What Is the Samsung Activewear Cycle? Here’s How It Works and When to Use It
The Samsung Activewear cycle is a specialized wash setting designed to clean synthetic athletic clothing, like gym gear, leggings, compression shirts, sports bras, and performance fabrics, without damaging their shape, elasticity, or sweat-wicking properties.
Unlike a normal or heavy-duty cycle, the Activewear setting uses gentler agitation, cooler water temperatures, and longer soak phases to effectively remove sweat, body oils, and odor while preserving the delicate fibers that make activewear clothes work the way they do.
If you’re washing workout clothes the same way you wash jeans or towels, you could be damaging your gear. The Activewear cycle on Samsung washers solves that problem, and this article shows you exactly how to use it.
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What the Samsung Activewear Cycle Is Really Designed For
Most activewear is made from synthetic blends like polyester, spandex, nylon, and Lycra. These materials are engineered to stretch, breathe, and wick away sweat, but they’re also sensitive to heat, friction, and harsh detergents.
The Samsung Activewear setting is fine-tuned to:
- Protect elastic fibers from damage
- Avoid over-agitating delicate performance fabrics
- Use a lower spin speed to prevent fabric warping
- Provide a longer soak to gently break down sweat and oils
- Maintain cool or warm water temps to avoid shrinking or fading
This makes it ideal for:
- Leggings and yoga pants
- Dry-fit shirts and tanks
- Compression gear
- Sports bras
- Running shorts
- Gym uniforms and jerseys
How the Samsung Activewear Cycle Works
When you select the Activewear cycle on your Samsung washer, it modifies three key elements:
- Wash Motion – Uses gentle agitation and fewer drum reversals to avoid pulling or twisting the fabric.
- Water Temperature – Stays in the cool-to-warm range (typically 30–40°C or 86–104°F), unless adjusted manually.
- Spin Speed – Lower than Normal or Heavy cycles to reduce stress on synthetic fibers and stitching.
Most Samsung models also allow extra options to be added to the Activewear cycle, such as:
- Extra Rinse – For removing excess sweat or detergent
- Steam (on compatible models) – For better odor and bacteria removal
- Soil Level Adjustment – For lightly worn vs heavily sweated-in items
Cycle time typically runs between 50–70 minutes, depending on washer model and settings.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of the Activewear Setting
Here’s how to make sure your activewear comes out fresh and intact:
- Turn clothes inside out to reduce friction and fading
- Use a mild, sports-specific detergent (avoid heavy-duty formulas)
- Don’t overload the drum, give each item space
- Avoid using fabric softener, it clogs moisture-wicking fabric
- Add an extra rinse if items are heavily soiled or if you notice detergent residue
- Air dry or use the Delicates dryer setting to protect elasticity
If your model supports SmartThings, you can also monitor the cycle remotely and receive detergent reminders.
Samsung Washer Models with the Activewear Cycle
The Activewear cycle is available in many mid-to-premium Samsung front load washers, especially in their Smart, FlexWash, and AddWash series. Look for this setting on models such as:
- Samsung WF45R6300AV
- Samsung WF45T6000AW
- Samsung WV60M9900AV (FlexWash dual washer)
- Samsung WF50A8800AV (Smart Dial model)
If you don’t see “Activewear” on your dial, check for it under Smart Control settings or additional cycle options in your digital display.
Common Misconceptions About the Activewear Cycle
“Isn’t the Delicates cycle good enough?”
Not really. Delicates focuses on lace, silk, and light woven fabrics, not sweat-soaked, stretchy garments. Activewear is optimized for synthetic fibers.
“Won’t cold water leave odors behind?”
Not if used correctly. The combination of a proper detergent and prolonged soaking action in the Activewear cycle is enough to break down body oils and bacteria, especially if you add a pre-wash or steam option.
“Can I mix in towels or cottons with my activewear?”
Avoid it. Towels are too rough and absorbent, which can damage your performance fabrics. Wash activewear as a dedicated load.
Final Thoughts
The Samsung Activewear cycle isn’t a gimmick, it’s a smart and practical feature for anyone who regularly wears performance fabrics. Whether you’re an athlete, gym enthusiast, or just someone who wears a lot of leggings and dry-fit shirts, using this cycle helps your clothes last longer, stay odor-free, and retain their stretch.
If you’re not already using it, try running your next workout load with Activewear + Extra Rinse. You’ll likely notice a difference in both smell and softness, and your clothes will thank you in the long run.
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