How to Wash Hi-Vis Clothing?

When working on a site where personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential, a high-vis vest is likely part of your daily uniform. Keeping your hi-vis clothing clean and well-maintained is crucial – not just for hygiene, but to preserve its visibility and effectiveness. However, different garments require different care, and not all can be washed at the same temperature. In this guide, ProRTX explains how to wash a high-vis vest and how to wash a high-vis jacket correctly, so you can extend the life of your gear without compromising safety.

Handwashing or Machine Washing?

While all of our hi-vis clothing is machine washable, handwashing is the best way to preserve its quality over time. Gently washing by hand allows you to remove dirt and grime without risking damage to the polyester fabric or compromising the effectiveness of the reflective strips – helping your gear stay in top condition for longer.

Handwashing

When it comes to washing your hi-vis clothing, don’t wait too long. The sooner you clean it, the better – as letting dirt and grime settle into the fibres can make it much harder to restore the garment to its original condition. Prompt washing helps maintain both visibility and longevity.

After brushing off any loose dirt or debris, soak your hi-vis workwear in lukewarm water with a mild detergent for 20–30 minutes. Gently scrub any stained areas with a soft brush, then rinse thoroughly under cold water. Once clean, hang the garment to air dry – and it’ll be ready to go again for another day on the job.

Machine Washing

If you prefer washing your workwear in one go, hi-vis garments can safely go in the washing machine – as long as you follow the right precautions. Always wash with similar fabrics and colours to avoid damaging the high-visibility colouring. Avoid mixing with rougher items like jeans, which can cause abrasion and reduce the garment’s effectiveness.

Use a mild detergent and set your machine to a gentle cycle at the recommended 40°C. Just like with handwashing, air drying is key – hang your hi-vis clothing to help release any remaining dust or fibres and preserve its reflective and protective qualities.

Follow the Care Instructions

Every piece of workwear includes a care label with specific washing temperatures and drying guidelines to help you maintain its quality and performance. For added convenience, our workwear brochure also provides detailed care instructions for every item across our clothing collections – making it easy to keep your garments in top condition.

Explore Our Workwear Collection

Now that you know how to wash a high-vis vest, take the next step and explore our full collection of durable, high-quality workwear – including hi-vis T-shirts, sweatshirts, hoodies, and trousers. By following the correct care instructions, you’ll extend the life of your gear and stay visible, safe, and comfortable on site all day long.

If you have any questions about our high-visibility range or need help finding where to buy, feel free to contact us. And for more tips, product updates, and insights into the ProRTX collection, head over to our blog.