Care instructions for a heart rate sensor with textile strap
Follow the care instructions to ensure reliable heart rate measurements and prolong the lifespan of the textile strap, which wears out over time like any other piece of clothing. Maintaining the cleanliness of both the sensor and the strap keeps the device in optimal operational condition and comfortable to wear. Also, remember to store the heart rate sensor properly.
Connector
After every use
To prevent snap oxidation and battery drain:
- detach the connector from both strap snaps
- rinse the connector under running water and dry with a soft towel.
When needed
- Clean the connector with a mild soap and water solution. Never use alcohol, disinfectant or any abrasive material (steel, wool or cleaning chemicals).
- Never put the connector in a washing machine or dryer.
Strap
After every use
- Rinse the strap under running water.
- Hang to dry, but avoid direct sunlight.
After every five workouts or at least once a week
- Wash the strap in a washing machine in 40°C / 104 °F. Lower temperatures do not remove impurities from the electrode material, and higher temperature can damage the strap. Do not use bleach or fabric softener.
- Do not soak, iron, dry clean or bleach the strap. Check the label on your strap for detailed washing instructions.
- Using a washing bag is recommended.
- Do not put the strap in a dryer or use drying program of a washing machine.
- Remember to detach the connector from the strap before washing.
- We highly recommend machine washing. However, you can also hand wash the strap using lukewarm water (40°C / 104°F) with a mild dish soap. Rinse the strap thoroughly after washing and hang it to dry, but avoid direct sunlight. Do not use moisturizing soaps or any soaps that include skin softeners, because they can leave residue on the strap. Never use alcohol, disinfectant or any abrasive material (steel, wool or cleaning chemicals).
Other things to take into account
- Do not stretch the strap or bend the electrode areas sharply, as it could damage the strap.
- Wash the strap and the sensor after every use in sea water or in a pool with high chlorine content.
Dirt impairs the elasticity and functioning of the strap. Wash the strap often to maintain its functionality and maximize its lifespan. If desired, the strap can be washed daily.
Remember, the strap doesn’t last forever; it wears out like any other garment you regularly wear and wash. Even when the strap appears to be in good condition, the electrodes inside of it could be worn out, causing unreliable readings. Replacement straps are available as accessories when yours become worn out.
Storing
- Dry and store the heart rate sensor strap and the connector separately to maximize the heart rate sensor battery life.
- Wash the strap and the connector before long-term storage.
- Keep the heart rate sensor in a cool and dry place.
- Do not store the heart rate sensor while it’s wet in non-breathing material, such as a sports bag, to prevent snap oxidation.
- Do not expose the heart rate sensor to direct sunlight for extended periods.