The Essentials Tracksuit has become a go-to for people who love comfort and clean style. But if you’ve just bought one or are thinking about it, you might wonder what happens after it goes through the wash. No one wants to deal with shrinking or fabric damage, especially when buying a set that’s meant to be worn often. In this post, we’ll talk about how the Essentials Tracksuit holds up after washing and what you can do to keep it looking fresh. We’ll also cover some simple care tips that help maintain the fit and feel of your tracksuit.
What Materials Make Up the Essentials Tracksuit?
Before you wash anything, it helps to know what the tracksuit is made of. Most Essentials tracksuits use a blend of cotton and polyester. This mix gives you the soft feel of cotton with the stretch and durability of polyester. Cotton is known for shrinking if not washed properly, while polyester usually holds its shape better. The blend is designed to give you the best of both worlds—comfort and strength. Knowing this helps you understand how it may react to heat, water, and movement during washing.
Does the Tracksuit Shrink After the First Wash?
Many people notice a slight change in size after the first wash, especially if the tracksuit is mostly cotton. That said, Essentials uses a cotton-poly blend to reduce shrinking, but it’s still important to be careful. If you wash it in hot water or dry it on high heat, there’s a chance it could shrink a little. Most customers report only a minor size change, often not even enough to notice during wear. To avoid any issues, always read the care label before washing for the first time.
How Does the Hoodie and Sweatpants Hold Up Over Time?
Over time, regular wear and washing can change the look and feel of any tracksuit. Essentials tracksuits, however, tend to stay in good shape if you follow the washing instructions. The hoodie usually holds its structure well, keeping the same shape through many cycles. The sweatpants might loosen slightly at the waistband or ankle cuffs after months of wear, but the fabric overall stays soft and wearable. Longevity depends on how often you wash and how you care for the tracksuit between wears.
How Should You Wash an Essentials Tracksuit?
Washing your tracksuit the right way helps it last longer and keeps it from shrinking. Always turn the hoodie and pants inside out to protect the outer surface. Wash them in cold water using a gentle cycle, and use mild detergent without bleach. Skip the fabric softener if you can, since it can build up in the fibers and affect the texture. Air drying is the safest method, but if you use a dryer, go with low heat only.
Should You Avoid the Dryer Completely?
If you’re in a rush, tossing the tracksuit into the dryer might seem like the fastest option. But heat is one of the biggest reasons for shrinkage. Even low heat can slowly change the size or feel of the fabric over time. That’s why many people prefer air drying, either flat on a towel or hung on a drying rack. If you must use the dryer, limit it to 10–15 minutes on low heat, then let it finish air drying. This reduces stress on the fabric and keeps it looking new.
Does the Color Fade After Washing?
Color fading is a concern for many, especially with black, grey, and tan tones that Essentials is known for. The fabric dye used in Essentials Tracksuits is pretty strong, but repeated washing in warm water or exposure to sunlight can cause fading. To keep the color sharp, always wash with similar colors in cold water. Also, avoid strong detergents and never bleach the tracksuit. Drying it indoors or in the shade also helps preserve its original color longer.
Do Essentials Tracksuits Stretch Out With Use?
The cotton-polyester blend offers a little give, so your tracksuit might stretch slightly with regular use. This is most common in the knees, elbows, or waistband where there’s repeated movement. But the stretch usually isn’t permanent. After washing, the fabric often bounces back to its original form, especially if air-dried. If you notice more sagging over time, you might want to wash it and let it rest flat to bring back some shape.
What About Pilling or Fabric Wear?
Pilling happens when tiny bits of fabric roll up into small balls after rubbing or washing. Essentials Tracksuits may show some pilling after several washes, especially around high-friction areas like underarms or thighs. This is normal for cotton-blend fabrics. To reduce pilling, wash the tracksuit with similar soft items—not towels or rough clothing—and avoid long spins or harsh detergents. A fabric shaver can clean up any pilling and help keep your set looking smooth.
Is It Safe to Iron an Essentials Tracksuit?
Wrinkles can happen, especially if you air-dry your tracksuit. While you can iron it, be sure to use a low heat setting and place a cloth between the iron and the fabric. Direct heat can damage logos or stretch the fabric. Steaming is a better option and works well for smoothing out creases without risking shrinkage. Always avoid ironing over printed or rubber sections to protect the look of your Essentials branding.
What Do Other People Say About Washing It?
A lot of people who wear Essentials say the tracksuit stays soft and holds its shape if cared for properly. On forums and reviews, many users mention that the tracksuit might shrink a little at first but then stays the same after that. Some say they’ve washed it many times and still feel like it fits just right. The key is following the care label and avoiding heat. Once you get a routine, keeping your tracksuit in good condition becomes pretty easy.