Bike Forums - View Single Post - How far until you need a shower?

07-29-16 | 06:54 AM

#22

Jim from Boston

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Joined: May 2008

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Quote:

Originally Posted by damnable

Hi folks,
After moving house I am again considering cycling to and from work. The trip is now only ~5Km each way, which is a bonus.

I'm sure I can figure out a way to do bring in work clothes etc however I would like your opinion on whether I will need a shower after this trip? I can shower at home before the ride which I have heard still helps. I can also not rush the ride so I don't sweat too much…

Quote:

Originally Posted by phughes

Shower before you leave, get there early enough to wash off in a bathroom and cool down, apply deodorant and go about your day. With that short of a ride, you could simply wait for the sweat to dry naturally and you'd be okay. Enjoy and don't overthink it.

Quote:

Originally Posted by rekmeyata

that's a 66 very short ride, a shower should not be in order. It you're concern just take some baby wipes and wipe down your armpits, neck, chest, and crotch (last of course); then apply some deodorant or antiperspirant if you have a bad case of underarm sweat going on.

I cycle commute at least 14 miles,and longer, one way for fitness, so sweat is unavoidable. I do have shower facilities available, including towels but because I’m very busy on arrival, and want to enjoy the enhanced mentality after the ride, I don’t shower at work.

I have previously posted about my seemingly unique step.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jimfrom Boston

I have shower facilities and can store clean clothes at work, though usually I wear scrub shirts and pants, I don’t have much close interaction with staff, and they would let me know if I offended. But here’s my unique contribution.

I shower in the evening or the morning before the ride, and as my deodorant I use 91% rubbing alcohol. This is used to clean the skin prior to drawing blood and is an effective bactericide. It leaves no scent and evaporates quickly and refreshingly. It can also be used to clean “down there” to prevent lesions from the saddle.

If I have to wear regular clothes though, I always want to take a shower.

I use this situation to gauge effectiveness.

Quote:

Originally Posted by gear64

I've never really asked, but no one's volunteered in a "nothing sacred" small office environment; so I assume I'm not creating too bad of a stink…

And I would be reprimanded too if I offended. I have even gone an extra day, with a second application of alcohol, and a change of clothes. And I disagree with this comment,

Quote:

Originally Posted by noglider

…But I would recommend against alcohol. If you use it, try witch hazel. It has thesame drying and cooling effect, but it doesn't dry your skin. Sometimes I put it on when I'm at home just to cool off, as we don't have A/C at home. It works great.

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