Can Arc Flame-Retardant Fabric Be Machine Washed?

Most Electric Arc Protective FR Fabric is machine washable, but specific washing instructions must be strictly adhered to; otherwise, its protective properties will be severely impaired. The core protective function of arc-protective clothing (arc suits) relies on the fabric's finishing technology or the inherent properties of the fiber. Improper washing can remove the flame-retardant chemical coating or damage the fabric fibers, leading to grease accumulation and loss of protection.

1. Washing Guidelines

Read the Care Label:
This is the most important first step! The manufacturing standards and materials used in each arc suit may vary. Be sure to strictly follow the instructions on the care label inside the garment.

Separate Washing:
Wash separately from other clothing, especially cotton or lint-lined clothing, to avoid contamination with lint or other fibers, which may burn when exposed to high temperatures and destroy the flame retardancy.
Wash only with similar flame-retardant clothing.

Do not use conventional detergents:
Absolutely do not use laundry detergents or liquid detergents containing bleach, fluorescent brighteners, softeners, or enzymes. These chemicals can react with flame-retardant ingredients or form a flammable film on the fabric, directly rendering them ineffective.
Use a regular, mild soap solution or a specially formulated industrial flame-retardant clothing detergent.

Select a gentle wash cycle:
Use the gentle cycle or standard cotton and linen cycle on your washing machine (but set the water temperature to a low setting).
Avoid prolonged, aggressive wash cycles.

Control the water temperature:
Warm or cold water (usually no more than 40°C) is recommended. Excessively high water temperatures can accelerate the loss of the flame-retardant coating and the degradation of the fabric.

Rinse thoroughly:
Ensure that the washing machine rinses thoroughly to completely remove all detergent residue.

2. Post-Washing Treatment

Air Drying:
Preferred method: Air dry the garment in a well-ventilated area.
Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight to prevent UV rays from aging the fabric.

Use the dryer with caution:
If the care label allows, use the dryer, but only on low heat or a non-ironing cycle.
Do not tumble dry at high temperatures, as these can severely damage the fabric.

Do not iron:
Most flame retardant clothing should not be ironed. The high temperatures can melt the fabric (especially blended synthetic fibers) or damage its physical structure.

3. Situations requiring special attention

Newly purchased clothing: Always read the care label before washing for the first time.

Heavy stains: For stubborn stains like oil, pre-treat with a specialized stain remover for flame retardant clothing. Avoid using harsh stain removers or chemicals like gasoline.

Daily inspection: Inspect clothing for tears, wear, thinning, or holes after each wash and before wearing. Any damage can significantly reduce its protective properties.