Fashion Q&A: Keeping sport bras odor-free

Q: I have an embarrassing problem. My sport bras have a mildew smell that just won't come out, no matter how much I wash them. Any suggestions? Or do I have to throw them out and buy new ones?

A: Usually, it's a buildup of mildew and/or bacteria that causes that musty odor — which only gets stronger in warm, damp conditions, such as during a sweaty workout.

Before tossing your bras, try Win Detergent, promoted as a "high-performance sports detergent." It is formulated to eliminate odors embedded in the fibers of workout clothes that most laundry detergents can't budge. It's also safe for use on all fabrics and colors, in all water temperatures, for washing machines or hand-washing, and is biodegradable. For a retailer near you or to order online, visit windetergent.com.

You could also try such home remedies as soaking your sport bras in water to which baking soda or white vinegar has been added — or adding either of those products to the machine during the wash cycle.

It is possible the problem is in your washing machine, where mildew may be growing and contaminating your sport bras. If you notice other garments or linens also have that musty smell, the aptly named Smelly Washer detergent should solve the problem. Order at smellywasher.com.

Also, try to launder all workout gear as soon as possible after a workout. And once it is washed, dry it immediately and thoroughly.

Finally, when you do need new sport bras, look for brands with antimicrobial treatments, which inhibit the growth of bacteria.

How to clean brushes

Q: How should I clean my makeup brushes, and how often?

A: Brush cleaning should be done every couple of weeks. (I know. I don't either. But I should!) Start by assembling your brushes, a clean towel and gentle liquid soap. A favorite of many makeup artists is Dr. Bronner's Magic Pure Castile Liquid Soap, available at health food stores and Target.

Squeeze the soap in a zig-zag motion across the sink. Swirl each brush around and pump it up and down in a fresh section of soap, then lay it on the counter to absorb the soap. After a few minutes, rinse each brush under warm water, swirling and pumping until all the pigment and bubbles disappear. Finally, mold the wet brushes into their original shape and lay them on the towel to dry.

Lost & found

Lost: Trudy wants just one gift for her 80th birthday: Avon's Moonwind fragrance. Anyone know where she can find this vintage scent?

Lydia is trying to track down Japanese Rose shower gel and body butter by Korres.

Found: Ashley can order shoes and boots for her size 11 feet at barefoottess.com.

Jean Patteson welcomes your questions. Mail: Orlando Sentinel. MP-218, P.O. Box 2833, Orlando, FL 32802. Phone: 407-420-5158. E-mail: jpattesonorlandosentinel.com. Blog: OrlandoSentinel.com/fashionfocus.

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