Hey, if you're serious about your volleyball game, then you probably know how crucial it is to take care of your knee support gear. I can't emphasize enough the importance of maintaining and cleaning it properly. Trust me, looking after your knee support isn’t rocket science, but it does require some attention and care. With around 41 million people regularly participating in volleyball worldwide, it's evident that proper gear maintenance matters.
When was the last time you cleaned your knee support? If it smells funky or seems a bit too loose, it might be time to give it some TLC. So, let’s break it down. First off, always read the manufacturer's guidelines. Each product can have unique care instructions due to differences in materials and construction. Brands like Mizuno and Nike often provide detailed guidelines for cleaning their sports gear.
You'll want to clean your knee support every few uses, especially if you're playing multiple times a week. Not doing so can lead to bacteria and odor build-up. Here's a tip: think of your knee support like a pair of socks; you'd never wear the same pair for days without a wash, right? The same principle applies here. Studies show that gear washed regularly lasts up to 30% longer.
Hand-washing is often recommended, but you can machine wash on a gentle cycle if the material allows it. Add some mild detergent — avoid bleach as it can degrade the fabric and elasticity. If you're unsure about detergents, opt for ones labeled as suitable for sports gear. Viloft, a company specializing in sports fabric care, suggests using detergents free of softeners and optical brighteners as they can wreak havoc on the fabric’s integrity. Don't forget to wash at a temperature not more than 30 degrees Celsius to prevent damage.
What about drying, you ask? Air drying is your safest bet. Machine drying can be harsh and reduce the lifespan of your gear by at least 20%. Lay them flat instead of hanging them to avoid stretching out the fabric. My go-to method is laying them on a clean towel in a well-ventilated area. This treatment can extend the lifespan of your knee support by several months, if not a whole season.
Let’s not ignore the importance of storage. You should always store your knee support in a cool, dry place. Avoid keeping them in your gym bag between games as the trapped moisture can contribute to mold and bacteria growth. Think of it like this: A UCLA study once highlighted that leaving damp gear in confined spaces could lead to a 40% increase in bacterial growth. Have a designated spot for your gear at home where they can dry out completely before the next use.
Also, consider having more than one pair of knee support. This rotation allows each pair to fully dry and recover their shape between uses, which can significantly prolong their life. Think of it as an investment; spending an extra $20 on a second pair can keep you from spending $40 on a replacement sooner than you’d like.
Before each game or practice, inspect your knee support for any signs of wear and tear. If the elastic is stretched out or the material is thinning, it might be time to replace them. In extreme cases, worn-out knee supports can decrease efficiency by up to 50%, pointless when you’re looking for optimum performance and protection. Fabrics like neoprene or spandex often have a specific lifespan, especially under heavy use. Neoprene, for instance, tends to start losing its support quality after about 6 to 12 months.
To add a technological twist, some brands now offer knee supports integrated with moisture-wicking or antimicrobial fabric. These features are more than just marketing fluff; they actually do help in keeping your gear fresher for longer. A product with integrated antimicrobial properties can reduce bacterial growth by 90%, making it an excellent choice for heavy use in sports like volleyball.
As for deodorizing, I’ve found that a quick spray with a sports gear-specific deodorizer works wonders. Brands like Febreze offer sports-oriented products that neutralize odor without harming the fabric. Remember, good maintenance not only helps in performance but can save you money and discomfort in the long run. Click here for more information on knee support for volleyball.