Washing and storing vintage sportswear without wrecking it

A 30-year-old piece has already survived a lot — the goal now is just not undoing that. Most damage to vintage sportswear happens from heat and rough handling, not simple age.

Washing

Turn prints and embroidery inside out before washing to reduce direct friction on graphics. Cold water on a gentle cycle is the safest default for older cotton and screen prints. Skip the dryer where possible — heat is the single biggest cause of cracked prints, shrunk jerseys, and warped embroidery. Air-drying flat, away from direct sun, protects both fit and color.

Storing jackets

Wire hangers concentrate weight at two points and can distort shoulders over time, especially on satin and wool jackets. A wide, padded hanger distributes the weight properly and helps a jacket hold its shape for years instead of months.

Storing folded pieces

For tees and jerseys stored folded rather than hung, acid-free tissue paper between folds helps prevent long-term creasing and yellowing at fold lines. Keep pieces out of direct sunlight even in storage — UV exposure fades colors surprisingly fast, even through a window.

One thing to avoid

Long-term storage in sealed plastic (like the bags from a dry cleaner) can trap moisture against fabric and encourage mildew or fabric breakdown. A breathable garment bag or simply hanging in a closet is better for anything you're keeping long-term.