I understand the "our own healthy flora" theory, and I also think that we can sometimes attempt to be too clean for our own good--keeps us from building up our body's own defenses.

Having said that, however, I don't know if I could bear to put on a pair of shorts I'd already worn without washing them. On the other hand, I live in Florida, so maybe my cycling clothes get sweatier and funkier than they would in a drier, cooler climate.

Anyway, I just wanted to mention an idea for machine-washing--in addition to using a mild biodegradable cleaner and the delicate cycle, I put my shorts in a lingerie bag for washing. This saves them from some of the wear-and-tear of machine agitation. And hang dry them every time--the dryer is notoriously tough on delicate fabrics. Though I suppose it might not be a bad idea to run them through the dryer on the air cycle, with no heat.

Just some ideas, though I admit I really like that washing-in-the-shower idea, too.