Taking care of your cycling clothes isn’t just about keeping them clean - it’s about maintaining their performance and extending their lifespan. Here’s how to do it right:
- Wash Immediately: Don’t let sweat and bacteria settle - wash your gear right after each ride.
- Use Cold Water: Hot water can damage elastic fibers and technical fabrics. Stick to 86°F (30°C) or lower.
- Skip Fabric Softeners: They block moisture-wicking properties. Use a sports detergent instead.
- Turn Inside Out: Protect the outer fabric and ensure a thorough clean for areas in contact with your skin.
- Air Dry: Avoid dryers; heat can ruin synthetic fibers. Hang your clothes in the shade to preserve elasticity and reflective details.
Quick Overview of Key Tips
| Step | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Wash ASAP | Prevents bacteria and odor buildup |
| Use Gentle Detergent | Preserves fabric’s technical performance |
| Cold Wash | Protects elastic fibers and colors |
| Air Dry | Maintains shape and durability |
By following these simple steps, your cycling gear will stay fresh, functional, and ready for every ride. Keep reading for detailed instructions and expert advice.
Cycling Apparel Materials and Care Basics
Main Fabric Types
Cycling apparel relies on specialized fabrics designed to enhance both comfort and performance. Polyester is a staple, making up about 80% of many garments [8]. Its standout features include excellent moisture-wicking capabilities and the ability to maintain its shape during demanding rides.
Merino wool is another popular choice, offering outstanding temperature regulation and moisture management. It can absorb up to 30% of its weight in moisture and is 30 times more breathable when its fibers are under 24 microns [7][5][9].
Fabric blends are often used to combine the best qualities of different materials. For instance, pairing polyester's durability with merino wool's temperature-regulating properties creates versatile gear suitable for all seasons [6]. Lycra® (spandex) contributes stretch and compression, while nylon adds durability and speeds up drying time.
Knowing the strengths of these fabrics is essential for choosing the right care methods to keep your gear in top condition.
Common Washing Mistakes
Taking care of your cycling apparel properly can make a big difference in its performance and lifespan. Here are some common washing mistakes and how to avoid them:
| Mistake | Impact | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Fabric softener | Blocks moisture-wicking ability | Use a sports detergent [10] |
| Hot water | Weakens elastic fibers | Wash at 86°F (30°C) [13] |
| Delayed washing | Encourages bacteria growth | Wash immediately after rides [12] |
| Incorrect drying | Damages elasticity | Line dry in the shade [12] |
"The key to preventing stinky kit, when perma-odour sets in, is to wash kit ASAP after it's been worn."
– Irene Lucarelli, Marketing and CSR Specialist, Elastic Interface [13]
Proper care doesn’t just keep your gear clean - it ensures that its technical features, like breathability and moisture-wicking, remain effective. Using the wrong detergents or washing methods can reduce performance, while following the right steps helps your apparel last longer and perform better.
Up next, learn step-by-step washing instructions to keep your cycling gear in peak condition.
Washing Instructions for Cycling Clothes
Before Washing
Taking a few extra steps before tossing your cycling clothes in the wash can make a big difference in how long they last and how well they perform. Start by emptying all pockets - leftover energy gel wrappers or other items can damage your gear during the wash.
Turn your garments inside out. This protects the outer fabric and ensures the areas that touch your skin, like the chamois pads in shorts, get thoroughly cleaned.
"Turn cycling shorts inside out, as well as any screenprinted jerseys."
– Liv Cycling US [4]
Fasten all zippers and secure any hook-and-loop closures to prevent snags. For items like bib shorts, consider placing them in mesh laundry bags to avoid strap tangles or unnecessary wear. Finally, make sure to set your washing machine to a gentle cycle to keep your gear in top shape.
Machine Settings
Once your clothes are prepped, adjust your washing machine settings to protect the delicate technical fabrics.
| Setting | Recommendation | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Water Temperature | Cold (tap cold water) | Prevents color bleeding and protects elastic fibers |
| Cycle Type | Delicate/Gentle | Reduces abrasive damage |
| Spin Speed | Low | Minimizes wear and tear on fabrics |
"Low spin is best...it minimizes the abrasive damage" [1]
Detergent Guide
Choosing the right detergent is simple, and the good news is that standard options like Tide work perfectly fine for most cycling apparel. In fact, Pearl Izumi uses Tide for its in-house wash tests. The trick is to use just the right amount - too much detergent can leave residue on technical fabrics.
If your gear needs extra care, here are some specialized detergents worth considering:
| Detergent Type | Best For | Cost (per oz) |
|---|---|---|
| Nikwax Base Wash | Odor removal | $0.95 |
| Ecover Zero | Mud removal | $0.29 |
| Tide Free and Gentle | Regular washing | $0.12 |
"You'd be surprised what one drop of soap can do" [1]
With your detergent ready and settings dialed in, your cycling clothes are all set for a safe and effective wash.
Drying and Storage Methods
Drying Techniques
Air drying is the most effective way to preserve the quality and performance of your cycling gear. Start by gently squeezing out excess water without wringing, as twisting can damage the fibers. For an extra step, wrap your cycling clothes in a towel and press to absorb moisture before hanging them up.
"Air dry your clothes whenever possible, either on a drying rack or outside. Today's fabrics dry quickly because of their moisture wicking capabilities." - Silvia Smith, Ambassador [14]
Here’s how you can optimize your drying process:
| Location | Benefits | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Indoor Drying Rack | Protected from UV damage | Ensure proper ventilation |
| Outdoor Shade | Quick drying | Avoid direct sunlight |
| Flat Surface | Maintains garment shape | Use a clean, dry surface |
If air drying isn’t an option and you need to use a dryer, always choose the lowest heat setting. High heat can damage lycra and elastic components, and tumble drying might cause chamois padding to shift or lose its shape [15].
Once your gear is completely dry, it’s ready to be stored properly to maintain its performance and longevity.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage is just as important as drying when it comes to extending the life of your cycling apparel. Always ensure your gear is completely dry before storing it to avoid mold and odor buildup. Use wide, padded hangers for jerseys and jackets to help maintain their shape, and avoid overcrowding your storage space.
Here are some tips to protect your gear:
| Storage Factor | Recommendation | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Cool, dry closet or drawer | Prevents moisture damage |
| Ventilation | Well-aired space | Reduces odor buildup |
| Light Exposure | Away from windows | Protects against UV damage |
| Organization | Organize by season | Makes items easier to locate and preserves shape |
Avoid storing your cycling clothes in damp, poorly ventilated spaces, particularly during the winter months, as this can encourage mold growth. For seasonal items, consider using moth- and dust-proof bags to provide extra protection and keep your gear in excellent condition over time [16].
How to wash your cycle clothing | Cycling Weekly
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Caring for Special Features
Beyond basic cleaning, some cycling gear requires extra attention to maintain its specialized features.
Water-Repellent Treatment Care
Water-repellent treatments, like Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coatings, need specific care to stay effective. Over time, sweat, dirt, and general wear can break down the coating. A simple way to check if it’s still working? Try the water test: if water soaks into the fabric instead of beading up, it’s time to refresh the treatment.
| Care Step | Method | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Cleaning | Cold water wash (max 85°F) | Clears dirt that blocks performance |
| Detergent Choice | Use specialized detergents | Prevents residue that harms repellency |
| Heat Treatment | Low/medium tumble dry or warm iron | Reactivates the DWR coating |
| Reapplication | Apply spray-on or wash-in DWR product | Restores water-repellent properties |
"The best rule of thumb is, if your jacket or item looks dirty or is no longer repelling water, clean it. If after cleaning, the item is still not repelling water, it is time to re-waterproof." - Heidi Dale Allen, Vice President of Marketing for Nikwax [17]
Specialized detergents are a must. Regular detergents can leave behind residues that attract water, which defeats the purpose of the treatment. Zoe Hewitt, Head of Marketing Communications at Nikwax, emphasizes this:
"Normal laundry detergents can damage water repellency and can leave a water attracting residue on the item you want to waterproof" [18]
Reflective Element Protection
Preserving reflective features is just as important, especially for safety during low-light rides. Reflective elements rely on delicate microscopic beads that can wear off if not handled carefully.
| Protection Method | Benefits | Important Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Inside-Out Washing | Shields reflective surfaces | Crucial for preserving visibility |
| Gentle Cycle | Minimizes abrasion damage | Use cold or warm water |
| Separate Washing | Reduces friction with rough fabrics | Keep away from zippers or denim |
| Line Drying | Extends the lifespan of reflectivity | Avoid high heat |
When cleaning reflective gear, avoid washing it with rough-textured items like denim or garments with zippers, as these can damage the reflective surfaces. If you must use a dryer, choose the lowest heat setting and remove items promptly to prevent overheating [19].
Taking care of these specialized features ensures your gear performs at its best while staying durable and safe.
Canari Cycling Apparel Care Guide
Keep your Canari cycling gear in top shape and performing its best with this easy-to-follow care guide.
| Garment Type | Water Temperature | Cycle Type | Special Care Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Padded Shorts | Cold (60–65°F) | Gentle | Turn inside out, use a mesh laundry bag |
| Technical Jerseys | Cold (60–65°F) | Delicate | Close zippers; avoid fabric softeners |
| Performance Jackets | Cold (60–65°F) | Gentle | Zip up and secure hook-and-loop fasteners |
| Reflective Gear | Cold (60–65°F) | Gentle | Wash inside out |
These guidelines align with tried-and-true washing and drying practices, ensuring your Canari apparel stays durable and functional.
Care Tips for Padded Shorts
- Wash after every ride to prevent bacteria buildup.
- Always turn them inside out before washing.
- Use a gentle cycle with cold water and place them in a mesh laundry bag.
- Skip the fabric softeners - they can break down the material.
Care Tips for Jerseys and Jackets
For technical jerseys and jackets, stick with eco-friendly detergent in minimal amounts to avoid residue. If your jacket has water-repellent properties and water no longer beads on the surface, you can revive it by tumble drying inside-out on medium heat [11].
Storing Your Canari Gear
Proper storage is just as important as washing. Follow these do's and don'ts to keep your apparel in great condition:
| Do's | Don'ts |
|---|---|
| Store in a dry, well-ventilated area | Leave wet gear in a gym bag |
| Hang on padded hangers | Use wire hangers |
| Keep away from direct sunlight | Store in cramped or compressed spaces |
| Allow proper air circulation | Stack heavy items on your apparel |
Quick Stain Removal
Address stains as soon as possible using a damp cloth [2]. This small step can make a big difference in extending the life of your gear.
Finally, always store your clean, dry cycling apparel in a well-ventilated wardrobe, away from sunlight, to maintain its performance and longevity [2].
Summary
From the techniques outlined earlier, here’s a quick breakdown of the most important tips for washing, drying, and storing your gear:
Water Temperature and Fabric Care
Stick to cold water washes to preserve the fabric’s quality and avoid bacterial growth. As Q36.5's Bergamo explains:
"Washing in hot water is one of the two things that will damage a garment most... High water temperatures can irreparably damage garments: not just the elastic in waist and short grippers, but the fabrics themselves" [1]
Key Care Tips
- Use cold water on a gentle cycle
- Turn garments inside out
- Avoid fabric softeners and bleach
- Fasten zippers and hook-and-loop closures
- Use mesh laundry bags
- Air dry in the shade, away from direct sunlight
For stubborn stains, pre-treat by soaking overnight in cool water with a mild soap [3]. Ted Barber, Director of Advanced Development at Pearl Izumi, stresses the importance of regular cleaning:
"The dirt particles that grind into the knits cause more damage. Washing that stuff out prevents it from abrading the fibers" [1]
Finally, proper storage is essential for maintaining your gear’s performance. Follow care labels to revive water-repellent finishes when needed [11]. By sticking to these steps, you’ll keep your gear in top condition for every ride.
FAQs
Why should you wash your cycling clothes right after a ride?
Washing your cycling clothes right after a ride is key to keeping them fresh, clean, and ready for action. Sweat, dirt, and bacteria can build up on the fabric, causing bad odors and even skin irritation if ignored. Plus, over time, these elements can weaken important features like moisture-wicking and breathability, which are crucial for staying comfortable on your rides.
By cleaning your gear promptly, you help preserve its durability and performance, so it’s always in great shape for your next outing. Taking proper care of your cycling apparel not only makes it last longer but also ensures a cleaner, more enjoyable ride every time.
Why should I use a sports detergent instead of regular detergent for washing cycling clothes?
Using a sports detergent for your cycling clothes can make a big difference in how your gear performs and lasts. These detergents are specifically crafted to combat the odors caused by bacteria that get trapped in synthetic fabrics, keeping your clothes smelling fresh no matter how intense your ride gets.
Another major perk? They help preserve the special features of performance fabrics, like breathability and moisture-wicking. Regular detergents can sometimes mess with these properties, but sports detergents are made to protect them.
On top of that, they’re great at tackling sweat and body oil stains, washing them away completely without leaving behind any residue. This means no lingering odors and no buildup that could harm the fabric. The result? Your cycling gear stays comfortable, functional, and ready for the long haul.
How do I know if my cycling gear needs a new water-repellent treatment?
To figure out if your cycling gear needs a fresh coat of water-repellent treatment, keep an eye out for these telltale signs: water stops forming beads on the surface and instead gets absorbed into the fabric, leaving dark, wet spots. If your gear feels damp or heavier after being exposed to rain, it’s a strong sign that the durable water repellent (DWR) coating has worn off and needs to be reapplied.
Make it a habit to check your gear after washing or using it in wet conditions. Refreshing the DWR coating ensures your cycling clothes stay protective and ready to handle unpredictable weather.
