Taking proper care of your flame-resistant uniform is important to staying safe on the job.
Your flame-resistant uniform is a specialized piece of clothing that requires some specialized care. Some household laundry products will damage the integrity of your uniform, so it’s important to know what’s safe to use and what to avoid.
What Not to Use
There are several laundry options that need to be avoided when washing your flame-resistant uniform. Bleach, fabric softener, and dryer sheets should never be used on your uniform. Detergent with added bleach contains bleach, so it is also off-limits. Fabric softener and dryer sheets are flammable, while bleach can strip the flame-resistant layer of your uniform. You should also avoid any laundry detergents that contain animal fats, such as tallow. This is flammable and will compromise the uniform’s resistance to ignition.
Safe Methods
When washing your flame-resistant uniform, use standard laundry detergent with temperatures that do not exceed 140°F (60°C). Be sure to turn your uniform inside out to keep the flame-resistant layer from streaking or becoming damaged. The washer should be less than half full, or you can wash the uniform by itself. Using conditioned water can preserve the flame-resistant properties of your uniform longer and make it easier to remove any dirt or contaminants from your uniform. For stubborn stains, a stain removal pen is recommended, but make sure it does not contain bleach. An iron on low is okay, but don’t overdry your uniform.
Dry Cleaning
If you’re feeling unsure about the process or the products you have at your disposal, dry cleaning is always an option. Ask your colleagues for a reputable dry cleaner that knows how to handle flame-resistant garments and save yourself the trouble of having to wash them yourself. This can be especially useful if your garment has stubborn contaminants that require removal.
Throw It Out
Sometimes cleaning is not an option and you need to go straight to the garbage can with your uniform. This is the case if your uniform ever gets contaminated with flammable solvents. Any level of ignition risk is to be avoided. This also means your flame-resistant uniform needs to be thrown out as soon as the protective layer is damaged. Even the smallest hole in your defense is a serious safety risk and should not be taken lightly. If you think your uniform’s integrity is compromised, throw it out and get a new one.
Uniform Services from Ace Uniform
To give your business a clean, professional, and cohesive look, rely on Ace Uniform. Whether you need uniforms in the food, automotive, industrial, construction, medical, security, or you-name-it industry, we can provide you with the uniforms you need for the price you want. We can also supply your business with high-quality mats and towels. On top of that, Ace offers facility services that can help keep your business place clean and safe. Give us a call at 1-800-366-1616 or visit us online to learn how we can help meet your needs. Want to get to know us even better? Visit us on social media on Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, and LinkedIn.