Looking after your cycling clothes
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- looking after lycra
Take care of your lycra so it keeps its stretch for longer
Cycling clothing made from special modern fabrics is expensive. It pays to look after it by taking extra care on washing day and following any specific manufacturer's instructions. Here are a few tips on washing your bike clothing that will help your stretch fabrics keep their stretch for longer.
Wash your knicks after every ride, as bacteria and sweat will cause the fabric to deteriorate. Ideally, stretch fabrics should be washed by hand in cold water using a mild soap-based detergent such as wool wash. Never ever use bleach and resist the urge to wring.
If you cannot bear the idea of washing by hand, a lingerie bag will help to protect your cycling kit from the rigours of the household wash, but make sure the water is cool and use a gentle or drip-dry cycle. Dry cleaning is not recommended.
Watch out for anything with velcro on it - those hooks can ruin fabrics they come into contact with in the wash.
Clothes dryers are evil for many reasons - a case in point being that they will ruin your cycling clothing. Drip-dry your gear away from the hot sun. Hanging your tops on a coat-hanger will help them to dry in shape.