How to Clean Flame-Resistant Clothing
Flame-resistant clothing is often worn by people whose work could put them in contact with flames or sparks from equipment they use on the job. Manufacturers of children's pajamas also often use flame-resistant fabrics. Flame-resistant materials are treated with chemicals that help the fabric resist being ignited or extinguish itself if it is exposed to a spark or fire. To maintain their flame-resistant quality, these fabrics must be washed carefully, and certain things must be avoided in the care of these garments. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Clean your flame-resistant clothing on a regular basis, advises Aramark.com, as being heavily soiled can reduce a garment's flame-resistant capability.
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Wash your flame-resistant clothing only with other flame-resistant clothing. You should never wash flame-resistant material with non-flame-resistant laundry, as non-flame-resistant fibers could attach themselves to the flame-resistant materials and thus reduce their protective properties.
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Wash flame-resistant items in your regular laundry detergent as long as it does not have a bleach additive. Most flame-resistant clothing can be washed in warm or cold water, but check the label to be certain.
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Remove stains by using your regular stain-removal formula. Pre-treat heavily soiled or stained clothing and soak as you would any other clothing item.
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Tips & Warnings
Check the care labels on your flame-resistant garments for any special instructions from the manufacturers.
Do not use tallow soap for your detergent, as it contains animal fats and, according to the Automotive Workwear website, may reduce the flame-resistant coating.
Soften your garments, if needed, by occasionally using a dryer softener sheet. Avoid using liquid fabric softeners, as these will reduce the flame-resistant qualities of the garment.
Hydrogen peroxide or chlorine bleach can be harmful to flame-resistant garments, causing the flame-resistant materials to lose their effectiveness.
