How to care for cycling clothing properly
- Where possible: hand washing is always more gentle
- Always turn clothes inside out
- Wash at a maximum of 30 °C on a gentle cycle (spin speed: max. 800 rpm , ideally less (600))
- No fabric softener – damages the functional fibers
- Do not put in the dryer , let it air dry
- Avoid deformation: Pull textiles into shape immediately after washing
- For coarse dirt such as mud, treat the stains directly or wash them out by hand with water after the ride
- Stains, e.g. grease stains : Pretreat with gall soap, special sports detergent or pretreatment sprays
Washing your cycling jersey – what you should keep in mind
Before washing your cycling jersey , you should completely close the zipper . This protects other delicate fabrics, the zipper itself, and prevents tangling. After washing, leave the jersey out to air, preferably in the shade . Direct sunlight can fade colors and make the material brittle.
Washing cycling shorts – how to care for bib shorts & tights
The chamois pad is the most sensitive part of your cycling shorts, sitting directly against your skin. On longer or even shorter, fast rides, you'll sweat. To prevent bacteria buildup, you should wash the shorts as soon as possible after your ride. When storing them , don't crumple them, but fold them loosely or hang them up. This will keep the padding in shape and keep the shorts comfortable for a long time.
Washing racing bike jackets, vests, etc.
Even windproof or water-repellent cycling clothing that doesn't sit directly against the skin needs to be washed occasionally . You can use a special detergent for outdoor or membrane clothing. These are free of residues that could impair performance.
How do I wash my rain jacket?
Rain jackets should only be washed when absolutely necessary. Every wash cycle can weaken the waterproofing that provides the water-repellent effect. When cleaning them, do so as gently as possible: Select a gentle cycle at a maximum of 30 degrees and use a detergent specifically designed for outdoor or membrane clothing . Avoid using fabric softener. If the water no longer beads up after washing, you can refresh the waterproofing with a suitable spray or detergent.
Tip: Wash-in detergents or wash-in waterproofing agents are a special form of waterproofing . These are added directly to the washing machine during washing. They differ from traditional waterproofing sprays, which are applied after washing.
How do I clean my base layer?
Polyester base layer:
Polyester base layers are easy to care for, but here too, wash gently to avoid damaging the fibers and structure. Wash cycling undershirts at a maximum of 30 degrees, preferably on a gentle cycle and with a laundry bag.
Merino wool base layer:
Merino wool, with a 70% content, is particularly soft, breathable, and temperature-regulating—but also delicate. With a few simple care tips, it will retain its shape for a long time. Here are the most important washing instructions for clothing made with merino wool:
- Hand wash recommended: Gently squeeze in lukewarm water, do not rub or wring. Then squeeze in a towel.
- Washing temperature : Cold or maximum 30 °C. Best in the wool or delicates program of the washing machine.
- Detergent : Use only wool detergent or mild detergent for delicates. Do not use heavy-duty detergent, as it contains enzymes that can damage the wool.
- Spin : Use a low spin speed (max. 400-600 rpm) or avoid spinning altogether. Over-spinning can cause the fibers to felt.
- Drying : Dry flat on a towel (e.g. on a clothes rack)
Airing out : Merino wool is odorless , often airing out in the fresh air is sufficient instead of washing
Cleaning overshoes
Our functional overshoes reliably protect your cycling shoes from wind and rain, and your feet from the cold. The overshoes are designed to be pulled over your shoes before riding. However, they should not be put in the washing machine. They are best cleaned by hand with clean water and a soft cloth. If necessary, you can use a little mild dish soap.
The most common mistakes when washing functional clothing
- Use fabric softener or bleach
Clogs functional fibers, attacks materials, reduces breathability - Wash too hot or spin too hard
May damage fibers, cause deformation or shrinkage - Use dryer, direct sunlight or radiators
Heat damages coatings, expands rubber, makes fabric brittle - Leave zippers open
Causes friction and damage to fabrics and seams, always close before washing
Longevity & sustainability through proper care
If you take good care of your cycling clothing, you'll need to replace it less often. This is not only sustainable, but also aligns with our straede philosophy: Less is more . With proper care, the quality of your clothing will be maintained, and you'll enjoy your products for a long time.
Frequently asked questions about washing functional clothing
The rule here is: as often as necessary, as little as possible. However, if you've sweated a lot or your clothes have gotten dirty in some other way, washing them early is a good idea.
Yes, we recommend washing new cycling clothing before wearing it for the first time. This ensures the clothing is optimally prepared for use and the materials can develop their full functionality. Please follow our care instructions.
Better not. Heat damages the seat padding and the functional fibers. It's best to air dry it, never on a heater or in direct sunlight.
This way, you can protect colors and delicate surfaces. This applies to jerseys as well as cycling shorts and vests.
Please do not use. Fabric softener clogs the functional fibers and the clothing loses its breathability.
Wash your rain jacket as infrequently as possible. If necessary, use a gentle cycle with cold water and a special detergent for membranes. Close any zippers. If the waterproofing decreases, you can refresh it with a spray or detergent.
Generally yes, if they're similar colors. We also recommend closing the zippers. White clothes should be washed separately.
This is usually due to bacteria that settle in microfibers. Regular washing (even with only light use) helps, preferably with sports detergent.
We're happy to help—just write to us at support@straede.cc . We'll get back to you promptly and personally.