How To Wash And Care For Long Sleeve Cycling Jerseys So They Last Longer

If you’ve ever wondered how to wash a cycling jersey without damaging the fabric, losing elasticity, or fading colors, the good news is that proper care is simple. With the right washing and drying habits, your jerseys will stay fresh, breathable, and high performing for much longer. When it comes to care for long sleeve cycling jerseys, consistency matters more than complicated laundry routines.

This guide covers recommended washing temperatures, detergent choice, what to avoid, how to dry jerseys correctly, and the specific differences between caring for lightweight polyester and thermal long sleeve options.

Why Proper Jersey Care Matters

Cycling jerseys are technical garments designed to wick sweat, regulate temperature, stretch comfortably, dry quickly, and maintain printed graphics. Incorrect washing habits can weaken fibers, trap odor, fade colors, or damage the material. Proper care protects performance, fit, and longevity.

General Rules: How To Wash a Cycling Jersey

These universal steps apply to almost every long or short sleeve cycling jersey:

1. Turn the jersey inside out
   Protects printed designs and fabric surface.
2. Zip up all zippers
   Prevents snagging and stretching during the wash cycle.
3. Wash in cold or mild water
   Ideal washing temperature: 20–30°C (68–86°F). Heat breaks down elastane and polyester.
4. Use gentle, sports-friendly detergent
   Avoid bleach or strong chemical cleaners.
5. Do not use fabric softener
   Softener clogs moisture-wicking fibers and causes lingering odors.
6. Wash with similar lightweight garments
   Avoid jeans, towels, Velcro or abrasive fabrics.
7. Air dry only
   Machine drying damages elasticity and may shrink technical materials.
8. Following these steps alone significantly extends jersey lifespan.

Caring for Lightweight Polyester Long Sleeve Jerseys

Lightweight long sleeve cycling jerseys are usually made from the same technical polyester used in short sleeve jerseys and bib shorts. They are designed for breathability and moisture control, which means gentle washing is key.

Care instructions:

• Wash after sweaty or dirty rides
• Use cold water and mild detergent
• Turn inside out before washing
• Do not wring, twist, or tumble dry
• Hang in the shade or lay flat to dry

Polyester dries quickly on its own, so high heat is unnecessary and harmful.

Caring for Thermal Long Sleeve Jerseys (Fleece-Lined)

Thermal jerseys require slightly different care because they contain insulation and brushed fleece.

Recommended approach:

• Wash less frequently, especially if worn over a base layer
• Use cold water and mild detergent only
• Avoid fabric softeners and high spin cycles
• Shake fabric gently to preserve fleece texture before drying
• Air dry in a ventilated space

Excessive washing can flatten fleece fibers and reduce warmth. Thermal jerseys perform best when washed only as needed.

Best Long Sleeve Cycling Jerseys

Should You Wash Jerseys After Every Ride?

• Lightweight jerseys should be washed after each sweaty ride to prevent odor and bacteria buildup.
• Thermal jerseys may not require washing after every ride if they remain clean and dry, especially when layered over a base layer.

A simple smell check usually helps determine whether washing is necessary.

Protecting Prints, Logos, and Colors

Quality cycling jerseys include durable printing, but care still matters. Montella Cycling uses Italian-made printing inks specifically developed to resist fading and peeling, even after repeated washing.

To protect printed surfaces:

• Always wash inside out
• Avoid aggressive detergents
• Do not scrub printed areas
• Keep away from high heat when drying

Proper care ensures colors remain sharp and vibrant.

Can You Wash Bib Shorts With Jerseys?

Yes, as long as both are washed in cold water with gentle detergent and air dried afterward. Avoid mixing cycling apparel with cotton clothing, as lint sticks to Lycra and polyester fabrics.

Drying Cycling Jerseys Correctly

Drying is just as important as washing:

• Hang on a drying rack in indirect light
• Ensure full airflow to prevent odor
• Do not place in direct sunlight, as it may fade colors
• Never use a tumble dryer or iron

Air drying helps jerseys maintain shape, elasticity, and moisture-wicking performance.

Storing Long Sleeve Cycling Jerseys

• Make sure garments are completely dry before storing
• Fold neatly instead of hanging to avoid stretching shoulder seams
• Store in a cool, clean, dry place

Good storage prevents mildew, odor, and fiber degradation.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to wash a cycling jersey properly is one of the simplest ways to protect your investment. When learning how to care for long sleeve cycling jerseys, focus on gentle washing, cold water, avoiding softeners, and air drying. Lightweight polyester jerseys only need basic cleaning, while thermal options require more careful, less frequent washing.

With consistent care, your jerseys will stay comfortable, functional, and great-looking for many seasons of riding. Discover our collection of durable men’s Long Sleeve Cycling Jerseys