This may sound like a trivial question - but do technical garments (eg Dri-Fit) etc REALLY need to be washed at 30 degrees? Everything in my house gets washed at 40 but noticed my new running gear says wash at 30. Will it all be ruined if I stick it in at 40? Does anyone know what happens - does it stop "wicking"/shrink or what?

I've washed 3 DRI-FIT items at both 30ºC and 40ºC for years and nothing bad seems to have happened to them.
Never noticed though, if they also say "wash at 30ºC".

I wash all my running gear on 30 but I have so much of it now, I can let it build up to make one load, your not supposed to use conditioner either, as it can affect the elasticity I think. Also I have noticed a couple of my tops can be washed at 40 so I don't think there is too much to worry about.

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A loser is not the one who runs last in the race. It's the one who sits and watches and who has never tried to run.
Bird in Boots Oh what have I done FLM09

I've strted washing most of my coloured was at 30 but its more of an environmental thing.

I always wash at 40 deg.

Never use fabric conditioner on wicking fabrics though... it actually affects the 'wicking' properties so it's less efficient.... apparently

You have to wash them, do you?

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One small step for man.....

I bet you stink nice, then

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A loser is not the one who runs last in the race. It's the one who sits and watches and who has never tried to run.
Bird in Boots Oh what have I done FLM09

It's the only way to get a clear run when racing!

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One small step for man.....

Even more reason to stay in front of you on Sunday then, Steve

I think there's no doubt you'll be ahead of me esp. if you're on the Green start.

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One small step for man.....