Aug 21

Aug 21 Biker Babe Essentials: Staying Fresh and Clean While Riding

On the first of the Biker Babe Essentials series, we talked about the importance of skin protection while riding bikes and yes, she’s a Rider, she’s cute, keeping that skin in tact, however, there may be one thing even more important as a girl that rides bikes…

Hygiene Tips and Must-Have Products While Riding aroundLA

Living the bike life in L.A. is all about balance—embracing the freedom of riding while staying fresh and confident wherever you go. Whether you’re a commuter, a casual rider, or a fitness enthusiast, hygiene is key, especially when you're sweating it out for miles. As a girl that bikes, it’s essential to keep up that fresh and clean vibe, no matter how intense the ride. In this post, we’re diving into the best hygiene products and tips to keep you feeling and smelling great, even after long Los Angeles rides.

Why Hygiene Matters for Biker Babes
Riding around L.A. isn’t just about the thrill of the journey; it’s also about feeling good while doing it. Sweat, odors, and that not-so-fresh feeling can creep in after hours on the road. For those of us who value staying clean and feminine even while being active, a strong hygiene routine is non-negotiable. Plus, it’s not just about us—no one wants to be the smelly person in line at the café or on the train after a commute. Let’s get into how you can keep that biker babe freshness going strong, no matter the distance.

Note: Links to products will follow in the next section, but I promise I’m not trying to sell you anything. I’m only even including links and styling this blog post in the format of an affiliate blog post to practice for when I am in somebody’s affiliate program earning a couple of nickels to rub together. Even then, when I will have potential to earn a commission, I’m not telling you about anything I don’t believe in, unless I’m saying, “oh, uhnt uhn, I don’t believe in this.” I’m mentioning the products below because that’s what happens to be in my hygiene routine product rotation at the moment and we’re talking about hygiene as an active girly right now. I never want to be one of those “ou let me talk about this to get commission” girls; no ma’am, I want to mention what naturally comes up in conversation because I actually use it (not I was paid to say I did).

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Essential Hygiene Products to Keep You Fresh
Maintaining hygiene while biking is all about having the right products in your kit. Below are some of my go-to picks, each one geared toward keeping you fresh and confident during your ride and long after.

Intimate Wipes (e.g., Honey Pot):
Intimate wipes are an absolute must for staying fresh, especially after long rides. I carry individually wrapped wipes by Honey Pot, which are pH-balanced, gentle, and effective for a quick clean-up. Even though the brand recently sold out to a larger company, I still appreciate the quality and convenience of these wipes. They’re perfect for that quick freshen-up before heading into a café or meeting up with friends. I’m upset that Honey Pot Co. sold out to the man [sigh], but I suppose minority-founded is better than nothing?? It was a small-business at some point.. I suppose that counts for something.. Until the next small-business that I can support instead comes before my eyes. Here are the Normal Feminine Travel Wipes that I buy… for now.
Shower in a Bottle (e.g., Bath & Body Works):
Dang, why do they discontinue the good products?! Bath and Body Works had an On-the-Go Active Skincare collection that was that girl! For those times when a full shower isn’t possible, an active skincare product like Bath & Body Works’ “Shower in a Bottle” is a lifesaver. Paired with their matching disposable wipes, honey, you were good to go, feeling clean and smelling amazing in seconds. Whether you’re heading straight to brunch after a ride or popping into a store, a little one-two such as this is a must-have. Who knows when Bath and Body Works stopped selling that Shower in a Bottle product line.. Child, I’m not an always-in-the-mall girl because… capitalism. I tend to do well with not falling into the trap of overconsumption and not being in the stores all the time is one way that helps, but if I would’ve known Bath and Body Works would discontinue one of my favorite products, I may have stocked up a little bit — it seems that someone else did! Grab this fresh pick-me-up active skincare on eBay, there are quite a few different sellers! (Or, don’t.. just take a mental note for when you see a similar product and are in need of it; I can let y’all know if I find another fav.)
Hand Cream and Scented Roll-On Oil (e.g., Being Frenshe):
After washing your hands a million times a day, dry skin can be a real annoyance. I always carry a small hand cream and matching roll-on oil perfume... That’s not the truth, I switch it up depending on what’s in arm reach as I’m flying out of the door. Today, I forgot altogether, forcing me to drop into Target, where I picked up a tube of hand cream and tiny roll-on parfum with a delightful, yet subtle natural lavender scent. Lavender is a favorite of mine because it’s soothing and leaves a lasting, pleasant scent. Keeping your hands moisturized and lightly fragranced makes a world of difference in how you feel. Shop Frenshe’s Lavender Cloud Collection exclusively at Target.
Deodorant Wipes and Sprays (e.g., EO Products):
Deodorant wipes are perfect for both refreshing and deodorizing on the go. EO deodorant wipes and sprays use essential oils to tackle odor without blocking your pores. These are game changers for staying fresh after a sweaty ride. And really, for most rides, if you showered before and gave the armpits a spritz or two of EO’s essential oil spray, there probably won’t be anything to wipe with the deodorant wipe. Guess what fragrance I get in the all-natural deodorizer duo? Yep, calming french lavender is thee one! When I’m on a scent-kick, I get all my products, including home refreshers (wall plug-in, etc.) and bubble bath in the same fragrance until I run out of them all and transition to the next fragrance to tickle my fancy at the time. (It’s a whole new season by the time I switch fragrances because what I will do is use every last drip drop of a product.). She’s cute, she’s fun, she’s fit… (that was my saying for my Rider cap).. aaaaand, she’s fresh! Stay fresh and natural with these organic deodorants from EO.

Putting It All Together: How to Build Your Hygiene Kit
Staying clean and confident while riding is all about having a well-stocked hygiene kit that fits into your lifestyle. I recommend packing compact, travel-sized versions of your favorite products in a fanny pack or bike bag. The key items? Intimate wipes, deodorant wipes, a small hand cream, and a portable fragrance. Organize your kit so everything is easy to grab when you need it. You never know when you’ll want to freshen up before heading into a restaurant or meeting someone after a ride.

Routine Tips for Freshness on Any Ride
Hygiene for bikers isn’t just about the products—it’s about establishing a routine. Before you start your ride, use a deodorant spray that works with your body’s natural processes. After your ride, freshen up with wipes and reapply your favorite fragrance (preferably a product that’s natural and mild; the idea is fresh, not masking with some strong perfume that doesn’t match the occasion). I don’t know about you, but feeling fresh puts me in a good mood. Even a quick freshen-up session in the ladies’ room can keep you feeling great for the rest of the day.

Remember, these tips apply to all sports and outdoor activities, so whether you’re cycling, running, or doing anything else active, staying clean is always a priority. And while I’m speaking to my fellow biker babes, guys—take note too. We all benefit from good hygiene.

Here at aroundLAwithTK, we’re all about making your bike life easier and more enjoyable. Other writers have readers, we have Riders — she’s cute, she’s fun, she’s fit! For more tips and inspiration on active transportation and L.A. living, subscribe to the aroundLA newsletter and follow @aroundLAwithTK on Instagram to stay connected! Lifestyle advice such as these personal hygiene essentials aren’t just for bikers—they’re for anyone who values staying fresh and confident while being active.

Note: While I’m not currently earning money from the links shared here, if you appreciate the content and would like to treat me to a coffee, my Venmo is @tekeyakrystal.