Sources
How does Flame Resistant Clothing work? | | SKANWEAR®
skanwear.com
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1
Care & Maintenance of FR Clothing - Fire Resistant Wear
www.fireresistantwear.com
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2
Fire-Retardant vs. Fire-Resistant Fabrics - Swavelle
www.swavelle.com
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3
Wash & Care Tips for All Your Fire-Resistant Clothes
www.froutlet.com
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4
Answer
To maintain the integrity of flame-resistant (FR) fabrics, follow these key practices:
- Proper washing:
- Use mild, additive-free detergents specifically designed for FR clothing4.
- Wash FR garments separately from other clothes2.
- Use cold water for washing to prevent damage to the fibers4.
- Avoid using bleach, fabric softeners, or starch, as these can impair the FR properties2.
- Drying:
- Air dry FR garments whenever possible4.
- If using a dryer, use low heat settings and avoid over-drying2.
- Never iron FR clothing, as high temperatures can damage the protective properties4.
- Inspection and repair:
- Regularly inspect FR garments for holes, tears, or signs of wear4.
- Repair damaged FR clothing using only flame-resistant fabric and thread2.
- Follow specific guidelines, such as ASTM F 1449, for repairing FR garments2.
- Storage:
- Store FR clothing in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area4.
- Avoid exposure to direct sunlight and extreme temperatures4.
- Keep FR garments away from chemicals that could reduce their flame-resistant properties4.
- Frequency of washing:
- Don't wash FR clothing as frequently as regular clothes to prevent excessive wear4.
- Follow manufacturer guidelines for cleaning frequency4.
- Water quality:
- Avoid washing FR garments in hard water, as mineral buildup can negatively impact FR properties over time2.
- Replacement:
- Replace FR garments when they show signs of significant wear or damage1.
- For chemically treated FR fabrics, be aware that the protective properties may diminish over time and with repeated washings3.
References
1. How does Flame Resistant Clothing work? | | SKANWEAR®2. Care & Maintenance of FR Clothing - Fire Resistant Wear3. Fire-Retardant vs. Fire-Resistant Fabrics - Swavelle4. Wash & Care Tips for All Your Fire-Resistant Clothes5. How to Wash Fire Resistant Clothing? Essential Care Guidelines
Author: Model Apparel
Key insights
- Avoid using bleach and fabric softeners when laundering FR clothing to ensure their protective properties are not compromised.
- Washing FR clothing separately and using basic detergents is best practice for care.