Dancewear Care Guide: How to Make Leotards, Tights, and Shoes Last Longer

Dancewear takes a beating — stretching, sweating, washing, floor friction, and constant movement. Proper care keeps items looking new, feeling comfortable, and lasting far longer. Here’s how to care for the essentials in every dancer’s wardrobe.

1. Leotards

Washing

• Hand wash is best. Use cold water and a mild detergent.

• If machine-washing, use:

  • Cold water

  • Gentle cycle

  • Mesh laundry bag

• Avoid fabric softeners — they break down elastic fibres.

• Wash dark colours separately to avoid dye transfer.

Drying

• Never use the dryer. High heat ruins stretch fibres and elastic.

• Lay flat or hang to air dry away from direct sunlight.

Storage

• Store flat or hung by the shoulders.

• Keep mesh or lace leotards separate to prevent snags.

How to Make Leotards Last Longer

• Rotate between multiple leotards so no single one is overworn.

• Put leotards on before warm-ups to prevent friction pilling.

• Use a mesh bag in dance bags to avoid catching on zippers or shoes.

2. Tights

Washing

• Hand wash only for best results.

• Use cold water and gentle detergent.

• If machine washing, always use:

  • Mesh laundry bag

  • Gentle cycle

  • Cold water

Drying

• Lay flat to dry; never tumble dry.

• Avoid hanging by the waistband (it can stretch out).

Prevent Snags & Tears

• Keep fingernails trimmed and smooth.

• Remove jewellery when putting tights on.

• Roll tights down and slowly pull up to avoid overstretching.

• Have “class tights” and “performance tights” to reduce wear.

3. Ballet Shoes (Canvas & Leather)

Canvas Shoes

Cleaning

• Hand wash in cold water.

• Use a tiny amount of gentle soap.

• Air dry completely (stuff with paper to keep shape).

Maintenance

• Trim frayed drawstrings.

• Brush out excessive chalk/dust regularly.

• Avoid soaking — it weakens the canvas glue.

Leather Shoes

Cleaning

• Wipe with a slightly damp cloth.

• Use mild leather cleaner if needed.

• Never submerge in water.

Maintenance

• Apply a tiny amount of leather conditioner occasionally.

• Air dry after class — moisture can warp the leather.

4. Pointe Shoes

After-Class Care

• Never leave pointe shoes in a closed bag.
  Moisture breaks down the glue faster.

• Air them out at home in a cool, dry place.

• Rotate between two pairs if possible; this is the #1 way to extend lifespan.

Cleaning

• Spot clean with a slightly damp cloth.

• Pan-stiks or foundation can touch up scuffs for performances.

Longevity Tips

• Use jet glue or shellac to harden weakened areas.

• Toe pads should fully dry between uses to prevent moisture buildup.

5. Warm-Ups, Knitwear, and Shorts

Washing

• Cold wash, gentle detergent.

• Turn items inside out to prevent pilling.

• Avoid high heat — many warm-ups contain acrylic or spandex that can warp.

Drying

• Air dry only.

• Avoid hanging knitted warm-ups (they stretch out).

6. General Dancewear Care Tips

1. Keep Dancewear Separate

Store shoes in breathable bags, leotards in mesh sections, tights in their own pouch.

2. Avoid Damp Dance Bags

Moisture grows bacteria and wears out fibres.
Air out your bag nightly.

3. Rotate Pieces Frequently

Using the same leotard or tights daily will wear them out quickly.

4. Spot Clean Before Full Wash

A little stain treatment prevents overwashing.

5. Check Fit Regularly

Overstretched garments tear faster and can cause injury.

7. Travel & Competition Care

• Pack leotards and tights in separate mesh bags.

• Use silica gel packs in your dance bag to absorb moisture.

• Carry a tiny emergency repair kit:

  • Clear nail polish (tight ladders)

  • Travel sewing kit

  • Safety pins

  • Mini detergent