There are numerous factors to consider and I'm not sure what is most important.

Firstly I machine wash my cycling gear in warm water and then preferable dry them outside in the sun with the chamois exposed to get maximum sunlight. Thats the best way to keep the chamois healthy.

Secondly I'm not looking for thick padding in a chamois. I don't think it helps. What I'm looking for is one that doesn't have seams in the wrong places (right under your sit bones). I have some Nalini bibshorts with a seam right down the middle but this seam causes no problems at all.

I think one of the most important factors for avoiding saddle sores is to keep the boys out of the way. I'm not sure how they do it but Nalini bib-knicks are particularly good at doing this and I find them the most comfortable all round.

Regards, Anthony