HOW TO WASH & MAINTAIN FLAME-RESISTANT CLOTHING THE RIGHT WAY

Flame-resistant (FR) clothing is an essential layer of protection for workers in oil & gas, electrical utilities, construction, and other high-risk industries. But even the best FR garments can lose performance if they’re not maintained properly.
This guide explains how to wash, care for, and extend the life of your FR clothing—while preserving its protective properties.

1. Why Proper Care Matters for FR Clothing

FR garments are engineered to self-extinguish, resist ignition, and reduce burn injuries.
Incorrect washing, bleaching, or drying can:

• Reduce flame-resistant performance

• Damage fabric strength

• Shorten garment lifespan

• Compromise worker safety

Proper maintenance = longer durability + reliable protection.

2. Washing Guidelines for FR Garments

Use mild, industrial-safe detergents
Avoid fabric softeners, conditioners, and high-alkaline detergents—they can leave flammable residues.

Wash with similar garments
Mixing FR and non-FR clothing increases contamination risk.

Avoid chlorine bleach
Bleach weakens fiber integrity and destroys FR properties.

Water Temperature
Warm water (40–60°C) is ideal unless the manufacturer specifies otherwise.

3. Drying & Ironing Recommendations

Tumble dry on low to medium heat
High heat can damage FR fibers and cause shrinkage.

Avoid over-drying
Remove promptly to maintain fabric shape.

Iron on low heat only
High temperatures can compromise FR finishes.

4. Stain Removal: What To Avoid

No oxygen bleach
No fabric softeners
No starch or bar soap
No petroleum-based stain removers

These chemicals may leave flammable residues on FR garments.

5. When to Replace FR Clothing

Replace garments if you notice:

• Tears, holes, or excessive wear

• Burn marks or fabric hardening

• Failed compliance or ATPV degradation

• Contamination by flammable substances (fuel, oil, solvents)

Safety should always outweigh cost.

6. DOMEX SAFETY — Reliable FR Protection for Every Industry

DOMEX SAFETY provides FR, IFR, ARC-rated workwear certified to NFPA 70E, ASTM F1506, EN ISO 11612, IEC 61482-2, ensuring long-lasting protection—even after repeated industrial washing cycles.

Explore our flame-resistant garments designed for durability, comfort, and global compliance.