Although nowadays there are more and more Heart Rate Monitors & Sports Watches that incorporate the optical pulse meter on the wrist as in the case of the Garmin Forerunner 235 or the TomTom Spark Cardio Music models, there are still many users who use a heart rate monitor with its respective heart rate band to measure the effort they make when running, swimming or cycling and thus optimize their respective training sessions.
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That is why in this article we want to focus on an aspect that will surely be extremely useful for all those athletes who still use a heart rate monitor with a chest strap: the cleaning and correct maintenance of the heart rate measuring belt.
This complement, essential for the correct measurement of heart rate in most Heart Rate Monitors & Sports Watches that are still working today, gradually acquire dirt by the accumulation of sweat generated during physical exercise and this can affect their optimal performance.
Although heart rate bands are designed to withstand a certain amount of sweat, as dirt accumulates in the area of the sensors and electrodes, the performance of the same is diminished when you exercise. So if you want to prolong the life of your heart rate monitor, the best thing to do is to maintain and care for your heart rate monitor.
First of all, the best thing to do is to wash the chest strap with a little water when you return from your training session. Before doing so, make sure to remove the core that contains the electronic components and the battery. Now you only have to rinse the band with a little cold water to remove the sweat.
Can I put the chest strap in the washing machine?
The manufacturers recommend a more thorough wash every ten to twelve uses, something as simple as putting your chest strap in the washing machine. However, first check the instructions to be sure (not all bands support this type of machine washing) and remember to disassemble the core or central core.
From runnea.com we recommend that you wash it with a program that does not exceed 40 degrees Celsius temperature, always fastened and, if possible, inside a hairnet. Use a small amount of detergent and do not use fabric softeners or similar products. Otherwise, the chest strap will stop working. Afterwards, hang it out to air dry.
Cleaning chest straps with integrated core
In the case of chest straps with integrated core (without the possibility of disassembly) such as the Garmin HRM Tri and Garmin HRM Swim, the American manufacturer recommends washing them by hand to remove chlorine from the pool and del mar salt, discouraging machine washing. Always use cold water and a small amount of neutral soap.
Tips to extend the life of your chest strap
If you want to extend the life of your chest strap, in addition to cleaning it frequently, here are some tips to make it last as long as possible:
- If you are not going to use for a few days, we recommend that you disassemble the core. This way, the battery will last longer.
- When you are going to store it, try not to roll it up or fold it. Hang it on a hanger in your closet.
- In any case, avoid leaving your chest strap in the sun for hours.
*Sources consulted: Garmin, Polar, Suunto, palabraderunner.com
