How to Care for Your Lulu Align Leggings to Make Them Last Longer

Lululemon Align leggings are a favorite for many due to their buttery-soft feel, high-rise fit, and versatility for both workouts and casual wear. With a price tag that reflects their premium quality, it’s important to take good care of your Align leggings to ensure they stay in top condition for as long as possible. Proper care not only keeps them looking great but also maintains their softness, flexibility, and overall longevity.

If you’re wondering how to extend the life of your beloved Align leggings, keep reading for our essential tips on washing, drying, and storing them to keep them looking new.

1. Wash with Care: Gentle Is Key

The first step in making your Lulu Align leggings last longer is washing them properly. Nulu fabric, the material used in Align leggings, is known for its softness and breathability, but it can also be delicate. To avoid damaging the fabric, follow these guidelines:

Cold Water Wash

Always wash your Align leggings in cold water. Hot water can weaken the fabric and cause it to lose its softness and elasticity over time.
Cold water helps to preserve the vibrant color and structure of the fabric while preventing any shrinkage or stretching.

Use a Gentle Detergent

Opt for a gentle, mild detergent free of harsh chemicals. This will protect the integrity of the fabric and avoid unnecessary wear.
Avoid using fabric softeners, as they can leave residue that clogs the fabric’s pores, reducing breathability and moisture-wicking capabilities.

Turn Inside Out

To protect the outside surface of your Align leggings and prevent pilling, turn them inside out before washing. This minimizes abrasion from other clothing and washing machine parts.
This simple step can keep the leggings looking smoother for longer, especially in areas like the thighs and waistband.

2. Skip the Fabric Softener: Keep the Fabric Soft Naturally

While fabric softeners might seem like a good idea to keep your leggings soft, they can actually break down the fibers in the fabric, leading to loss of elasticity and potential damage to the moisture-wicking properties. Instead, stick to a gentle detergent and cold water wash.

If you’re concerned about softness, you can try adding half a cup of white vinegar to your wash. Vinegar is a natural softener and will help maintain the softness without harming the fabric.

3. Avoid the Dryer: Air Dry to Preserve the Fit

As tempting as it may be to toss your Align leggings in the dryer for a quick turnaround, air drying is always the best option to ensure their longevity.

Why Air Drying Works

The high heat of the dryer can damage the elasticity of the fabric and cause it to lose its softness and fit over time. Align leggings are made from a spandex blend, which is particularly sensitive to heat, so air drying is essential for preserving their shape.
Hang your leggings on a clothesline or lay them flat to dry. This helps maintain their original fit and prevents any shrinkage or stretching that could occur in the dryer.

4. Don’t Overwash: Only Wash When Necessary

While it may be tempting to wash your leggings after every wear, overwashing can lead to premature wear and tear. Lululemon Align leggings don’t absorb as much sweat as other materials, so if you’ve only worn them for a light workout or for lounging, you don’t necessarily need to wash them right away.

Spot Clean When Possible

For small stains or areas that need a quick refresh, try spot cleaning with a gentle cloth or sponge and a small amount of detergent.
This will help preserve the longevity of your leggings by reducing the number of washes they undergo.

Odor Removal

If your leggings start to retain odor, add a small amount of baking soda to your wash cycle to help neutralize odors without affecting the fabric.
For tougher smells, try soaking your leggings in a mixture of water and white vinegar before washing.

5. Avoid Harsh Chemicals: No Bleach or Fabric Softener

It’s important to avoid using harsh chemicals, such as bleach or fabric softeners, when caring for your Lulu Align leggings. These chemicals can break down the fibers, cause discoloration, or damage the fabric’s natural properties. Stick to a gentle detergent and make sure to follow the care instructions on the garment’s label for best results.

6. Store Properly to Maintain Shape

How you store your Align leggings can also impact their longevity. If you toss them in a drawer without a care, they could lose their shape over time. Here’s how to store them properly:

Avoid Overcrowding

When storing your leggings, try not to overcrowd them in your drawer or closet. Over-stretching the fabric by stuffing them into tight spaces can cause them to lose their elasticity.

Use a Hanger or Drawer Organizer

Hang your leggings on a clothes hanger with clips or store them neatly in a drawer with a dividers system. This will help maintain their shape and prevent them from getting scrunched or misshapen.

Keep Away from Direct Sunlight

Store your leggings in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause the fabric’s color to fade or degrade, so it’s best to keep them out of the sun’s reach.

7. Repair Small Damages Right Away

Small damages, such as loose threads or small holes, can quickly turn into bigger problems if left untreated. Take a moment to inspect your leggings after each wear. If you notice any small issues, it’s best to repair them immediately.

How to Fix Small Holes or Snags

Sewing: If you notice a small tear or snag, sewing it up by hand with a needle and thread will help prevent it from getting worse.
Fabric glue: For those who are not adept at sewing, fabric glue can be a quick fix for small tears. Just make sure to follow the instructions and let it dry completely before wearing again.

8. Rotate Your Leggings Collection

If you wear your Lululemon Align leggings frequently, consider having a rotation system where you wear different leggings throughout the week. This helps reduce the wear and tear on any single pair and gives each one time to rest between washes.

Conclusion: Keep Your Align Leggings Looking New for Longer

Lululemon Align leggings are an investment in both comfort and style, and with a little bit of care, they can last for years. By following these simple tips—washing gently, air drying, avoiding harsh chemicals, and storing properly—you can help preserve the softness, elasticity, and overall quality of your Align leggings. Whether you’re wearing them for yoga, pilates, or just lounging, proper care will ensure that your favorite leggings continue to perform and look as great as the day you bought them.