Proper care of high-visibility clothing affects safety, garment life and costs over time. Dirt, improper washing or careless maintenance can quickly reduce visibility and thus the level of protection required by the Swedish Work Environment Authority's regulations.
High visibility clothing is part of personal protective equipment (PPE) that should make the wearer visible in all light conditions. When dirt, oil or dust covers the fluorescent surfaces, light reflection is reduced and the garment loses its protective function.
The Swedish Work Environment Authority requires high-visibility garments to meet visibility classes according to EN ISO 20471. To maintain these values, garments must be washed regularly and according to the manufacturer's instructions.
The wrong detergents, especially those containing bleach, can damage the reflective material. As a result, the reflectors lose their brightness and no longer reflect light properly.
Therefore, workers should avoid strong chemicals and use mild, approved agents instead.
Safety clothing is often exposed to heavy wear in construction, transportation and industrial environments. Dirt and particles left behind wear down the fibers and shorten the life of the garment.
Regular cleaning reduces wear and preserves both color and material strength. The correct washing temperature is crucial.
Too much heat can destroy the fluorescent color, while too low a temperature will not remove oil residues. It is therefore important to follow the washing instructions carefully.
An example of a recommended routine:
| Moment | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Sorting | Wash high visibility clothing separately from dark garments |
| Temperature | Follow washing instructions, often 40-60 °C |
| Detergent | Use half-dose without bleach |
| Drying | Air dry to reduce wear and tear |
Correct laundering reduces the need to replace high-visibility garments prematurely. Companies that maintain their workwear correctly save both material costs and time.
Washing according to recommendations extends the useful life of clothes, reducing textile waste and energy consumption. This benefits both the economy and the environment.
In addition, industrial laundries specializing in PPE can optimize the washing process to meet safety requirements every time.
Careful preparation before washing extends the life of high-visibility clothing and preserves the visibility of reflectors. Proper handling will reduce the risk of damage, discoloration and deterioration.
Each garment should be inspected before washing. Worn or damaged reflectors can reduce visibility and should be repaired or replaced before use.
Also check seams, pockets and fabric surfaces for tears or wear. Reflective materials should be free of cracks and dullness.
If the reflectors have lost their shine, it may indicate that the garment is nearing the end of its life. A simple check in bright light will show if the reflectors are still reflecting effectively.
It is also important to check the washing instructions on the label. They indicate the maximum temperature allowed and the number of washes the garment is tested for.
Following these instructions will ensure that the visibility certification of the high-visibility garment is maintained.
All fasteners should be closed before washing. Otherwise, Velcro, buttons and zippers can wear out fabric and reflectors during machine washing.
An open zipper can also get caught in other garments and cause tears. For Velcro, it is recommended to attach it to the opposite side so that it does not collect lint or damage other surfaces.
This also reduces the risk of the Velcro losing its grip after repeated washing. For garments with adjustable cuffs or hoods, these should also be closed.
This helps the garment keep its shape and reduces stress on seams and reflective materials.
Visible dirt such as mud, oil or asphalt should be removed before washing. Otherwise, coarse dirt can spread in the machine and get stuck in reflective surfaces, reducing the light output.
Use a soft brush or damp cloth to gently remove particles. For oil stains, a mild pre-wash can be used, but avoid products with bleach or solvents.
They can damage the fluorescent colors. A brief summary of recommended methods:
| Type of soil | Recommended action |
|---|---|
| Mud/dust | Brush off dry dirt before machine washing |
| Oil stains | Spot treat with mild detergent |
| Paint or asphalt | Gently scrape off residues, avoid strong detergents |
Thorough cleaning before washing will help preserve the function and appearance of your high-visibility clothing for longer.
Correct washing and care will help high-visibility clothing retain its visibility, fit and protective function for longer. It requires care in the choice of detergent, temperature and handling in the washing machine to avoid damage to reflective and fluorescent materials.
The manufacturer's washing instructions specify exactly how the garment should be cleaned to maintain the certified protection class. The label indicates the maximum temperature allowed, the drying method and whether the garment can be dry cleaned.
Warning clothing should be washed separately from dark or oily workwear. Dirt, grease and paint transfer can impair the light transmission of reflective clothing.
Most manufacturers recommend turning garments inside out before washing to protect reflective tape and prints. Overdosing of detergents should be avoided as residues can form a film on the fabric and reduce visibility.
A simple rule of thumb is to use half the dosage for lightly soiled garments.
| Checkpoint | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Sorting | Wash high visibility clothing separately |
| Preparation | Turn the garments inside out |
| Detergent | No bleach or fabric softener |
| Drying | Air dry or low heat |
A gentle detergent without bleach or optical brighteners is essential. These substances break down the fluorescent pigment and reduce the brightness of the garment.
Liquid detergent often works better than powder because it dissolves faster and leaves less residue. Overly perfumed products should be avoided, especially in professional use where odors can disturb the working environment.
Fabric softeners should not be used. It can create a coating on the reflective tapes and reduce their reflectivity.
If the garments are very dirty, pre-washing can be used, but only with mild agents adapted for workwear. When machine washing in communal washing machines, the drum should be cleaned before use to avoid transferring oil or paint from previous washes.
Temperature affects both cleanliness and longevity. Many high-visibility clothing can withstand 40-60°C, but always according to the label.
Higher temperatures can damage the reflective material, while too low a temperature will not sufficiently remove grease and dirt. Low-impact washing programs, such as synthetic or delicate, reduce wear on reflective tapes and seams.
Spinning should be done at low speed to avoid creasing and damage. Drying is best done by air drying.
If tumble dryers are used, low heat should be selected. Direct sunlight should be avoided as UV radiation fades fluorescent colors.
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High visibility clothing requires special care to maintain its visibility and protective function. Improper washing and drying methods can quickly degrade reflective and fluorescent materials, reducing the safety and life of the garment.
Fabric softeners can actually impair the performance of high-visibility clothing. They leave a thin film on the fabric, which affects both the light transmission of the reflective bands and the daylight visibility of the fluorescent material.
With repeated use, dirt and oil stick to that film more easily. Garments become more difficult to keep clean and visibility deteriorates faster than expected.
Users should therefore never add fabric softener when washing high-visibility clothing. If the clothes feel stiff after washing, an extra rinse with water may be a better option.
This helps to remove detergent residues without significantly affecting the properties of the material.
Bleaches and harsh detergents break down the fibers of fluorescent fabrics. They can also destroy the surface layer of the reflective tape, causing the warning color to fade and the reflectors to lose brightness.
Always avoid:
These substances can cause permanent damage - they cannot be repaired.
Manufacturers' washing instructions usually specify a maximum temperature, often around 40-60°C, to protect the materials.
Use a mild detergent without bleach and wash garments separately from dark or dirty textiles. Otherwise there is a high risk of discoloration.
Drying actually plays a bigger role in the durability of high-visibility clothing than you might think. Sunlight and high heat can fade the colors and destroy the adhesive on the reflectors.
It is best to air dry your garments in the shade or in a ventilated area. Tumble dryer? Yes, but only if the manufacturer says it's okay, and then on a low temperature.
Overheating shrinks the fabric and can damage the reflective tape. Avoid hanging clothes near heaters or fans.
Storing damp garments is also not a good idea - it can easily lead to mildew and reduced visibility over time.
Safety clothing needs to be cleaned in a way that preserves both visibility and protection. The method you choose depends on the material, the level of soiling and what the manufacturer recommends.
Machine washing is the most common method for high-visibility clothing. A washing machine with the right program and temperature will remove dirt, oil and sweat without damaging the reflective or fluorescent colors.
Use a mild detergent without bleach and skip fabric softener. Temperature. Stick to 40-60°C, but always check the label first.
Wash garments inside out to protect the reflective strips. Separate them from dark or heavily soiled garments, otherwise they can get ugly discolorations.
| Recommendation | Detail |
|---|---|
| Washing program | Synthetic or workwear |
| Detergent | Liquid, without optical brighteners |
| Drying | Air dry, avoid high heat |
Handwashing is suitable for care items made of delicate materials or garments with already damaged reflectors. It gives you better control over both temperature and handling.
Use lukewarm water, around 30-40°C, with a mild detergent. Leave the garment to soak for a few minutes and gently rub the soiled areas with a soft brush or cloth.
Rinse thoroughly until all detergent is removed. Washing residues can affect both breathability and reflectivity.
Avoid twisting the garment hard. Instead, squeeze out the water and hang it to dry at room temperature. Hand-washing works particularly well for small stains or single garments.
Dry cleaning is an option when high visibility clothing can't handle water or when stains are really bad. It uses solvents instead of water, which reduces the risk of shrinkage and color loss.
Always check the washing symbols first. Some reflective materials and PU-coated fabrics can be damaged by solvents.
Many modern dry cleaners use carbon dioxide-based systems or other environmentally friendly methods that recycle the liquid.
Dry cleaning is best suited for specialty garments or combined materials where machine or hand washing is not quite enough. But honestly, if the garment can handle water-based washing, it is usually preferable.
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How you dry and store high-visibility clothing affects both visibility and longevity. Moisture, heat and direct sunlight can reduce reflectivity and color intensity, making the clothing less safe.
Warning clothing should preferably be air-dried at room temperature. This reduces the risk of shrinkage, discoloration and damage to reflective tape.
Hang up your clothes immediately after washing, preferably with the wrong side out, to allow air to circulate. If you have to use a tumble dryer anyway, choose a low temperature.
Excessive heat can destroy both the fluorescent material and the reflectors. The manufacturer's washing instructions usually give a maximum limit, often between 40-60 °C.
Do not mix high visibility clothing with other textiles when drying. Oil or paint residues from other garments can stick and affect visibility.
Check that the clothes are completely dry before folding or storing them.
Direct sunlight and UV radiation break down the fluorescent pigments in garments. The colors fade and the reflectors lose their light transmission.
Dry and store clothes in the shade or indoors, preferably away from windows where the sun is shining. When drying outdoors, a simple cover, such as a roof or shading fabric, can reduce UV exposure.
This is particularly important for garments with a high visibility class according to EN ISO 20471, where color fastness is part of safety.
A smart trick is to turn the clothes inside out while drying. This protects the reflective surfaces and reduces fading.
Even short-term exposure to strong sunlight can affect the structure of the material and reduce the effectiveness of the garment over time.
Warning clothing should be stored in a dry, clean and well-ventilated place. Damp or dirty conditions can quickly cause mold, odors, and degradation of reflective and protective materials.
Hang clothes on hangers or lay them flat in their original packaging. Avoid plastic bags without ventilation-condensation is not your friend.
In multi-user workplaces, it's a good idea to label garments and have simple cleaning and inspection procedures.
| Steps to take | Action | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Check that the garment is dry | Prevent mold and odors |
| 2 | Fold or hang up | Maintain shape and reflective surfaces |
| 3 | Store in a dark and cool place | Protect against UV and heat |
High-quality high-visibility clothing lasts longer, is more visible and is actually more comfortable to wear. They are less affected by frequent washing and retain protection for longer, especially if they are properly fitted and maintained.
Good quality warning clothing is often made from durable blended materials such as polyester and cotton. Polyester provides durability and color fastness, while cotton makes the garments more breathable.
The combination allows the clothing to withstand both rough handling and many washes without losing its fluorescent effect.
Visibility is enhanced by fluorescent colors and reflective tapes that meet standards such as EN ISO 20471. Such materials are tested to retain light reflection even after many washes.
| Characteristic | Advantage |
|---|---|
| Durability | Longer life in daily use |
| Color and light fastness | Maintains visibility after washing |
| Comfort and convenience | Better fit and freedom of movement |
Well-designed seams and reinforced areas at the knees and elbows reduce the risk of wear. This makes the garments particularly suitable for construction, transportation and industry - where durability really matters.
Printed warning clothing is often used to display company logos or personalized markings. The print must be applied using heat-resistant and washable methods, such as heat transfer or embroidery, so as not to affect the garment's protection class.
When washing, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions. Garments should be washed inside out and separately from dark textiles.
Avoid bleaches, fabric softeners or optical brighteners - they can reduce both the reflectivity and the adhesion of the print.
To preserve the quality of the print, a maximum of 60°C washing and air drying is recommended. High heat in a tumble dryer can cause the print to crack or come loose.
It is a good idea to check the reflections and prints from time to time to make sure the garments are still doing their job.
Warning clothing must meet established safety requirements to provide adequate visibility and protection. How long the garments remain functional depends on certification, materials and how many washes they can withstand before the reflective properties and color fade.
Emergency clothing is mainly regulated by EN ISO 20471, an international standard with requirements for visibility, fluorescent materials and reflective performance. The standard applies to workwear in environments where people need to be clearly visible, such as road works or industrial sites.
The Swedish Work Environment Authority requires employers to provide approved high-visibility garments according to this standard. Garments are divided into three classes depending on the amount of visible material:
| Class | Area of use | Visibility level |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Low risk, e.g. warehouse work | Lowest |
| 2 | Medium risk, e.g. construction site | Medium |
| 3 | High risk, e.g. road works or traffic environment | Highest |
To maintain certification, garments must be washed and maintained according to the manufacturer's instructions. Incorrect washing can reduce the reflectivity and cause the garment to no longer meet the requirements.
The number of washes a high-visibility garment can withstand varies depending on the material, manufacturing quality and washing method. Most certified garments are tested for a specified number of wash cycles, often between 25 and 75 washes before visibility deteriorates.
The manufacturer indicates on the product label or washing instructions how many washes the garment is approved for. This figure is based on laboratory tests to ensure that reflective and fluorescent colors retain their light transmission.
Exceeding the recommended number of washes can result in the garment no longer complying with EN ISO 20471. Therefore, it is wise to document the washing frequency and replace garments when they approach the limit.
High visibility clothing should be replaced when it no longer meets visibility requirements or when the reflective material is damaged, faded or dirt that does not come off affects its function. Mechanical wear, such as tears or heavily worn fabric, also reduces protection.
The Swedish Work Environment Authority recommends regular visual checks of high-visibility clothing. If the reflectors no longer reflect light clearly in the dark or if the color has lost its fluorescent effect, the garment should be taken out of use.
To prolong the life of the garments, they should be washed according to the manufacturer's instructions. Keep them dry and protect from direct sunlight.
Proper maintenance reduces the need for premature replacement and ensures that the level of protection is maintained for as long as possible.
Warning clothing requires careful care to maintain its visibility and protective function. The right washing method, temperature and handling of the material will affect how long reflective and fluorescent colors work properly.
High visibility clothing should be washed regularly, especially when it gets dirty. Dirt and oil reduce the reflective and fluorescent effect of the garment, reducing visibility.
For daily use, washing is recommended at least once a week or more often in case of heavy soiling.
Always wash high visibility clothing separately from dark or heavily colored garments to avoid discoloration. Use a mild detergent without optical brighteners.
Close zippers and Velcro to reduce wear on reflective materials. Always check the washing instructions on the garment label - it's worth double-checking.
Neither bleach nor fabric softener should be used. Bleach breaks down the fluorescent pigments, and fabric softener can leave a film that reduces the light reflected by the reflectors.
Just use regular detergent and the right amount. That's enough.
Most high-visibility clothing can be washed at 40-60°C, but it is important to follow the garment label. Too high a temperature can damage the reflective material and reduce the intensity of the color.
A temperature of 60°C is usually sufficient to remove bacteria and dirt without damaging the fabric.
Tumble drying should be avoided unless the manufacturer explicitly allows it. High heat can destroy reflective bands and degrade the fluorescent material.
Air drying in the shade is the safest option to preserve both color and function.
Pre-treat stains with a mild stain remover before washing. Don't rub hard - it can actually damage both the surface and the reflectors.
Avoid solvents and strong chemicals. These can affect the protective properties of the fabric in a way you would rather not.
The information on this page is intended as general guidance only and does not replace manufacturer instructions or applicable regulations. Workwise does not guarantee that the content is accurate, complete, or current and is not liable for decisions or actions taken based on this information. Always follow current standards and manufacturer instructions.