Introduction: Why Proper Dancewear Care Matters

Dancewear is an investment — not just financially, but emotionally. Dancers rely on their leotards, leggings, tops, and accessories to support movement, comfort, and confidence. When dancewear is not cared for properly, it can lose its shape, stretch, softness, and color far too quickly.

Parents often find themselves replacing dancewear more frequently than expected, while dancers may struggle with garments that no longer fit or perform as they should. The good news? With the right care routine, high-quality dancewear can last significantly longer.

At Glam Groove, we curate premium dancewear designed to perform — and with proper care, these pieces can stay studio-ready for seasons to come. This guide covers everything you need to know about washing, drying, storing, and maintaining your dancewear the right way.

1. Understanding Dancewear Fabrics Before You Wash

Before washing any dancewear, it’s important to understand what it’s made of.

Common Dancewear Fabrics

• Nylon blends
• Spandex / elastane
• Microfiber
• Mesh and sheer overlays
• Cotton blends (less common but still used)

These fabrics are designed for stretch, breathability, and movement — but they are also more delicate than everyday clothing.

Why Fabric Knowledge Matters

Using the wrong washing method can:

• Break down elasticity
• Cause shrinking or warping
• Fade colors
• Damage mesh or seams

2. How Often Should You Wash Dancewear?

Dancewear absorbs sweat and bacteria quickly, especially during intense training.

General Rule

• After every wear for leotards, leggings, tights, and tops
• Warm-ups can be washed every 2–3 wears, depending on use

Skipping washes may seem harmless, but sweat can degrade fabric over time and cause odors that are difficult to remove.

3. Hand-Washing vs Machine-Washing Dancewear

Hand-Washing (Best Option)

Hand-washing is the safest way to care for dancewear.

How to hand-wash properly:

1. Fill a basin with cold water
2. Add a mild detergent
3. Gently swish garments for 5–10 minutes
4. Rinse thoroughly with cold water
5. Press (do not wring) excess water out

Machine-Washing (When Necessary)

If machine-washing is unavoidable:

Best practices:

• Use a gentle or delicate cycle
• Cold water only
• Place items in a mesh laundry bag
• Wash dancewear separately from heavy items

4. The Right Detergent for Dancewear

Not all detergents are created equal.

What to Use

• Mild, fragrance-free detergents
• Detergents designed for activewear
• Gentle soap formulas

What to Avoid

• Fabric softeners
• Bleach
• Harsh stain removers

Fabric softeners coat fibers and reduce breathability — a major issue for dancewear.

5. How to Dry Dancewear Properly

Heat is one of the biggest enemies of dancewear.

Never Use a Dryer

Dryers:

• Break down elastic fibers
• Cause shrinking
• Reduce fabric lifespan

Best Drying Method

• Lay flat on a clean towel
• Reshape garment gently
• Air-dry away from direct sunlight

This preserves elasticity and color.

6. How to Remove Odors & Stains from Dancewear

Odor Removal Tips

• Rinse immediately after class if possible
• Add a small amount of white vinegar to rinse water
• Avoid letting sweaty dancewear sit damp in bags

Stain Removal Tips

• Treat stains immediately
• Use mild soap and cold water
• Avoid scrubbing aggressively

For makeup stains (common during recitals), gently dab with mild soap and rinse.

7. Proper Storage: Keeping Dancewear Studio-Ready

How you store dancewear matters just as much as washing it.

Daily Storage

• Ensure items are fully dry before storing
• Use breathable drawers or shelves
• Avoid plastic bags

Travel & Dance Bags

• Use ventilated dance bags
• Remove damp clothing immediately after class
• Store shoes separately

8. Caring for Dance Shoes & Accessories

Dance Shoes

• Air out after every use
• Avoid washing unless manufacturer-approved
• Store in breathable shoe bags

Tights & Socks

• Hand-wash when possible
• Avoid sharp nails or jewelry when handling
• Store folded, not stretched

Accessories

• Hair accessories should be cleaned regularly
• Avoid moisture buildup

9. Dancewear Care for Kids vs Teens

Kids’ Dancewear

• Wash more frequently due to higher activity levels
• Choose durable fabrics
• Label items to avoid mix-ups

Teen Dancewear

• Focus on maintaining shape and elasticity
• Avoid over-washing warm-up pieces
• Follow brand care labels carefully

10. Common Dancewear Care Mistakes to Avoid

• Using hot water
• Mixing dancewear with jeans or towels
• Using fabric softener
• Wringing garments
• Leaving sweaty clothes in bags

Avoiding these mistakes can double the lifespan of quality dancewear.

11. How Quality Dancewear Makes Care Easier

High-quality dancewear:

• Retains shape better
• Resists fading
• Handles frequent washing
• Maintains comfort over time

This is why investing in well-made dancewear from specialized boutiques like Glam Groove pays off long-term.

12. Creating a Simple Dancewear Care Routine

After Class

• Air out immediately
• Rinse if heavily sweaty

Wash Day

• Cold water
• Gentle detergent
• Air-dry only

Weekly Check

• Inspect seams and elasticity
• Rotate frequently worn pieces

Final Thoughts: Care for Your Dancewear, Care for Your Performance

Dancewear supports every movement, every rehearsal, and every performance. Caring for it properly ensures dancers feel confident, comfortable, and ready to move — every single time.

At Glam Groove, we believe great dancewear deserves great care.

Explore premium dancewear designed to last at Glam-Groove.com
Curated for dancers. Built for movement.