I get it. This stuff isn't cheap. So take care of it. I'm right there with you. I've got 2 rash guards soaking as we speak. Here are three easy steps to follow to make your gear last without becoming a victim to the dreaded perma stank.

Step 1

Do not throw your rash guard or other gear into the laundry basket after a workout. This is the worst thing you can do. A few days later you go to wash it and biology does what biology was intended to do, which is create funk from your sweat. Get yourself a plastic bucket, put a little detergent into it, put in some warm water, and let that baby soak. I wouldn't leave it there for a week but a day or two, no problem. Rinse it out, and put it in with your regular wash. Or follow step 2. 

Step 2

Hand washing is probably enough if you followed step 1 and did not let your clothing sit around after a workout. Get in there with your hands and wash it. Rinse it well, and you should be good to go. Not letting your gear sit around is the key to keeping that stank away.

Step 3

Step away from the dryer! Hang to dry. But I'm in a hurry. Too bad. Find something else to wear. Trust me. I've had rash guards for over a year that still look great and don't smell like a science project by following these three simple steps.