We all know that keeping our training gear clean is essential for ensuring our equipment lasts longer and performs better. But let’s be honest, cleaning your (non clothing) training kit can be difficult to figure out. Fear not! Here’s a practical guide to cleaning some of the more challenging pieces of your athletic gear.
1. Cleaning Your Water Bottles
That reusable water bottle isn’t just a hydration hero; it’s also a potential breeding ground for bacteria. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
Weekly Deep Clean with a Bottle Brush: Use a bottle brush to scrub the inside of your water bottle, especially if it has a narrow mouth. This will help remove any buildup of grime or mold that can accumulate over time. Scrub the bottle cap with a soapy sponge, rinse with hot water, and let everything air dry.
Monthly Refresher with Cleaning Tablets: For a more thorough clean, use fizzy cleaning tablets once a month. Fill your bottle with water, drop in a tablet, and let it sit for 30 minutes to overnight. This helps eliminate mineral buildup and lingering odors, leaving your bottle fresh and ready for use.
DIY Cleaning Solution: Combine baking soda and food-grade hydrogen peroxide for a homemade cleaning solution. Add a tablespoon of each to your water bottle, fill with water, let it sit overnight, and then rinse thoroughly.
Consider Dishwasher Safety: If your water bottle is dishwasher safe, you can use the dishwasher for cleaning. However, be cautious with plastic bottles that might melt, or bottles with stickers that could fade or peel. Always place your bottle on the top rack to reduce the risk of damage.
Remove and Clean Sealing Rings: If your water bottle has a sealing ring on the cap, be sure to remove it and clean underneath. This area can trap bacteria and mold, which won't be fully cleaned in the dishwasher.
2. Running Trainers & Cycling Shoes
Your running trainers and cycling shoes put in the hard yards, so it’s no surprise they can start to resemble the inside of a swamp. Here’s how to give them a refresh:
Shake Off the Dirt: First things first, give them a good shake or gentle tap to dislodge any dirt or debris. If mud is caked on, use a soft brush to remove it.
Remove the Insides: Take out the insoles and laces. Pop them in a pillowcase or a mesh laundry bag, then toss them in the wash.
Hand Wash Only: For the shoes themselves, resist the temptation to chuck them in the washing machine. Instead, fill a basin with warm water, add an eco-friendly laundry detergent like ecoswash, and use a soft brush to scrub the outside. Rinse thoroughly.
Drying Time: Stuff your shoes with newspaper or a microfiber towel to help them keep their shape while drying. Avoid placing them near direct heat sources, as this can cause the materials to warp.
3. Cleaning Your Waterproofs
Waterproofs are your best friend during those surprise downpours, but they need a little TLC to keep them, well, waterproof:
Choose the Right Detergent: Ordinary detergent can strip the waterproof coating from your jacket or pants. Instead, use a specialized cleaner designed for technical fabrics. Nikwax Tech Wash is a solid choice.
Machine Wash: Place your waterproofs in the washing machine on a gentle cycle with cold water. Avoid fabric softeners as they can clog the fabric’s pores.
Re-Waterproofing: After a few washes, it’s a good idea to reapply a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) treatment. You can do this by spraying or washing in a waterproofing solution like Grangers Performance Repel Plus.
4. Cleaning Your Hydration Vest
Your hydration vest is an essential piece of kit for long runs, but it’s also a magnet for sweat, dirt, and the occasional sticky energy gel mishap. Here’s how to clean it:
Empty the Bladder: If your hydration vest has a bladder, make sure to empty it and rinse it thoroughly after each use. To avoid mold, keep the bladder open and hang it upside down to dry.
Hand Wash: Spot clean the vest using warm water and a mild detergent. For a deeper clean, you can soak it in a basin of water mixed with a bit of ecoswash detergent. Gently scrub any dirty areas with a soft brush.
Avoid the Machine: Most hydration vests aren’t machine-washable, so stick to hand washing to avoid damaging the fabric and straps.
Drying: Hang your vest to air dry in a well-ventilated area. Be sure to remove the bladder first, as it might take longer to dry.
5. Cleaning Your Wetsuit
Whether you’re a triathlete or just love a good swim, your wetsuit needs regular cleaning to prevent it from smelling:
Rinse After Every Use: Always rinse your wetsuit with fresh water immediately after use, especially if you've been in saltwater. This helps to remove salt and chlorine, which can degrade the neoprene.
Soak It: Every few uses, give your wetsuit a soak in cold water with a specialized wetsuit cleaner like the Rip Curl Piss Off Wetsuit Cleaner. This will help remove any lingering odors.
Gentle Scrub: If you need to spot clean, use a soft brush and a bit of ecoswash detergent on any dirty areas. Rinse thoroughly.
Drying: Hang your wetsuit to dry in a shaded area, ideally on a wide hanger to avoid stretching the shoulders. Never hang it in direct sunlight as UV rays can damage the neoprene.
Bonus Tip: Use Climate Games to track and reduce your carbon footprint from all your training sessions. Every little bit helps when you’re trying to be a more eco-conscious athlete!
By following these tips, you’ll keep your training gear clean, extend its lifespan, and stay fresh on your next adventure.
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