Keeping Your Leotard ACA-Ready

Your leotard works hard every class, every rehearsal, every competition. With the right care routine, it will keep its shape, color, and comfort for much longer. Here's everything you need to know about washing, drying, odor removal, and storage.

Hand Washing vs. Machine Washing

Hand washing is always the gentler option and is ideal for leotards with embellishments, mesh panels, or delicate trims. Fill a basin with cool or lukewarm water, add a small amount of mild detergent formulated for delicates, and gently swirl the leotard for a minute or two. Rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear.

Machine washing is convenient and can work well for everyday leotards. If you go this route, follow these steps to minimise wear:

• Turn the leotard inside out before loading.
• Place it in a mesh laundry bag to protect the fabric and any decorative details.
• Select the delicate or gentle cycle with cold water.
• Use a mild, colour-safe detergent — avoid fabric softener, which can break down stretch fibres over time.

Whichever method you choose, wash your leotard soon after wearing — the longer sweat sits in the fabric, the harder it is to remove.

Removing Sweat Odor

Persistent odor is one of the most common concerns with ACA dancewear, and it's completely normal after intense training. Here are a few approaches that work:

• White vinegar soak: Before washing, soak the leotard in a solution of one part white vinegar to four parts cool water for 15–30 minutes. Vinegar neutralises odor-causing bacteria without damaging the fabric. Rinse well before laundering as usual.
• Baking soda pre-treat: Dissolve a tablespoon of baking soda in a basin of cool water and soak for 30 minutes before washing. This is a gentle, effective option for stubborn smells.
• Wash promptly: The single best odor-prevention habit is not letting a sweaty leotard sit in a bag or hamper for hours. If you can't wash it right away, hang it to air out first.

Avoid using hot water or strong detergents to tackle odor — heat can set stains and break down stretch fibres rather than helping.

Drying Your Leotard Gently

Never put a leotard in the tumble dryer. The heat can shrink the fabric, damage elasticity, and cause colours to fade prematurely.

Instead:

• After washing, gently press (don't wring) the leotard against the side of the basin to remove excess water.
• Lay it flat on a clean, dry towel, roll the towel up, and press gently to absorb more moisture.
• Reshape the leotard and lay it flat on a fresh dry towel or a drying rack, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Direct sun can fade colours over time.
• Allow it to air dry completely before storing — storing a damp leotard can lead to mildew and persistent odor.

Storing Your Leotard

Proper storage is the final step in keeping your leotard in competition condition:

• Fold, don't hang: Hanging a leotard by its straps over time can stretch them out of shape. Fold it neatly and store it flat in a drawer.
• Keep it dry: Store in a cool, dry place away from humidity. Avoid leaving leotards in a gym bag for extended periods.
• Separate embellished styles: If your leotard has rhinestones, sequins, or other decorative details, store it separately or in its own garment bag to prevent snags on other items.
• Avoid compression: Don't pack leotards tightly under heavy items — giving them a little breathing room helps them hold their shape.

Find Your Next Leotard

Ready to add a new ACA piece to your rotation? The Leotards collection has a range of styles for every level and occasion — including the ever-popular Princess Leotard in Black, a studio favourite for its clean lines and comfortable fit. With a little care, your next leotard will be a long-lasting staple in your dancewear wardrobe.