Heart Rate Monitor Reaction?

[Catrin]

It isn't a heat rash - perhaps it is time to take that grungy toothbrush and scrub the connectors as well. The strap is fabric (sort of) and problem isn't under the woven parts which are to either side of the contacts and are an inch or so long. The small blisters mirror the exact contact points on top of the strap, so something is going on. I will twist the strap around for my ride late this afternoon, and do some serious soaking and cleaning tonight. Hopefully I've some rubbing alcohol and clean the transmitter itself.

[Catrin]

I twisted the strap/monitor portion around to my left side for my ride today and no problems. Marni probably nailed it with her suggestion that perhaps my usual washing treatment isn't getting all of the salt out. The strap goes in the washing machine every two weeks and gets rinsed after every use but that doesn't mean all of the salt/perspiration is getting removed. Hard to see how not...but something is causing this and that is the easiest explanation.

The contacts don't touch my skin so I can't see how it is some new allergic reaction. I appreciate the comments!

[Catrin]

I've figured out that this likely has nothing to do with the HRM, because I get the same reaction when I am not wearing it Unsure right now if it is a reaction to the salt in my sweat (and now it is extending along the curve between my girls), or if it is simply that I am getting a reaction from the sports wash I've been using. That area probably is the one area where the straps get the most contact/movement against my skin...

So I think I will set aside the sports wash for now and use the powder Arm and Hammer detergent. I don't think I CAN get out of my sweaty clothes more quickly than I do...maybe use powder? It isn't a pretty sight but it doesn't really bother me... It does seem odd that this is a problem now, it isn't like I've not been working out for a few years now. I did, however, become more consistent about using the Sports Wash on my cycling and workout clothes a few months back.

Have others this problem?