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Clean & care for your rucksack
Allow to dry, brush off and air out - this is the manufacturer's cleaning recommendation. Larger soiling can be rinsed out under the tap. However, if the degree of soiling does force you to use the washing machine, one wash a year won't do any harm: remove the protectors, tighten the straps and put the rucksack in a pillowcase, for example. After washing (30 degrees), dry and apply a small(!) spray of silicone spray to the zip sliders.
Washing clothes
Vests, jerseys, trousers and socks can be put in the washing machine at 40 degrees with mild detergent. However, this does not help permanently against persistent sweat bacteria, which is why most jerseys start to smell at some point.
Incidentally, the freezer compartment doesn't help either, as the bacteria thaw out along with the substances. What the latter don't like at all, however, is UV light. Therefore, dry clothes in the sun if possible. Fabrics without elastane can be washed in the washing machine at 60 degrees from time to time.
You can find more articles on the topic of "Biking in winter" here:
Clean gloves properly
Whether the Cycling gloves Whether or not they can go in the washing machine depends on the fabrics used and the palm padding. Clear leather and gel padding is better washed in the sink. Wrapped in a towel, the water can be carefully squeezed out of the gloves. Otherwise, hang the gloves dripping wet on the line to dry. Do not wring them or put them on the radiator!
All other gloves can be machine washed at a maximum of 30 degrees. But put them in a washing bag to be on the safe side. Just to make sure none disappear - like the infamous sock phenomenon.
Clean goggles and helmet
Glasses are best cleaned under a running tap at a maximum water temperature of 37 degrees, i.e. about lukewarm. Once the scratching dirt has been rinsed off, use a little washing-up liquid to remove greasy streaks. Then dry with the glasses bag or a microfibre cloth. Not with a jersey or kitchen paper!
The helmet can be washed with a sponge. Wash the removable inner padding with a little shampoo or with Care foam treat.
Shine shoes
Washing your cycling shoes in the dishwasher - is that possible? Or: Is that what you want? Well, there are people who swear by it. But what hasn't been reported yet is how long buckles and adhesives can withstand this. If you want to try it: at the lowest possible temperatures! The same applies to cleaning in the washing machine.
Hand washing is gentler. Here you can use a brush and toothbrush and also remove the sole for washing. After washing, stuff with newspaper and leave to dry at room temperature. From time to time Fresh spray!
Tips for looking after your health
Regular cycling strengthens the immune system. Clear so far - right? Basically, yes. However, the physical exertion initially weakens our defences. That's why it's important to avoid a few mistakes after the tour.
Open window effect
Cold and wet weather alone do not cause a cold. Viruses are still responsible for that, and they have an easy time of it after an extensive tour. Keyword: Open window effect. Depending on the intensity of the bike ride, the body can be busy regenerating for between three hours and three days afterwards. During this time, the immune system is practically dormant and can be easily outwitted by viruses and bacteria.
For example, if you use your morning commute to work as a training session, then have a stressful day at the office and let your colleague cough in your face at lunch, there's a good chance you'll soon be lying flat.
But there are a few Things you can doso that the open window closes again quickly after the tour: take a warm shower, rest, eat a nutritious and vitamin-rich diet, get enough sleep and, most importantly, drink plenty of fluids. It is also important to protect the mucous membranes, which act as a protective barrier against viruses in the respiratory tract, from drying out.
Tip for in between: If you are cooking pasta, hold your head over the pan for a few minutes and inhale the salt water vapours. This is a balm for your nose, sinuses and bronchial tubes, especially if your mucous membranes are already irritated by the dry heating air.
Immune system booster
Good home remedies that help prevent colds: freshly cut ginger slices poured over hot water and mixed with lemon and honey to make tea. But also chilli dishes (spicy foods stimulate the mucous membranes) and an extra portion of vitamin C and zinc (also available as food supplements).
