Keeping your wash a safety vest clean and in good condition is an important part of ensuring workplace safety and compliance. Here, learn how to wash safety vests for maximum efficiency, so you can ensure your workers are safe and protected.
Remove any loose dirt or debris before washing.
Before you start washing, it’s important to make sure any dirt or debris is removed from your safety vests. You can do this simply by brushing or shaking off any visible dirt. This can help to prevent the dirt from clogging up washer cycles and damaging the fabric of your vests.
Pre-treat any stubborn stains with a mild detergent and warm water.
Before you start washing, it’s important to pre-treat any stubborn stains with a mild detergent and warm water. If a stain doesn’t come out after one or two rounds of cleaning, use a damp cloth and a bit of gentle detergent to scrub away at the stain until it disappears. Be sure to use tepid (lukewarm) water and avoid using hot or boiling water as this can lead to the weakened fabric.
Check the care label for laundry instructions, if applicable.
Most safety vests should have labels that indicate their washing instructions. Look out for symbols such as a sink or a wash tub, indicating the garment is machine-washable in lukewarm water, and an iron symbol with a line through it — indicating dry-cleaning not recommended. When following the label’s instructions, be mindful of any further warnings such as don’t bleach or tumble dry the vest; and be sure to use a mild detergent.
Clean the safety vest in water no hotter than 130°F (54°C).
The use of warm or hot water may damage the fabric, while cold water will fail to remove dirt, fades and stains. If you are washing your vest in a machine, opt for a gentle cycle and use a mild detergent. Do not add any bleach when washing your safety vests! Chlorine-based products can cause discoloration, weakening and fading of fabric colors.
Wash with a pH-neutral laundry detergent and lukewarm water, taking care to avoid bleach or fabric softener additives.
Use a detergent designed specifically for washing synthetic fabrics, and make sure it is free of any abrasive particles, bleach or fabric softener additives that may damage the safety vest’s material. Following the care instructions on the vest will ensure maximum cleaning results and prevent color or shape loss. Wash your vests on their own in lukewarm water to avoid damage to other articles of clothing.
