How to Remove Fiberglass From Clothing

When dealing with fiberglass, it is best to wear old clothes and keep all parts of your skin covered up to avoid exposure. Fiberglass is made from very fine glass fibers and very small pieces of glass can easily find their way into fabrics and skin. If fiberglass happens to get onto clothing and it's important to keep these garments rather than throw them away, you may be able to remove the fiberglass from the clothes.

Instructions

1. Place the affected clothes into the washing machine. It is important not to overcrowd and it is best to wash these clothes separate from other clothing.

2. Wash the clothes in the hottest possible water allowable for the clothes. Read the labels on the clothing carefully.

3. Add a product to the wash that is at least 80 percent pine oil, such as Pine-Sol. This is not recommended for clothing that is made of wool or silk. Add 2 tbs. to the wash cycle and 2 tbs. to the rinse cycle.

4. Clean the barrel of the washing machine before washing another load of clothes by running it on the rinse cycle empty and wiping it out with an old towel.

5. Dry the clothing in the dryer as usual and use caution when emptying the lint trap. Use gloves and place the lint immediately in the trash. Wipe out the dryer with an old cloth after the cycle.

Tips & Warnings

• Duct tape may be effective for a quick temporary fix if necessary. The clothing will still need to be laundered to ensure that all of the glass is gone.

• Depending on the fabric, some clothes may not be able to be salvaged, especially those that are made of mostly silk or wool. Read the care instructions on the tag carefully.