If you've played any sport for a while, you've likely run into a less-than-pleasant odor lurking in your gym bag.
Pickleball is no exception, especially when you're frequently on the court. But don't worry — you don't have to throw the bag away.
Here are a few tips to help salvage your favorite bag or, even better, prevent the odors from happening in the first place.
Remove smelly articles immediately
The first step in keeping your pickleball bag smelling fresh is to remove any stinky items as soon as possible. Don’t leave those offensive socks or sweat-soaked shirts buried in the bottom of your bag.
Sweat towels, while helpful on the court, can also contribute to a funky odor if left unattended. Make it a habit to take these items out and wash them immediately after your game.
Store your shoes separately
Shoes and socks are one of the biggest culprits when it comes to gym bag odor. If your pickleball bag has a separate shoe compartment, make sure to use it.
This helps isolate the smell and prevent it from spreading to the rest of your gear. If your bag doesn’t have a dedicated shoe space, consider tying your shoes to the outside of the bag or storing them separately.
When in doubt, air it out
After a long day on the court, take everything out of your bag, turn it upside down, and allow it to breathe overnight. Pro tip: place your bag in a well-ventilated area, like a garage or patio, to let the fresh air work its magic.
Use an odor eliminator
For those times when your bag needs a quick refresh, use an odor eliminator such as Febreze or Lysol. Spraying the inside of your bag can help neutralize any lingering smells. You can also try placing odor-eliminating balls in your bag for long-term freshness.
Wash it with soap and water
Sometimes, your bag needs more than just a spray. If it’s durable enough, give it a good wash with soap and water, or even toss it in the laundry machine if the manufacturer’s instructions allow.
Just be careful not to wash it too frequently, as excessive detergent or fabric softener can sometimes trap odors rather than remove them.
Go to the pantry
For a more natural solution, try using a mix of baking soda and vinegar to deodorize your bag. Baking soda is known for its odor-absorbing properties, while vinegar acts as a natural disinfectant.
Create a solution by mixing one part baking soda with two parts vinegar and apply the solution to the areas of your bag that need the most attention. Be sure to test a small part of your bag with the solution first to ensure it won’t lift any color before applying it all over.
Dryer sheets are a failsafe
In a pinch, dryer sheets can work wonders to keep your bag smelling fresh. Just toss a couple into your bag, and they’ll help mask any lingering smells.
However, be cautious — this is a temporary fix, and you’ll still need to clean your bag regularly to avoid just covering up the odor. Change them out regularly for the best results.
Get in a clean routine
The best way to keep your pickleball bag smelling fresh is to establish a regular cleaning routine. Make it a habit to remove smelly items promptly, air out your bag after each use, and clean it regularly. Prevention is key to avoiding future unwanted smells.
