Flame-resistant (FR) clothing is designed to protect workers from heat, flash fires, and electrical arcs. But to ensure it continues to perform at its best, proper laundering and maintenance are absolutely essential. Improper washing can reduce the garment’s protective ability and that’s something you can’t risk on the job.
Here’s your complete guide to caring for your FR apparel the right way.
1. Machine Washing Instructions
When it comes to washing FR garments, temperature and detergent choice matter most.
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Wash Temperature: Always machine wash in warm water at 140°F (60°C) using a regular or gentle cycle.
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Detergent: Choose mild, non-chlorine detergent. Avoid any detergent that contains bleach, fabric softener, or hydrogen peroxide these can break down the flame-resistant treatment.
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Load Care: Wash your FR garments separately from regular clothing, especially items that may carry flammable residues such as oils, greases, or chemicals.
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Zippers & Buttons: Close all fasteners before washing to prevent snagging and wear.
2. Drying Your FR Garments
Drying your FR apparel properly helps maintain both its shape and flame resistance.
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Tumble Dry: Use low heat (up to 160°F / 70°C) to tumble dry your garments.
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Avoid Overheating: High temperatures can weaken fibers and shorten garment life.
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Air Dry: When possible, air drying is the safest option it’s gentle on the fabric and energy-efficient too.
3. What Not to Use on FR Clothing
Some common laundry products can drastically affect the flame-resistant properties of your gear. Avoid the following at all costs:
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❌ Chlorine bleach or any bleach-based detergents
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❌ Fabric softeners, starch, or sizing products
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❌ Hydrogen peroxide or oxygen-based cleaners
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❌ Dry cleaning solvents (unless your garment’s label specifically allows it)
These substances can coat or strip the fibers, reducing the garment’s ability to self-extinguish in case of a fire.
4. Safety Reminder
Failure to launder properly could impact the flame-resistant protection of the fabric.
Always follow manufacturer guidelines to ensure your workwear keeps you safe when it matters most.
Improper laundering even once can compromise the integrity of your FR clothing. Keeping your workwear clean, properly dried, and free of chemical residues ensures consistent safety, comfort, and durability.
5. Additional FR Clothing Care Tips
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Inspect garments regularly for holes, contamination, or excessive wear. Replace damaged items immediately.
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Store FR garments in a clean, dry area away from direct sunlight and flammable materials.
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Avoid ironing at high heat. If needed, use a warm iron without steam.
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Never apply after-market treatments or waterproof coatings unless specifically approved by the manufacturer.
Final Thoughts
Proper wash care isn’t just about keeping your FR clothing clean it’s about maintaining life-saving protection. When you take care of your gear, it takes care of you.
