You’ve finally gotten your hands on those buttery-soft Align leggings or that sweat-wicking Swiftly Tech top, and let’s be honest – you’re in love. But here’s the deal: Lululemon gear isn’t just regular activewear. With its premium fabrics and tailored designs, taking good care of your pieces is key to making sure they last as long as they’re meant to (hint: a long time).
Don’t worry – caring for your Lululemon wardrobe doesn’t require a master’s in fabric science. Let’s break it down into simple steps that’ll keep your gear looking fresh and performing like a dream.
Lululemon uses innovative fabrics like Nulu™, Everlux™, and Luon™, designed for comfort, sweat-wicking, and performance. But these high-tech fabrics need a little TLC – because throwing them in a regular wash cycle with harsh detergents can lead to pilling, fading, or losing their magical stretch.
Think of it like this: Treat your Lululemon gear like a VIP, not just a regular gym tee.

Quick Tips for Specific Lululemon Favorites
- Align Leggings: These are super-soft but delicate, so treat them with kid gloves. Stick to yoga, Pilates, or lounging – nothing abrasive! And follow all the washing rules above.
- Everlux™ Items: Designed for intense sweat, these pieces can handle tougher workouts, but still wash them gently and avoid fabric softener.
- Metal Vent Shirts: These are prone to snagging, so wash them in a mesh laundry bag to protect the fabric.
How To Take Care Your Lululemon
Air Dry, Always! Once your clothes are clean, skip the dryer altogether. Lay your pieces flat or hang them to dry. Hot dryers are the fast lane to ruining your gear’s fit and texture – you’ve been warned!
Handling Pilling Like a Pro. Pilling happens – it’s just the nature of wear and tear with soft fabrics. If you notice it, don’t panic. Use a fabric shaver to gently remove pills and smooth things out. Pro tip: A little extra care with washing and drying (like turning items inside out) helps prevent this in the first place.
Store your Lululemon pieces in a cool, dry place. Avoid hanging leggings or stretchy items for long periods, as it can cause them to lose shape. Instead, fold them neatly. (Bonus points if you Marie Kondo your gear drawer for easy access!)
Wash It Right: The Dos and Don’ts
The Dos:
- Wash in Cold Water
Always use cold water! It helps protect the fabric’s elasticity and prevents colors from fading. Plus, it’s energy-friendly, so win-win. - Turn It Inside Out
Washing your gear inside out reduces friction on the outside of the fabric, which is one of the top causes of pilling. - Use a Gentle Cycle
Stick to the delicate or gentle cycle on your washing machine. Activewear fabrics don’t need an aggressive spin – it’s hard on the fibers. - Use a Mild Detergent
Harsh detergents with bleach or fabric softeners are a no-go. Opt for mild, scent-free options designed for activewear, which won’t clog the fabric’s sweat-wicking properties. - Wash Similar Items Together
Wash Lululemon items with other workout gear – nothing with zippers, Velcro, or hooks, which can snag the delicate fabric.
The Don’ts:
- Avoid Fabric Softeners
Softeners can coat the fabric and block its sweat-wicking and breathable qualities. Basically, they’re the enemy of your performance wear. - Say No to Hot Water and Dryer Heat
Heat weakens the stretchy fibers in Lululemon fabrics, making them lose their shape over time. Stick to air drying. - Skip Overstuffing the Machine
Overloading your washer causes extra friction, which is bad news for your gear’s longevity. Keep it light!
Caring for your Lululemon pieces is all about a little love and attention – and trust me, it’s worth it. With the right washing, drying, and storing habits, your gear will last through endless workouts, lazy Sundays, and everything in between.
Got a new Lululemon piece you’re obsessed with? Try out these tips and see the difference in how it lasts.