Yes, you can wash a hi-vis (high-visibility) garment. Hi-vis garments are designed to be durable and able to withstand regular washing.
Dos and don’ts of washing hi vis
Dos
- Do pre-treat stains before washing.
- Do wash hi-vis garments separately or with other hi-vis items to prevent color bleeding.
- Do use a gentle or delicate cycle on your washing machine.
- Do use a mild, non-bleaching detergent.
- Do wash hi-vis garments in cold water.
- Do air dry hi-vis garments or use a low heat setting if tumble drying.
- Do store hi-vis garments properly when not in use to prevent damage.
Don’ts
- Don’t use harsh detergents or bleach, as they can degrade the reflective properties of the fabric.
- Don’t wash hi-vis garments with other non-hi-vis clothing items.
- Don’t use fabric softeners, as they can leave a residue that diminishes visibility.
- Don’t wash hi-vis garments in hot water, as it can damage the fabric and affect visibility.
- Don’t wring or twist hi-vis garments excessively while washing or drying.
- Don’t expose hi-vis garments to direct sunlight or high heat during drying.
- Don’t iron hi-vis garments unless explicitly instructed by the manufacturer.
5-step guide
Step 1
Read the care label
Before washing your hi-vis garment, carefully read and follow the care instructions provided on the garment’s label. The manufacturer’s guidelines may include specific instructions tailored to the particular fabric and reflective materials used in your hi-vis garment.
Step 2
Pre-treat stains
If there are any stains on the hi-vis garment, pre-treat them before washing. Use a stain remover or spot-cleaning solution and gently rub it into the stained area. Allow the stain remover to sit for a few minutes, following the instructions on the product.
Step 3
Wash separately
To avoid color bleeding and potential damage to the reflective properties, it’s best to wash hi-vis garments separately or with other hi-vis items. This ensures that the colors stay vibrant and the reflective materials are not compromised.
Step 4
Use mild detergent and cold water
Choose a mild, non-bleaching detergent specifically formulated for delicate or hi-vis fabrics. Add the appropriate amount of detergent to the washing machine, based on the manufacturer’s recommendations and the load size. Select the cold water setting on your washing machine. Hot water can damage the fabric and affect the visibility properties of the hi-vis garment.
Step 5
Air dry or tumble dry on low
After washing, it’s best to air dry hi-vis garments to prevent potential damage caused by high heat from dryers. Hang the garment up or lay it flat on a clean surface away from direct sunlight. If you prefer using a dryer, select the low heat or delicate setting to minimize heat exposure.
FAQs
Can I wash my hi-vis garment with other clothing items?
It’s generally recommended to wash hi-vis garments separately or with other hi-vis items. Mixing them with other clothing items, especially those that may have zippers, buttons, or rough surfaces, can cause abrasion and potentially damage the reflective materials. Washing them separately helps to preserve their visibility properties and prevents color bleeding.
Can I use fabric softener when washing hi-vis garments?
It’s best to avoid using fabric softeners when washing hi-vis garments. Fabric softeners can leave a residue on the fabric, which may diminish the visibility and reflective properties of the garment. Instead, opt for a mild detergent specifically formulated for hi-vis or delicate fabrics.
Can I tumble dry my hi-vis garment?
While air drying is generally recommended for hi-vis garments to prevent potential damage from heat exposure, some hi-vis garments may be safe for tumble drying on a low heat or delicate setting. However, it’s important to check the care label and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Excessive heat can affect the reflective materials, so it’s best to err on the side of caution and air dry whenever possible.
Final thoughts ðŸ’
When washing hi-vis garments, it is important to follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. It is generally recommended to wash hi-vis garments separately or with other hi-vis items to avoid color bleeding and potential damage to the reflective materials. It is best to use a mild, non-bleaching detergent and wash the garments in cold water to preserve their visibility properties.
Avoid using fabric softeners as they can diminish visibility. While air drying is preferable, some hi-vis garments may be safe for tumble drying on low heat, but it’s essential to check the care label. Always refer to the specific instructions for your hi-vis garment to ensure proper care and maintenance.
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