Proper Care for FR
There are a lot of SPECs out there for proper FR Care.
The simplest thing is to read the label attached to each item you are laundering.
To make it even EASIER for you… We have done some research and made a few phone calls to get the specific do’s and dont’s for taking care of your FR.
DO NOT…
Bleach – sodium hypochlorite, causes exothermic reaction destroying FR Polymer
Hydrogen Peroxide– can destroy the FR polymer and make the garments non-protective
Lye-based soaps – (If lye can decompose a body, imagine what it does to FR…)
Cold Water – Cold Water locks the crud into the material leaving Dirty FR even after washing.
NOT WASH / REWEAR – Dirty FR is by far more dangerous than using the wrong detergent.
Do NOT order FR off of Amazon or thru a company with low costs… there are a few companies out there claiming their products are FR, they are not. Keep in mind reflective strips and labels do not always prove to be 100% truth when it comes to whether or not an item is FR. Always choose a reputable and well-known company for all your FR needs!
It’s OK!!!
Softeners and Dryer Sheets – while specs say this is a NO, our conversations with the most reputable FR Apparel companies all agree. it’s not the end of the world if you use it on accident. The easiest thing you can do to fix it… REWASH without the softeners in Hot water.
Laundry Detergents – while No Phosphate detergents are best, use what you have!
*it is also perfectly OK to wash FR with the rest of your laundry. FR workwear is the same as the PJ’s your kiddos are wearing!
How FR Should Be Laundered!!!
HOT WATER – Hot Water forces crud on the clothing to coagulate and be washed free of the items you are washing. Cold water locks the crud to the material. Always use hot water!
STAINS – it’s work clothes. It gets a new stain daily. Stains do not change the effectiveness of the FR. However, all the products that you use to remove the stains will leave the stains.
Detergent – No Phosphate is best, Tide Gain are the most well known, but there are several including ALDI’s brand is phosphate free, just read the label on the bottle.
DRY – Air Drying or Dryer on LOW/MED setting
Hang it, Fold it, toss it in a bag… as long as it is clean its protection.
Rip the crotch out of your pants… again? See if they will repair! Some of the distributors will offer repairs!