How to Wash FR Clothing Properly (Complete Care Guide)

How to Wash FR Clothing (Complete Care Guide for Flame Resistant Garments)

Flame resistant (FR) clothing is designed to protect workers from fire hazards, electrical arcs, and flash fires. But maintaining that protection depends heavily on how the garments are cleaned.

Many people assume FR clothing requires special handling—or worse, that washing it can reduce its effectiveness. In reality, proper washing is not only safe, it’s essential.

This guide explains exactly how to wash FR clothing correctly, what to avoid, and how to extend the lifespan of your gear while maintaining its protective performance.

Can You Wash FR Clothing?

Yes, FR clothing can—and should—be washed regularly.

Washing does not remove flame resistance when done correctly. Most modern FR garments are either inherently flame resistant or treated with durable finishes that are designed to withstand repeated laundering.

However, improper washing can leave residues or damage fibers, which may reduce the garment’s effectiveness over time.

According to NFPA guidelines, proper care and maintenance are critical to ensuring FR garments continue to perform as intended in hazardous environments.

How to Wash FR Clothing (Step-by-Step Guide)

Follow these steps to safely clean your flame resistant garments without compromising protection:

1. Check the Care Label First

Always start by reading the manufacturer’s care instructions.

Different FR fabrics (cotton blends, treated fabrics, or inherently flame-resistant fibers) may have specific washing requirements.

2. Choose the Right Detergent

Use a mild, standard detergent without additives.

Avoid heavy-duty or specialty detergents that contain:

• Fabric softeners

• Optical brighteners

• Bleaching agents

These can leave residues on the fabric and interfere with flame resistance.

3. Use the Correct Water Temperature

Wash FR clothing in warm water (typically around 105°F / 40°C).

• Avoid hot water unless specified

• Cold water may not effectively remove oils or contaminants

Proper cleaning is important because flammable substances left on the garment can increase risk.

4. Select the Proper Wash Cycle

Use a normal or gentle cycle, depending on fabric type.

• Avoid overly aggressive cycles that may wear down fibers

• Do not overload the washing machine

FR garments should be washed separately from heavily soiled or non-FR items to prevent contamination.

5. Drying FR Clothing Safely

Tumble dry on low heat or line dry.

• Avoid high heat settings

• Remove garments promptly to reduce wrinkles

Excessive heat can weaken fibers over time and shorten the lifespan of the garment.

What Detergent Should You Use for FR Clothing?

Choosing the right detergent is one of the most important parts of FR clothing care.

✔ Recommended:

• Mild liquid detergents

• Standard household detergents (without additives)

❌ Avoid:

• Fabric softeners

• Chlorine bleach

• Starch or sizing agents

These substances can coat the fabric with a thin layer, which may interfere with its ability to self-extinguish or resist ignition.

Organizations like OSHA emphasize that contaminated or improperly maintained protective clothing can reduce worker safety in hazardous environments.

What to Avoid When Washing FR Clothing

Improper care is one of the most common reasons FR garments lose effectiveness. Here are the key mistakes to avoid:

❌ Fabric Softener

Why it’s a problem:
Leaves a residue layer on fibers

Risk:
May reduce flame resistance performance

✔ What to do instead:
Use detergent only, no additives

❌ Bleach (Chlorine or Oxygen)

Why it’s a problem:
Breaks down fabric structure and chemical treatments

Risk:
Weakens protective properties

✔ What to do instead:
Use non-bleach stain removal methods if needed

❌ Starch or Sizing

Why it’s a problem:
Adds a flammable coating to the garment

Risk:
Increases ignition potential

✔ What to do instead:
Avoid completely

❌ High Heat Drying

Why it’s a problem:
Damages fibers over time

Risk:
Shortens garment lifespan

✔ What to do instead:
Use low heat or air dry

How Often Should You Wash FR Clothing?

FR clothing should be washed as needed based on exposure and use, not necessarily after every wear.

Consider washing when:

• The garment is visibly dirty

• It has been exposed to oil, grease, or chemicals

• It carries odors from the work environment

Leaving flammable contaminants on FR clothing can increase hazard risk, so cleanliness is essential.

At the same time, excessive washing can accelerate wear, so balance is key.

What Is FR Clothing (Quick Overview)

FR clothing (flame resistant clothing) is designed to resist ignition and prevent flames from spreading.

It is commonly used in industries such as:

• Electrical work

• Oil and gas

• Construction

• Manufacturing

These garments are an important part of personal protective equipment (PPE) and are often required under workplace safety standards.

FAQ: Washing and Caring for FR Clothing

Does washing FR clothing remove flame resistance?

No. Proper washing does not remove flame resistance. Most FR garments are designed to maintain their protective properties through repeated laundering.

Can you use regular detergent on FR clothing?

Yes, as long as it does not contain additives like fabric softeners, bleach, or brighteners.

Can FR clothing be dry cleaned?

Some FR garments can be dry cleaned, but it depends on the fabric. Always check the care label before doing so.

How long does FR clothing last?

The lifespan depends on usage, washing frequency, and work conditions. Proper care can significantly extend durability.

Can FR clothing shrink?

Yes, especially cotton-based FR garments. Following proper washing and drying instructions helps minimize shrinkage.