best way to wash cycling clothes??

[chfong]

Howdy..

What's the best way to wash the cycling shorts ( and/or bibs ) ???
I want to see them looking as new and working as new...
without damaging their properties ( wicking, comfort, stretching, etc.. )

Hand-wash or machine-wash? cold water, warm or hot water?
which detergent is best ? fabric softener? oxygen bleach?
Best way to dry? hot air dryer, or hang drying with hand wringing ?
or place on table to dry?
dry-cleaner??? wet-cleaner ( no PERC ) ?


Thanks,
CHF

 

[parawolf]

cold wash with a very mild soap like a wool wash, and very little of it. Then lightly spin dry and hang in the shade to dry completely.

If you are like me and throw them in the washing machine, get a bag from your supermarket which is used for girls to wash their tights or bras, and put your bike gear in there (eg your knicks).

Hot wash will prematurely age your lycra.