How to wash and take care of your workwear

It is important to always follow the washing instructions for each individual product if you want to ensure that your workwear retains its original functionality and comfort. The washing instructions are always written specifically for the product. It is even more important to follow the washing instructions when dealing with safety functionality in workwear, e.g. when you wash your flame-retardant workwear. If this workwear is washed incorrectly it can put you at risk, since it can reduce the effectiveness of the workwear’s protective properties partially or entirely.

When and how should the workwear be washed?

All workwear should ideally be washed when dirty, but this is even more important with reflective clothing, since dirt reduces the clothing’s reflective effect. Avoid washing workwear with products containing bleach. This applies especially to reflective clothing, as it reduces the clothing’s reflective properties. Follow the dosage guide for your washing product.

Industrial Washing

If your clothing has ‘industrial washing’ on the label, it can be washed in accordance with the guidelines for industrial washing, EN ISO 15797. This standard describes e.g. how the clothing should be washed, how it should be dried and the washing products that may be used.

Close zips, buttons and Velcro strips when you wash your clothing. This reduces wear on the clothing and thereby extends its life, as well as preventing these components from breaking in the wash. Knee pad inserts must be removed before washing, unless they are specifically designed to be able to be washed together with the trousers. Belts and braces must also be removed prior to washing. Empty all pockets of loose objects, as these can make holes in the clothing and damage the washing machine.

See detergents and impregnation here.

Should I use the pre-wash cycle? What about fabric softener?

Workwear that is very dirty can be prewashed, but normally this is not necessary. Avoid leaving the clothing to soak with washing product – undissolved washing product can damage the material. Avoid using fabric softeners completely, as these can impair the material and its functionality. If there is a membrane in the product, using fabric softener will destroy it – and this will not be accepted as a reason for returning the product.

How do I best dry my workwear?

Ideally you should avoid tumble drying your workwear. If you choose to tumble dry your workwear, you must always follow the instructions for tumble drying (see the care label on the clothing).

Ironing

Here you can see the symbols for ironing.