To wash Under Armour polos, use cold water and a gentle cycle, avoiding fabric softener and bleach, and ideally using a powdered detergent for cold water.
Washing your Under Armour polos correctly is essential to maintain their performance properties, such as moisture-wicking and breathability, and extend their lifespan. Following a few simple steps ensures your gear stays fresh and effective.
Essential Steps for Washing Under Armour Polos
Based on manufacturer recommendations and best practices for athletic wear, here's how to properly wash your Under Armour polos:
- Prepare Your Polo: Before washing, check the pockets and close any buttons or zippers to prevent snagging. Turning the polo inside out can help protect the outer surface from abrasion during the wash cycle.
- Select the Right Cycle and Temperature: As the reference states, always use cold water and a gentle cycle on your Under Armour garments. Cold water helps prevent shrinking and protects the fabric's fibers and color. A gentle cycle minimizes agitation, reducing wear and tear.
- Choose the Correct Detergent: For best results, the reference suggests choosing a powdered detergent made specifically for cold-water washes. While liquid detergents are also fine, avoid those with heavy dyes or perfumes if possible, as these can sometimes affect performance fabrics over time.
- Avoid Fabric Softener and Bleach: This is a critical step highlighted in the reference: Leave out the fabric softener and bleach, which can be harsh and break down clothing. Fabric softeners can clog the pores of technical fabrics like those used in Under Armour apparel, diminishing their moisture-wicking capabilities. Bleach is too harsh and can damage the fibers and affect color.
Why Avoid Fabric Softener and Bleach?
- Fabric Softener: Coats the fabric fibers, which can trap moisture and odors, reducing the garment's ability to wick sweat away from the body.
- Bleach: Contains harsh chemicals that can weaken synthetic fibers, cause discoloration, and reduce the elasticity and lifespan of the polo.
Drying Your Under Armour Polo
While the reference doesn't cover drying, it's generally recommended to air dry Under Armour polos by laying them flat or hanging them up. High heat from a dryer can damage the fibers and potentially cause shrinking or distortion. If you must use a dryer, opt for a low-heat or air-only setting.
Quick Guide: Do's and Don'ts
Here's a simple table summarizing the key points for washing your Under Armour polos:
| Do's | Don'ts |
|---|---|
| Use cold water | Use hot water |
| Select a gentle cycle | Use a regular or heavy-duty cycle |
| Use recommended powdered detergent | Use harsh detergents |
| Air dry or use low heat | Tumble dry on high heat |
| Turn garment inside out | Wash right side out |
| Close buttons/zippers | Leave buttons/zippers open |
| Use cold water and a gentle cycle | Use fabric softener or bleach |
| Use powdered detergent for cold washes | Use fabric softener or bleach (as reference) |
By following these washing instructions, especially using cold water and a gentle cycle and avoiding fabric softener and bleach as advised, you can keep your Under Armour polos performing well and looking great season after season. For specific care instructions, always check the garment's care tag.
