Quote Originally Posted by Cornholio View Post
Thank you for this marvellously informative thread!

I know that washing machines have been mentioned a couple of times. Have you had enough experience to know if the machine does the straps any harm?

Have a 1943 and a 1944 on the way, and don't want to damage them! The website says hand wash only, but maybe a gentle cycle will be ok?

The only canvas strap that I have at the moment is this one from CWC. Have been putting it in a 30 degree wash with with Nikwax, not detergent, and it seems to be surviving. However, it doesn't get worn very often.

Cheers!

I can't really comment on washing the straps long term in a washing machine. All I ever do is run a tap to the temp I wash my hands at, work up a lather with liquid antibacterial soap (the "Cien" brand from Lidl) and wash the already soaked strap between my hands. Then a good rinse and a pat with the towel and out on the washing line. As far as I can tell this works fine with no problems.