July 7, 2025
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To give your workwear a longer life, proper washing and care are essential. Not only does this maintain the garment's durability, but it is also crucial for preserving its visibility and functionality, especially for hi-vis gear. Here are some tips from the J-Long team to help you extend the lifespan of your high-vis workwear and PPE.
Always read the garment care instructions before washing. The specific instructions for washing and drying can vary by material, so be sure to follow the guidance on the care label.
It is crucial to remove stains not to affect the garment's certification. To treat a stain, rub it with a stain remover that is marked as safe for bright colors and does not contain bleach, then wash as usual.
Always use a detergent that is suitable for both the washing temperature and the material of your garment. The required detergent will vary depending on the fabric; for instance, soft shell require a specific detergent. It is also especially important to note that using the wrong detergent can cause reflective tapes to lose their reflective properties.
Never use fabric softener when washing your workwear and PPE. It plugs up the pores of the garment, causing it to lose breathability and potentially compromising the flame-retardant properties of flame-protective clothing.
Before putting your clothes in the wash, be sure to close all zips and fasten any buttons. Secure all velcro straps, as they can ruin the fabric. For added protection, turn the garment inside out; this will not only help prevent damage to the outside but also ensure that body odours and oils from your skin wash away more easily.
To maintain certification, wash certified items only with other certified apparel. Always wash similar colours together, turn them inside out, and follow all instructions on the care label. Wash workwear separately from personal clothes to prevent cross-contamination.
It is best to let workwear hang or air dry, keeping it out of direct sunlight or other sources of UV light. If a garment can be tumble dried, use the lowest heat setting or a no-heat option. Be sure to remove the garment as soon as the cycle is complete to prevent the reflective tape from creasing. Once dry, place your hi-vis jacket on a hanger until its next use.
Store workwear in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and material degradation. For items with reflective tape or trims, avoid folding them tightly, as this can cause creasing or cracking.
At J-Long, we offer reflective trims that meet a wide range of industry standards and we are one of the few bluesign® approved trim suppliers. Our team of in-house experts, with over 40 years of experience, stays constantly updated on industry changes to ensure we remain compliant. Our Sales Director, Kim Christensen, a long-standing member of CEN/TC162/WG7, the standardization committee for high-visibility protective clothing. Discover more here: https://www.j-long.com/workwear-trims.
