Maintaining your cycling clothing is an important aspect of cycling. Not only does it help to extend the life of your gear, but it also ensures that it performs at its best every time you hit the road or trail. Proper care and maintenance can also help to eliminate odours and keep your clothing looking fresh and new. In this article, we’ll go over some tips on how to care for and maintain your cycling clothing and apparel to keep it in top shape.
First, let’s start with washing your cycling clothing. It’s important to wash your cycling clothing after every ride to remove sweat, dirt, and bacteria. These substances can break down the fabric and cause odours if left to sit. To wash your cycling clothing, start by turning it inside out to protect the outer layer of fabric. Next, use a mild detergent and cold water to gently hand wash or machine wash your clothing.
Once your clothing is clean, it’s time to dry it. Avoid wringing out your clothing or using a clothes dryer, as this can stretch and damage the fabric. Instead, lay your clothing flat or hang it to dry in a well-ventilated area. If you’re in a hurry, you can also use a sweater drying rack or a low-heat setting on your dryer to speed up the drying process.
Now that your cycling clothing is clean and dry, it’s time to store it properly. Avoid folding or stacking your clothing, as this can cause creases and wear. Instead, hang your clothing or roll it up and store it in a drawer or on a shelf. This will help to maintain the shape of your clothing and prevent wear and tear.
In addition to washing and storing your cycling clothing properly, there are a few other things you can do to extend its life. One important tip is to avoid wearing your cycling clothing for activities other than cycling. This includes wearing it to the gym or for casual wear. The extra strain on the fabric from these activities can cause it to break down faster.
Another way to care for your cycling clothing and apparel is to use fabric protector spray. This is a spray-on solution that creates a barrier on the fabric to help protect it from dirt, sweat, and other substances. Fabric protector spray is especially useful for clothing that is prone to getting dirty, such as bib shorts or jerseys. Simply spray it on your clothing before each ride and reapply as needed.
Finally, it’s important to repair any damage to your cycling clothing as soon as possible. This includes rips, tears, and worn-out areas. If you don’t have the skills to repair your clothing yourself, consider taking it to a professional. A small repair can save you from having to replace your entire garment.
