I don’t worry too much about sorting my laundry. But there are some pieces of clothing that you need to take special care when you are doing laundry. If you want your clothing to last longer – make sure you follow the instructions on the tags of the clothing.
Your biking clothes will show signs of adventure and hard work after an exciting ride through muddy trails or rough terrain. Not only is taking good care of your cycling gear about keeping it clean, but it is also about keeping it working well and lasting a long time.
In this blog, you will uncover six essential tips to help you maintain and wash your cycling clothing and apparel to keep them functional and ready for your next ride.
If you want to make sure your cycling clothes last longer make sure you check out these tips to Wash Your Cycling Clothes
1. Read the Care Label
Before washing your cycling clothes, always read the care label attached to each garment. Care labels provide specific instructions from the manufacturer on how to wash and care for the fabric.
They indicate water temperature, washing cycle type (gentle, normal), and any special instructions, such as avoiding bleach or using a delicate wash bag. Following these instructions helps maintain the fabric’s integrity and prolongs the lifespan of your cycling apparel.
2. Separate by Fabric Type
Sort your cycling clothes into separate loads based on fabric type and color. This prevents damage from friction during washing and helps maintain the quality of each garment.
Separate delicate fabrics like Lycra or spandex from rougher fabrics like cotton or polyester. Wash similar colors together to avoid color bleeding or dye transfer.
3. Use Cold Water
Wash your cycling clothes in cold water to preserve their elasticity and prevent shrinking. Cold water is gentler on fabrics compared to hot water, which can cause colors to fade and materials to deteriorate over time. It also helps maintain the moisture-wicking properties of performance fabrics used in cycling apparel.
4. Inside Out
Turn your cycling clothes inside out before washing them. This protects the outer surface and any printed or reflective elements from abrasion during the washing cycle. Washing clothes inside out also helps prevent pilling and maintains the garment’s appearance over repeated washes.
5. Skip the Fabric Softener
Avoid using fabric softeners when washing cycling clothes. Fabric softeners can leave residues that clog the fabric’s pores, reducing its moisture-wicking ability.
Instead, use a mild detergent formulated for sports or performance fabrics. These detergents clean effectively without leaving residues that can affect the fabric’s performance.
6. Air Dry
When you can, let your cycling clothes dry in the air after washing them. To keep them from fading, hang them on a clothesline or drying rack out of direct sunlight.
Never use a dryer on your cycling clothes because the heat can damage the elastic fibers and make them wear out faster. Leaving clothes to dry in the air also helps them keep their shape and fit.
Maintain Your Gear for Optimal Performance
Maintaining your cycling gear through proper washing techniques is essential for ensuring optimal performance and longevity. By following these tips, you not only preserve the quality and functionality of your clothes but also enhance comfort during your rides.
Remember, investing time in caring for your gear pays off in the long run, keeping you ready to conquer new cycling adventures with confidence.
A microsuede couch is also a tricky fabric to clean. Check out these tips to clean a microfiber couch.