How to Clean Nomex Firefighting Gear

Firefighter gear is made of Nomex material because it is heat and flame resistant

Nomex is a type of fabric that is both heat and flame resistant. It is used to dress firefighters and other professionals who work with inflammable chemicals. Because Nomex material serves a special purpose, it must be cared for in a very specific way. Low temperatures and low alkalinity are necessary when washing Nomex fabric.

Things You'll Need

• Washing machine
• Dryer
• Laundry detergent
• Oxygen bleach

Instructions

1. Place the Nomex pieces in the washing machine by themselves. They should not be washed with other fabrics.

2. Set the water temperature to low. Nomex cannot be washed in water that is hotter than 140 degrees Fahrenheit.

3. Add regular home laundry detergent. Use oxygen bleach if you need to bleach out stains. Do not use chlorine bleach.

4. Place the Nomex gear in the dryer once the washing machine has run its cycle. Set the dryer to a low heat setting.

5. Run the dryer run for a short period of time. Nomex dries quickly and does not require an excessive amount of time in the dryer.

6. Remove the gear from the dryer promptly to prevent wrinkling.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not use fabric softener on Nomex fabric.

References

• Coverall Sale: Cleaning Nomex Fabric