Wearing a hi-vis safety vest is a necessary evil for many workers. Whether you're working on a construction site, directing traffic, or doing any other job that requires you to be visible, wearing a hi-vis vest is non-negotiable.
However, they can get pretty dirty quickly because you wear them often. In this blog post, we'll show you how to properly clean your hi-vis safety vest to ensure it lasts longer and looks its best.
Step 1: Check the Care Label
The first step in any cleaning process is to check the care label. This label will give you specific instructions on how to wash your garment without damaging it. If your hi-vis safety vest doesn't have a care label, proceed with caution. We recommend hand-washing in cold water with a mild detergent.
Step 2: Pre-Treat Any Stains
Once you've checked the care label and decided how to wash your hi-vis safety vest, it's time to pre-treat any stains. For best results, use a stain remover designed for the type of fabric your vest uses. Apply the stain remover directly to the stain and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before washing.
Step 3: Wash on a Gentle Cycle
After pre-treating any stains, it's time to wash your hi-vis safety vest. We recommend using a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent. If your garment is particularly dirty, you may need to wash it twice. Once your vest has finished washing, hang it up to dry or put it in the dryer in a low-heat setting.
How To Dry a Hi-Vis Safety Vest
Once your hi-vis safety vest is clean, it's important to dry it properly. Drying your vest in a clothes dryer on a low-heat setting is the best way to ensure that it doesn't shrink or lose shape. If you hang your vest up to dry, ensure that you do not put it in direct sunlight, which can cause the fabric to fade.
Why Keeping Your Hi-Vis Safety Vest Clean Is Important
Aside from the obvious reason for wanting your hi-vis safety vest to look its best, there are other good reasons to keep it clean. For one, a clean hi-vis safety vest is more effective at doing its job than a dirty one. If your vest has stains, it will be less visible to others.
Additionally, a clean hi-vis safety vest is more comfortable to wear. If your vest has dirt and sweat all over it, it will be uncomfortable and may even cause skin irritation.
Finally, keeping your hi-vis safety vest clean will help it last longer. A well-cared-for vest will last many years, while a neglected one will need replacing much sooner.
Mistakes To Avoid When Cleaning Your Hi-Vis Safety Vest
Now that you know how to clean your hi-vis safety vest properly, there are a few things you should avoid doing.
Never Dry It Without Checking the Care Label
As mentioned earlier, checking the care label before drying your hi-vis safety vest is important. Drying your vest on a high heat setting can damage the fabric and cause it to shrink. The last thing you want is your vest to be too small to wear!
Never Use Harsh Chemicals
Harsh chemicals can damage the fabric of your hi-vis safety vest and cause it to degrade over time. Stick to mild detergents and stain removers, and avoid using bleach or other harsh chemicals. Without proper care, your hi-vis safety vest won't last as long as it should.
Never Neglect To Clean Your Hi-Vis Safety Vest
Regularly cleaning your hi-vis safety vest is the best way to ensure that it lasts for many years. If you neglect to clean it, the fabric will break down, and the vest will become less effective at doing its job.
Other things to avoid include:
- Washing your hi-vis safety vest with other garments that might damage it.
- Hanging your hi-vis safety vest up to dry in direct sunlight.
- Leaving your hi-vis safety vest in a damp environment can encourage the growth of mold and mildew.
Why Having a Hi-Vis Safety Vest Is Important
A hi-vis safety vest is an important piece of safety equipment that can help keep you visible in low-light conditions. If you work in a job that requires you to be visible to others, such as construction or security, wearing a hi-vis safety vest is a must.
A hi-vis safety vest is also good if you enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking or biking. Wearing a vest will help ensure you are visible to others in an emergency.
No matter what your occupation or hobbies, if you spend time in low-light conditions, a hi-vis safety vest is an essential piece of safety gear.
Things To Consider When Purchasing a Hi-Vis Safety Vest
You should keep a few things in mind when purchasing a hi-vis safety vest. First, consider the type of activity you will be doing while wearing the vest. If you work in a job requiring heavy lifting or moving around a lot, you will need a comfortable vest to wear that won't restrict your movement.
Second, think about the climate where you will be wearing the vest. If you live in a warm environment, you will need a hi-vis safety vest made from breathable fabric. On the other hand, if you live in a cold climate, you will need a vest that will keep you warm.
Finally, consider your budget. Hi-vis vests can range in price from a few dollars to over a hundred dollars. Decide how much you will spend on a hi-vis safety vest before shopping.
With these things in mind, you should be able to find a hi-vis safety vest that is perfect for you.
Cleaning your hi-vis safety vest may seem daunting, but it's pretty easy! Check the care label first, pre-treat any stains, and wash on a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent. If you follow these steps, you'll have a clean and fresh hi-vis safety vest in no time!
Hi Vis Safety has many hi-vis vests and safety gear for different purposes. Whether you need a work or play vest, we've got you covered you. Visit us online today to check out our selection!
