to just handle them gently, avoid harsh chemicals, and always air dry. If you make singlet care a regular habit, we are sure you’ll never have to deal with faded, stretched, or smelly gear again.

FAQs

• How often should you wash your wrestling singlet?

It’s recommended to wash your singlet after every use. It will prevent bacteria buildup and odor. Remember that if you keep sweaty, unwashed singlets for a long time, it can harbor germs that cause skin infections.

• What’s the best way to wash wrestling singlets without fading the colors?

There’s nothing tricky. You have to just hand wash it in cold water with a mild, sports-specific detergent. Then turn the singlet inside out to protect the printed design. Thirdly, soak it for about 10–15 minutes. Gently rub any stained areas with your fingers. Make sure to avoid scrubbing with a brush, as it can damage the fabric. At the end, rinse thoroughly with cold water and lay it flat to air dry in the shade. 

Pro Tip: Avoid wringing or twisting the fabric. Doing this can weaken the elasticity and cause fading over time.

• Can I iron my wrestling singlet to remove wrinkles?

No, ironing can damage the synthetic fibers. To avoid wrinkling, hang your singlet properly after washing. And if it still gets wrinkles, you can use a steamer on low heat if necessary.