FR Care

Laundry Care

1. Washing Instructions: Wash the garments separately in a normal or cotton cycle at temperatures up to 140ºF (60ºC). Using any typical home laundry detergent is acceptable, but avoid using soap containing animal fats (tallow soap).

2. Precautions During Washing: Turn the garments inside out before washing to reduce streaking from abrasion. Fill the washer no more than 2/3 full and use a high water level to ensure thorough cleaning.

3. Avoiding Bleach and Softeners: Do not use chlorine bleach or liquid non-chlorine bleach, as they can degrade the FR performance of the fabric. Similarly, avoid using starch or fabric softeners, as they can coat fibers and compromise FR properties or serve as fuel in case of garment ignition.

4. Water Quality Considerations: Using conditioned or soft water can help improve the removal of contaminants from garments. Hard water can lead to the buildup of calcium and magnesium salts, which can serve as fuel if exposed to ignition sources.

5. Soil Removal: Ensure that all soils and contaminants are completely removed during the wash process. This may require the use of stain removal products or presoaking garments before washing. Hot water can enhance detergent effectiveness in soil removal.

6. Drying and Ironing: Avoid over-drying garments, as excessive heat can damage fabric fibers. If ironing is necessary, use the Permanent Press/Low setting to avoid damaging the fabric.

7. Manufacturer Instructions: Always consult the garment manufacturer for detailed instructions and precautions specific to your FR garments.

By following these guidelines, you can effectively maintain the protective properties of FR garments and ensure the safety of workers in environments where flame and heat hazards are present.