Black Entrepreneur Launches ‘Washletics’ to Reinvent Laundry Care A new Black-owned brand is shaking up the household essentials market with innovation rooted in everyday problems. Washletics, founded by entrepreneur Adrian Abrams, is a specialized detergent designed to eliminate deep-set odors in activewear — a common issue traditional detergents often fail to solve. Abrams, a student at Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business, developed the product after recognizing a gap in the market for effective, clean-ingredient solutions specifically tailored for sweat-heavy clothing. A Smart Solution for a Common Problem Unlike traditional detergents that rely on fragrances to mask odors, Washletics uses a targeted enzyme blend to break down sweat, oils, and bacteria embedded in fabrics. This approach allows for a deeper clean without the need for added scent boosters or harsh chemicals. The formula also avoids heavy dyes and focuses on cleaner ingredients, appealing to consumers seeking both performance and sustainability in their everyday products. From Classroom Idea to Award-Winning Startup Washletics began as a concept developed during Abrams’ MBA journey but quickly gained traction. The product earned recognition after winning a top prize at a Duke Venture Capital Pitch Competition, with classmates becoming early adopters and supporters. With growing momentum, Abrams plans to scale the brand nationally, positioning Washletics as a go-to solution for athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and anyone dealing with stubborn clothing odors. Washletics represents a broader shift in entrepreneurship — where innovation meets everyday necessity. By tackling a “simple” but overlooked problem, Abrams is proving that impactful business ideas don’t always have to be flashy — they just need to work. His journey also highlights the continued rise of Black-owned brands entering and disrupting mainstream consumer markets, bringing fresh perspectives and solutions to industries that have remained unchanged for decades.
