Can You Put a Football Girdle in the Dryer?
When it comes to caring for your football gear, particularly the essential piece known as a “football girdle,” there’s a common question that arises: Can you put a football girdle in the dryer? This article aims to provide you with a straightforward answer to this query while also offering valuable insights into the proper care and maintenance of your football girdle.
Understanding the Football Girdle
The term “football girdle” may sound amusing at first, but its significance becomes evident when you’re faced with the task of washing and preserving this essential piece of equipment. A football girdle resembles a pair of cycling shorts, often equipped with pockets to hold hip, tailbone, and even thigh pads. These pads play a crucial role in protecting players during the game. The purpose of a football girdle is to keep these pads securely in place under the player’s trousers, minimizing discomfort and chafing.
Can You Tumble Dry a Football Girdle?
Yes, you can tumble dry a football girdle, but with some important considerations. If the need arises, and your football girdle requires drying, it’s recommended to use the lowest setting on your clothes dryer. However, there are crucial steps to follow to ensure the proper care of your girdle:
- Cold-Water Wash: Set your washing machine to a cold-water wash. Add a mild detergent with a pH level below 10, and include the football girdle. While some suggest removing the pads before washing, manufacturers and football coaches generally advise leaving them in.
- Proper Drying: After washing, remove the girdle from the washing machine immediately. Hang it upside down from the leg openings to facilitate proper air circulation. Avoid hanging it in direct sunlight to prevent potential damage.
- Complete Drying: Ensure that the girdle is thoroughly dry before storing it. Moisture retention can lead to unpleasant odors and potential deterioration.
- Limited Washing: Wash the football girdle only as needed, avoiding excessive washing after every use. If not washing, hang the girdle to air it out.
- Tumble Drying: As mentioned, you can tumble dry the football girdle, but opt for the lowest setting on your dryer. This gentle approach helps maintain the integrity of the elastic and the fabric.
- Avoid Common Mistakes: Do not expose dirty or sweaty uniforms to each other for extended periods. Avoid chlorine bleach, fabric softeners, and dryer sheets, as they can negatively affect the materials. Additionally, refrain from ironing or soaking the girdle.
Remember, the primary goal is to preserve the elastic and fabric quality of the football girdle while effectively cleaning it.
Additional Care Tips
- Heavily soiled girdles can benefit from soaking in Oxi-Clean or a similar product.
- For machine washing, use the gentle cycle with warm water and standard laundry detergent. Avoid bleach and fabric softeners.
- Football pads, belts, pants, and jerseys can be laundered together. Air dry or use a clothes dryer on low heat.
By following these guidelines, you’ll ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your football girdle, keeping it in optimal condition for game after game. Remember, proper care not only enhances the durability of your gear but also contributes to your comfort and performance on the field.
