How to Wash Safety Vests | High Visibility

Most hi-vis vests and jackets are made of polyester or polyester blends, which are sensitive to heat and harsh detergents.

When machine-washing:

• Read the care label first. If instructions differ from general advice, follow the label.
• Turn garments inside out to protect reflective surfaces.
• Empty all pockets and close all zippers before washing.
• Use cold or warm water (never hot) on a delicate cycle .
• Choose a mild, neutral detergent —avoid anything with bleach or fabric softener.
• Wash separately from rough fabrics like denim to prevent abrasion.

For drying:

• Tumble dry on low or no heat only if the tag allows it.
• Remove promptly from the dryer to avoid heat damage and creasing.
• Line dry when in doubt—this helps extend the life of the reflective materials.

Prefer to hand wash? It’s a great way to preserve the integrity of your safety vest:

• Use cold water and mix in a mild detergent before placing the garment in the water.
• Soak for 20–30 minutes .
• Gently rub with your hands or a soft brush, focusing on dirt-prone areas like collars.
• Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap.
• Hang to dry in a shaded area to avoid fading from direct sunlight.

Washing your high-visibility clothing correctly is more than a matter of cleanliness—it’s about safety:

• Preserves reflectivity: Dirt, grease, and harsh detergents can break down the glass beads and adhesives used in reflective tape.
• Maintains color brightness: Fluorescent dyes fade quickly if exposed to heat or chemicals.
• Extends lifespan: Many hi-vis garments are rated for a limited number of washes (e.g., 25–50). Proper care slows wear and helps you get the most out of your investment.

To keep your gear performing like new, steer clear of these mistakes:

• Not pre-treating stains: Dirt and grease can act like sandpaper. Gently treat stains with a soft cloth and mild detergent before washing.
• Using bleach or fabric softener: These products can ruin reflective tape and fluorescent dyes.
• Washing with rough items: Denim, zippers, and velcro can scratch or peel off reflective film.
• Washing with hot water: Heat can cause reflective adhesives to break down and dye to bleed.
• Wringing out vests: This damages the delicate materials—let them drip dry instead.
• Ignoring washing instructions: Always check the care tag for specifics on temperature and drying.

• Track your washes —many safety vests have a maximum wash count.
• Use stain removers like OxiClean or Fels Naptha for grease and grime.
• Avoid direct sunlight when drying to protect fluorescent pigments.
• Replace vests once they’ve lost brightness or reflectivity, even if they look clean

By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure your high-visibility safety vests and jackets stay effective, clean, and compliant. Proper washing not only extends the life of your gear but also keeps you safe on the job.

Need replacement vests or jackets? Shop high-quality, durable safety apparel with easy care instructions at Saraglove