How to Wash and Care for Your Cycling Clothing
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Cycling Clothing has come a long way from simple cotton jerseys. Today’s high-performance gear is crafted from advanced technical fabrics that wick away sweat, regulate temperature, and enhance aerodynamics. With features like bi-component knits, antibacterial treatments, and compression zones, your cycling kit is more science than fashion. But with this innovation comes responsibility, caring for your gear properly ensures it performs at its best for years to come.
If you’ve invested in premium Cycling Clothing, here’s how to keep it in top shape without losing its performance edge.
1. Don’t Wait — Wash Early and Often
After a long ride, it’s tempting to toss your sweaty jersey and bibs in a corner and forget about them. Don’t. The combination of moisture, oils, and bacteria can damage the fabric and cause lasting odors. Wash your Cycling Clothing as soon as possible, or at least hang it to dry before laundering.
A good rule of thumb? The sooner you wash it, the longer it’ll last. If you don’t have enough for a full load, throw your gear in with regular laundry. Modern cycling fabrics are colorfast, but it’s still best to wash similar colors together.
2. Prep Your Kit Before Washing
A few small steps before washing can make a big difference.
Turn your shorts inside out — this protects the face fabric and ensures your chamois gets a thorough clean.
Zip up zippers and fasten Velcro straps to prevent snags and abrasion.
Pre-rinse muddy gear — a quick hose-off prevents dirt from grinding into the fibers.
If your kit is especially dirty, pre-treat stains using a gentle stain remover before tossing it in the wash.
3. Washing Machines Are Okay — With Care
Use a cold or cool water cycle and low spin to protect fabric integrity. If you’re using a top-loader with an agitator, place your bibs and jerseys in a mesh laundry bag to prevent stretching or tearing.
Avoid overloading the machine, give your gear space to move so detergent can do its job properly.
4. Use the Right Amount of Detergent
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Use half the recommended amount to prevent buildup, which can trap odors and reduce breathability. Skip the bleach, fabric softeners, or any detergent with “conditioning” additives, they coat fibers and reduce moisture-wicking properties.
If you have sensitive skin or ride long distances, consider a mild, fragrance-free detergent for comfort.
5. Cool It — Literally
Hot water might seem like a good idea for sanitizing, but it’s one of the worst things for your Cycling Clothing. High heat can weaken elastic grippers, damage the fibers, and ruin the fit. Most detergents today dissolve well in cold water, so there’s no need for a hot wash.
Similarly, avoid tumble drying your gear. The heat can bake in lingering oils and odors, permanently damaging performance fabrics. Instead, hang your kit to air dry, shorts, jerseys, and base layers alike.
6. The Extra Rinse Rule
If your machine has an extra rinse option, use it. A second rinse ensures all detergent is washed out, preventing buildup that can stiffen fabrics and reduce breathability. This small step keeps your cycling clothing soft, fresh, and ready for your next ride.
7. Treat It Like an Investment
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Your Cycling Clothing isn’t just apparel, it’s performance equipment. A premium kit enhances comfort, boosts performance, and protects your body from the elements. Proper care ensures your gear lasts longer, performs better, and saves you money in the long run.
Whether it’s your favorite jersey or your go-to bib shorts, give your gear the respect it deserves.
Ride Smart. Ride Strong. Ride with Scody.
For cyclists who value comfort, performance, and sustainability, Scody offers premium Cycling Clothing made right here in Australia. Each piece is engineered to withstand the toughest rides while maintaining peak performance, from the first wash to the hundredth.
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