How to Wash Spandex

Spandex, also called Lycra or elastane, is a polyurethane fiber with elastic properties ideal for athletic wear, swimsuits and underwear.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Warm Water
• gentle detergent

1. Read the care instructions that came with your garment, if available, and follow them. Some spandex items can be tossed in the washer and dryer, while others require more tender care.

2. Pretreat stains by spot cleaning them with a gentle fabric detergent.

3. Hand or machine wash in warm (not hot) water, on a delicate cycle, using gentle fabric detergent.

4. Hang to dry, or place item in the dryer on a low setting.

Tips & Warnings

• Wash your spandex garments every time to wear them to avoid the build-up of body oils.

• Ironing spandex - if needed - can be tricky. To avoid damaging the cloth, use a low temperature setting and iron rapidly, not allowing the iron to stay on one spot too long.

• Do not use bleach on spandex.