Why properly maintain your karting suit?
Your karting suit is more than just clothing: it's a piece of protective equipment that accompanies you on every track. Regular and appropriate maintenance helps preserve its technical properties, resistance, and visual appearance — especially if it's customized in your team's colors.
Before washing: essential precautions
First and foremost, check your suit's composition label. Most karting suits are made of polyester or mixed materials, which imposes some basic rules:
- Close all zippers and velcro fasteners before putting it in the washing machine.
- Turn the suit inside out to preserve colors and custom prints.
- A small amount of fabric softener is possible, in moderation.
Machine washing: the right program
Machine washing is entirely possible, provided these parameters are respected:
- Temperature: 30°C maximum (delicate or synthetic cycle)
- Position: suit turned inside out, fasteners closed
- Spin speed: reduced speed (600 rpm maximum)
- Detergent: mild liquid detergent, no bleach or whitening agents
- Fabric softener: possible in small quantities
Can you hand wash your suit?
Yes, and it's even the gentlest method! Fill a basin with cold or lukewarm water (max 30°C), add a little mild liquid detergent, and gently rub stained areas (collar, cuffs, knees). Rinse thoroughly with clear water and squeeze without wringing.
Drying: the often-neglected step
Drying is a critical step for the longevity of your suit:
- Air dry flat or on a hanger, in the shade — direct sunlight can fade prints.
- Absolutely avoid the dryer: intense heat can deform synthetic materials.
- Never iron directly over prints or logos.
Removing stubborn stains
After a track session, oil, grease, or rubber stains are common. Here's how to treat them:
- Oil/grease stains: apply pure dish soap to the stain before washing, let sit for 15 minutes, then wash normally.
- Rubber stains: gently scrape with a flexible spatula, then treat with a textile stain remover suitable for synthetics.
- Grass stains: a little cold Marseilles soap usually does the trick.
Recommended maintenance frequency
It's not necessary to wash your suit after every outing. Washing every 2 to 3 sessions is generally sufficient. Between sessions, air it out and let it dry if it's damp with sweat. Store it flat or on a hanger, in a dry place, away from direct light.
Maintaining finishes and accessories
Also remember to:
- Lightly lubricate zippers with wax or a special zipper stick.
- Regularly check the condition of seams and reinforcements at the knees and elbows.
- Clean velcro fasteners with a toothbrush to remove lint.
Conclusion
Careful maintenance of your karting suit is the guarantee of equipment that lasts over time and remains impeccable on the track. At NTRB Racewears, our suits are designed to withstand the most demanding conditions — it's up to you to maintain them so they accompany you season after season.
Do you have questions about maintaining your equipment? Contact us, we're here to help.