How to wash your cycling chamois: care tips

ABRIL 17, 2026

CARE TIPS: HOW TO WASH YOUR CYCLING CHAMOIS

At Etxeondo, every stitch and every layer of our cycling chamois is designed to deliver a unique experience on the bike. However, the performance of a high-end garment does not end when you get off the saddle — it continues in how you choose to care for it.

The chamois is the most intimate and delicate part of your kit. Its maintenance determines whether the softness, foam recovery, and that feeling of total comfort remain intact mile after mile. Proper washing is not just a matter of hygiene — it’s a way of respecting both the garment and your own comfort.

Below, we explain how to care for your bib shorts so they continue to perform like new, ride after ride.

5 TIPS FOR WASHING YOUR CHAMOIS

Maintaining the technical properties of high-end bib shorts requires care. It’s not just about cleaning the fabrics, but also about preserving the structure and softness of the foam.

Prepare Your Garment Before Washing

The first step to protecting your garment is avoiding unnecessary friction. Always wash your bib shorts inside out. This allows the chamois to be directly exposed to water and detergent for a deeper clean, while protecting the outer fabric and logos from rubbing against the drum or other garments.

Use Neutral Products

Caring for technical materials means using gentle products. Always use neutral liquid detergents.

A lesser-known tip: if you want extra disinfection and a natural way to remove salt residues, a small splash of cleaning vinegar is a perfect ally. It acts as a disinfectant and helps neutralize odors without damaging elastic fibers.

Be Careful with Fragrances

It may be tempting to go for a strong fragrance, but fabric softeners and scent boosters are the biggest enemies of technical apparel. These products create a greasy film on the fibers that blocks breathability and eventually clogs the chamois foam. To keep your kit performing properly, avoid them completely.

Wash Cycles at a Maximum of 30ºC

Heat is the main reason elastic fibers lose their memory and the fit becomes less precise. Set your washing machine to a maximum of 30ºC with moderate-length cycles. Ideally, around one hour — enough to clean the garment without subjecting it to excessive stress.

Avoid the Dryer

Using a dryer is the most common mistake — and the one that most shortens the lifespan of bib shorts with an Urraki chamois. Extreme heat irreversibly damages elastic fibers. Always air dry your garment, but avoid direct sunlight, as UV rays can harden the foam and degrade colors. Choose a dry, shaded place instead.

GOOD HABITS TO EXTEND THE LIFE OF YOUR CHAMOIS

Beyond washing, daily care and what you do right after your ride make a big difference in the longevity of your kit. Consistency is key to maintaining the fit and protection of an exceptional bib short. We recommend:

Avoid “trapped moisture”. After your ride, let your clothing breathe. Never leave damp bib shorts inside a gym bag or at the bottom of a laundry basket. Lack of ventilation creates the perfect environment for bacteria and persistent odors. If you’re not washing them immediately, hang them in a ventilated place to dry before washing.
Hygiene after every ride. Even on cold days or easy rides when you feel you haven’t sweated much, the chamois should always be washed. Sweat salts and skin residues accumulate in the foam cells, even if you don’t notice it. A light wash after every use prevents buildup that could damage the fabric’s softness or cause irritation on your next ride.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I wash bib shorts with other clothes?

Yes, but with precautions. Only mix them with sportswear or delicate garments. Avoid heavy items like jeans or clothing with buttons and zippers that may damage technical fabrics. Using a mesh laundry bag is always the safest option to prevent accidental snags.

When should I replace my bib shorts?

Bib shorts should be replaced when the chamois loses its ability to recover or if the seams and fabric fit are no longer firm. At Etxeondo, we design for durability, but over time, mileage wears down the foam. If you start feeling discomfort that wasn’t there before, it’s time to consider a new pair.

Is hand washing a good option?

It is, in fact, the most gentle option. Hand washing with lukewarm water and neutral soap avoids the mechanical stress of a washing machine. Just make sure to rinse thoroughly, as any soap residue trapped in the foam could cause skin irritation when mixed with sweat during your ride.