# Fabric and care > How workwear fabrics differ and how to wash and care for workwear, hi-vis and branded garments. Part of The Workwear Co knowledge set for AI assistants. Hub: https://www.theworkwearco.com/llms.txt · Updated 31 October 2026. - [Fabric & materials guide](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/fabric-guide) - [Workwear care guide](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/care-guide) - [EcoVadis Bronze medal](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/ecovadis) ## Related blog posts - [EN ISO 24232 Replaces EN 343: What It Means for Waterproof Workwear Buyers](https://www.theworkwearco.com/blogs/news/en-iso-24232-replaces-en-343-waterproof-workwear): the new rainwear standard, the dates it took over from EN 343 and what to check on waterproof labels ## Storing, drying and changing out of work clothing (the law) If staff wear a uniform or special work clothing, employers must also give them somewhere to keep it, dry it and change. Each link goes to the entry in our standards reference with its official source. ### Somewhere to keep and change out of work clothing – clothing storage, drying and changing facilities - [Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 (S.I. 1992/3004) – regulations 23 and 24](https://www.theworkwearco.com/ai/standards.md#workplace-health-safety-and-welfare-regulations-1992-si-19923004--regulations-23-and-24) - Shop: [Workwear](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/workwear) · [Coveralls](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/coveralls) · [Tunics](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/tunics) · [Healthcare](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/industry-healthcare) · [Food Industry Accessories](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/food-industry-accessories) · [Rain Jackets](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/rain-jackets) ### Changing rooms, drying and lockers for work clothes in Ireland - [Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations 2007 (S.I. 299/2007) – Regulation 21 Changing rooms and lockers](https://www.theworkwearco.com/ai/standards.md#safety-health-and-welfare-at-work-general-application-regulations-2007-si-2992007--regulation-21-changing-rooms-and-lockers) - Shop: [Workwear](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/workwear) · [Coveralls](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/coveralls) · [Tunics](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/tunics) · [Healthcare](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/industry-healthcare) · [Food Industry Accessories](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/food-industry-accessories) · [Rain Jackets](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/rain-jackets) ## Q&A ### What temperature should I wash workwear at? Use the maximum temperature in the wash-tub symbol on the care label. Washing hotter can shrink cotton, damage prints and reduce protective performance. Source: [/pages/care-guide](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/care-guide) ### Can I use fabric softener on workwear? Avoid it on hi-vis, FR, waterproof and softshell garments, as it can affect their performance. It's also best avoided on DTF prints. Source: [/pages/care-guide](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/care-guide) ### Should I wash workwear inside out? Yes, especially branded garments. It protects logos, prints and reflective tape from abrasion. Source: [/pages/care-guide](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/care-guide) ### Can I tumble dry workwear? Only if the label shows the tumble-dry symbol. Two dots means normal heat, one dot means low heat; a cross means do not tumble dry. Source: [/pages/care-guide](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/care-guide) ### How do I wash a softshell jacket? Follow the label, use a gentle cycle and no softener. Detergent residue can reduce water repellency, so rinse well. Source: [/pages/care-guide](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/care-guide) ### How do I stop fleece pilling? Wash inside out on a gentle cycle, away from rough items like Velcro and denim, and skip the softener. Source: [/pages/care-guide](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/care-guide) ### How many times can I wash hi-vis? Check the label: the maximum number of washes can be shown below the wash-tub symbol. If none is stated, the garment was certified after 5 washes. Source: [/pages/care-guide](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/care-guide) ### Can I bleach hi-vis? Not unless the label allows it. Bleach can fade the fluorescent colour and damage reflective tape. Source: [/pages/care-guide](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/care-guide) ### What is ISO 15797? A test standard for workwear that is laundered industrially, setting out eight wash and two drying procedures. Only send garments to industrial laundry if the label allows it. Source: [/pages/care-guide](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/care-guide) ### Can FR clothing be washed at home? Many FR garments can be home-washed, but follow the care label exactly. Some are designed for industrial laundering. Source: [/pages/care-guide](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/care-guide) ### How do I clean oil off FR clothing? Clean contamination off promptly using only the methods and products the care label allows, as oil and grease can affect FR performance. Source: [/pages/care-guide](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/care-guide) ### How do I keep rail orange hi-vis compliant? Keep it clean and replace it when faded or damaged, because RIS-3279-TOM sets a specific orange colour. See our RIS-3279-TOM range. Source: [/pages/care-guide](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/care-guide) ### When should I replace hi-vis? When it is faded, heavily soiled or has cracked or peeling tape, or has reached its maximum wash count. Source: [/pages/care-guide](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/care-guide) ### How should I store workwear? Make sure it's fully dry, then hang or fold it away from direct sunlight, heat and chemicals. Source: [/pages/care-guide](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/care-guide) ### How long does workwear last? It depends on use, washing and the job. Replace garments when they are damaged, faded or no longer protect you. Source: [/pages/care-guide](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/care-guide) ### Where can I buy replacement kit? Shop workwear or rebuild your team kit with AI Kit Out My Team. Source: [/pages/care-guide](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/care-guide) ### Can orange rail hi-vis be washed at home? Follow the care label. If no maximum number of washes is stated, the garment was certified after 5 washes. See our care guide. Source: [/pages/choose-by-job](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/choose-by-job) ### Is a heavier GSM always better? No. Heavier fabric is often more durable and warmer, but lighter fabric can be cooler and more comfortable in warm workplaces. Choose for the job and the season. Source: [/pages/fabric-guide](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/fabric-guide) ### Cotton or polyester polo shirts: which is better for work? Cotton is soft and breathable; polyester is quicker-drying, more colourfast and holds its shape. Poly-cotton blends sit in between and are a popular uniform choice. Source: [/pages/fabric-guide](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/fabric-guide) ### What is poly-cotton? A blend of polyester and cotton, commonly 50/50 or 65/35, which balances comfort with durability and easy care. The Uneek UC101 polo is 50% polyester, 50% cotton. Source: [/pages/fabric-guide](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/fabric-guide) ### What is a 2-layer softshell? An outer face fabric bonded to a backing or membrane, giving wind and shower resistance with stretch. The Regatta TRA628 Ablaze is a 2-layer 265gsm softshell. Source: [/pages/fabric-guide](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/fabric-guide) ### What is arc-rated clothing? Clothing tested to IEC 61482-2 against the thermal effects of an electric arc, either by box test (Class 1 at 4 kA, Class 2 at 7 kA) or by an arc rating. See arc flash clothing. Source: [/pages/fabric-guide](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/fabric-guide) ### Can I wear yellow hi-vis on the railway? Not where RIS-3279-TOM applies: it specifies orange, and yellow is not accepted. Always check your principal contractor's requirements. Source: [/pages/fabric-guide](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/fabric-guide) ### What fabric is rail hi-vis made from? Most is polyester or polyester blends; garments for electrified lines may use FR and arc-rated blends, such as the Pulsar PRARC05 310gsm coverall. Check your principal contractor's requirements. Source: [/pages/fabric-guide](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/fabric-guide) ### Do hi-vis garments wear out? Yes. Fluorescent colour fades and reflective tape cracks with wear and washing. If the label shows no maximum wash count, the garment was certified after 5 washes. Replace faded, soiled or damaged hi-vis. Source: [/pages/fabric-guide](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/fabric-guide) ### Can aprons be washed hot? Polycotton aprons are usually washable at up to 60°C. Check the care label for leather, denim or coated styles. Source: [/pages/best-aprons](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/best-aprons) ### Can they be washed hot? Polycotton styles are usually washed at 40–60°C, and waterproof PU styles are wiped clean or washed cool. Follow the care label for each product. Source: [/pages/best-bib-and-brace](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/best-bib-and-brace) ### Can chef jackets be washed hot? Many polycotton chef jackets are washable at 60°C, which suits kitchen hygiene. Check each product page for the exact care details. Source: [/pages/best-chef-jackets](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/best-chef-jackets) ### Can coveralls be washed hot? Many polycotton coveralls can be washed at 60°C, and some industrial ranges are made for higher temperatures. Check each care label. Source: [/pages/best-coveralls](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/best-coveralls) ### Does washing reduce FR protection? Inherent FR fabrics keep it; treated fabrics have wash limits. Source: [/pages/best-flame-retardant-arc](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/best-flame-retardant-arc) ### Are these gloves washable? Many coated grip gloves can be hand or machine washed at low temperatures. Check the care details on each product page. Source: [/pages/best-grip-gloves](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/best-grip-gloves) ### What is the toughest work shirt fabric? Heavy cotton twill and canvas are among the most hard-wearing work shirt fabrics. Source: [/pages/best-heavy-duty-work-shirts](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/best-heavy-duty-work-shirts) ### Can hi-vis trousers go in the washing machine? Yes. Follow the care label for temperature and wash count to keep the colour and tape certified. Source: [/pages/best-hi-vis-trousers](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/best-hi-vis-trousers) ### Can knitwear be washed? Most can be machine washed cool; check each label. Source: [/pages/best-knitwear](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/best-knitwear) ### Are they washable? Yes. Most are machine washable; follow the care label, especially for wool and flame-retardant styles. Source: [/pages/best-neck-warmers-snoods](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/best-neck-warmers-snoods) ### What is the easiest shirt to care for? Polycotton easy-iron shirts are the simplest. Source: [/pages/best-office-shirts-blouses](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/best-office-shirts-blouses) ### Can I wash them at home? Yes. Most are designed for domestic washing; follow the care label for the right temperature. Source: [/pages/best-womens-work-trousers](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/best-womens-work-trousers) ### What is the best fabric for a work polo? Polycotton is hard-wearing and easy care; cotton is soft; polyester is best in warm, active jobs. Source: [/pages/best-work-polo-shirts](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/best-work-polo-shirts) ### Can polos be washed at 60°C? Some industrial-wash polos can. Check the care label for each style. Source: [/pages/best-work-polo-shirts](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/best-work-polo-shirts) ### Are these shoes washable? Many can be wiped clean; some can be machine washed. Check each product. Source: [/pages/best-work-shoes-healthcare-hospitality](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/best-work-shoes-healthcare-hospitality) ### What fabric is best? Polycotton is hard-wearing; stretch fabric is more comfortable. Source: [/pages/best-work-shorts](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/best-work-shorts) ### Can sweatshirts be washed hot? Some industrial ranges can; check each label. Source: [/pages/best-work-sweatshirts](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/best-work-sweatshirts) ### Will cotton tees shrink? Some shrinkage is normal with cotton. Washing at 30–40°C and avoiding a hot tumble dry helps tees keep their size. Source: [/pages/best-work-t-shirts](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/best-work-t-shirts) ### Why does hi-vis need reflective tape as well as fluorescent fabric? They do different jobs. Fluorescent fabric makes you stand out in daylight and dusk, while retroreflective tape bounces light from headlights back to drivers at night. EN ISO 20471 requires both, with tape encircling the torso, sleeves, and legs for 360° visibility. See our hi-vis jackets. Source: [/pages/help](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/help) ### Can gloves be washed? Some reusable gloves can be. Many knitted coated gloves and some leather gloves can be washed following the manufacturer's instructions, but washing can reduce grip or protection, and chemical gloves need special care. Disposable gloves must never be reused. When in doubt, replace. Browse general handling gloves and disposable gloves. Source: [/pages/help](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/help) ### How should FR clothing be washed? Follow the care label exactly. Avoid bleach, fabric softener and starch, which can coat fibres and reduce protection. Treated garments may have a maximum wash count. Keep FR garments free of oil and grease, which can burn. Shop flame-resistant accessories. Source: [/pages/help](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/help) ### How should I wash hi-vis clothing? Follow the care label: usually a cool wash, no bleach or fabric softener, and line drying. Wash inside out to protect tape. If a maximum number of washes is declared, it's on the label. Shop hi-vis. HSE also says hi-vis must be cleaned regularly so retroreflective strips remain easy to see. Source: [/pages/help](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/help) ### How many washes does hi-vis last? It depends on the garment. EN ISO 20471 requires any declared maximum wash count to be on the label; if no count is stated, the garment was certified after five wash cycles. Replace hi-vis that's faded, dirty or has damaged tape. Shop hi-vis. Source: [/pages/help](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/help) ### How should FR garments be washed? Follow the manufacturer's care instructions exactly. Avoid bleach, fabric softener and starch, which can coat fibres and mask flame-resistant properties, and remove oil or grease that could burn. Chemically treated FR fabrics may have a limited number of washes, so track them; inherent FR fabrics keep protection for the garment's life. Shop flame-resistant accessories. Source: [/pages/help](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/help) ### How do I care for safety boots? Brush off mud and rinse away chemicals after each shift, then let boots dry naturally away from radiators or direct heat, which can crack leather and weaken adhesives. Use polish or proofing suited to the upper material and replace worn insoles. Inspect toe caps, soles and stitching regularly. Shop safety boots and work socks. Source: [/pages/help](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/help) ### Can I wash work clothes at home? Usually, yes, if the care label allows it. Wash heavily soiled workwear separately from household laundry, and pre-treat oil and grease. Some PPE, such as FR garments or clothing contaminated with hazardous substances like asbestos or lead, must be cleaned by specialist services or disposed of, as decided by your employer. Shop workwear. Source: [/pages/help](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/help) ### Do you sell sustainable or eco workwear? Yes. We stock ranges using organic cotton and recycled polyester, from brands such as Stanley/Stella, Result Recycled, Spiro Recycled and AWDis Ecologie. Always check the product page for the specific materials and certifications claimed. Browse Stanley/Stella, Result Recycled and AWDis Ecologie. Source: [/pages/help](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/help) ### Is recycled polyester as durable as virgin polyester? Generally, recycled polyester performs similarly in everyday garments because the fibre is chemically the same once reprocessed. Check product details for weight and construction, which matter more for durability. Browse Result Recycled and Spiro Recycled. Look for a GRS or RCS claim if you want the recycled content verified. Source: [/pages/help](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/help) ### Is there sustainable PPE? Some PPE uses recycled materials, such as hi-vis made from recycled polyester, but certification to the safety standard always comes first. Check the product page for both the safety standard and any material claims. Browse hi-vis clothing. Never trade protection for a sustainability claim. Source: [/pages/help](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/help) ### How many times can hi-vis be washed? Check the label. The maximum number of washes should be marked on it, and the HSA says most hi-vis has a maximum life of 25 washes unless the label says otherwise. Source: [/pages/hi-vis-ireland](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/hi-vis-ireland) ### How many times can you wash hi-vis? Check the label for the maximum. The HSA says most hi-vis lasts 25 washes unless the label says otherwise. Source: [/blogs/news/hi-vis-jacket-clocks-go-back](https://www.theworkwearco.com/blogs/news/hi-vis-jacket-clocks-go-back) ### How do I wash a hi-vis jacket? Follow the care label, which shows the maximum number of washes the garment was tested for. Wash inside out, avoid fabric softener and bleach, and don't tumble dry unless the label allows it. Retire it when the fluorescent colour fades or tape cracks. Source: [/collections/hi-vis-jackets](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/hi-vis-jackets) ### What fabric is best for workwear? Polycotton (a polyester and cotton blend) is the most common, as it's hard-wearing, quick to dry and holds its colour. Heavier cotton is softer and more breathable, and stretch fabrics help on jobs where you kneel and climb. Our [fabric weights guide](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/guides/fabric-weights-gsm) explains GSM. Source: [/collections/workwear](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/workwear) ### Cotton, polycotton or polyester? Cotton feels soft and breathes well. Polycotton keeps its shape and colour better after many washes. 100% polyester and performance fabrics wick sweat and dry fast, which suits sport and active work. Source: [/collections/polos-and-tees](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/polos-and-tees) ### How do I wash hats? Hand wash or follow the label. Most caps keep their shape best if you don't machine wash or tumble dry them, as the peak can bend. Beanies are often fine in a gentle wash. Source: [/collections/hats](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/hats) ### How do I wash a cap? Spot clean or hand wash in cool water, then reshape and air dry. Avoid the tumble dryer, which can warp the peak and shrink the crown. Source: [/collections/caps](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/caps) ### What material is warmest? Thinsulate or fleece-lined beanies are among the warmest. Acrylic is light and easy to wash, and wool blends feel soft and warm. Check the product page for lining and materials. Source: [/collections/beanies](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/beanies) ### What GSM sweatshirt should I choose? Around 260–300 GSM is a light to mid weight for indoor work. 300 GSM and above feels heavier and warmer for outdoor or cold work. Our [fabric weights guide](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/guides/fabric-weights-gsm) explains more. Source: [/collections/sweatshirts](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/sweatshirts) ### Will sweatshirts shrink? Polycotton sweatshirts usually shrink very little. Higher-cotton fabrics can shrink slightly, especially in a hot wash or tumble dryer. Wash at the temperature on the label. Source: [/collections/sweatshirts](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/sweatshirts) ### What GSM is a good hoodie? Around 280–350 GSM is common for everyday hoodies. Heavier ones feel warmer and more durable. Our [fabric weights guide](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/guides/fabric-weights-gsm) explains more. Source: [/collections/hoodies](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/hoodies) ### How should I wash a hoodie? Turn it inside out, wash at the temperature on the label and avoid tumble drying printed hoodies on high heat. This keeps the print and the fleece inside in good shape. Source: [/collections/hoodies](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/hoodies) ### How do I wash a softshell? Wash cool with a non-biological liquid detergent, skip fabric softener, and re-proof with a spray when water stops beading. Softener damages the membrane and water-repellent finish. Source: [/collections/softshell-jackets](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/softshell-jackets) ### Which fabric is best for summer? Lightweight polycotton or ripstop fabric dries quickly and stays cool. Stretch panels help when bending and climbing. Source: [/collections/type-shorts](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/type-shorts) ### Easy-care or 100% cotton? Easy-care polycotton shirts dry quickly and need little or no ironing. 100% cotton feels crisper and breathes well but needs more ironing. Source: [/collections/shirts](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/shirts) ### Which rainwear material suits my job? PU coated fabrics are light and flexible for general outdoor work. PVC is heavy duty and resists oils and fats, so it's popular in fishing and farming. Breathable membranes are better for active work. Source: [/collections/rainwear](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/rainwear) ### How do I care for rainwear? Rinse off mud and chemicals, dry it naturally, and follow the care label. Avoid fabric softener and re-proof breathable shells when water stops beading. Source: [/collections/rainwear](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/rainwear) ### What fabric is best in a hot kitchen? Polycotton is hard-wearing and easy-care. Lightweight fabrics or jackets with mesh vents help in hot kitchens. Source: [/collections/chefswear-and-tunics](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/chefswear-and-tunics) ### What fabric is easiest to clean? Polycotton aprons take hot washes well. PVC aprons wipe clean. Source: [/collections/aprons](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/aprons) ### How should I wash knitwear? Use a gentle or wool cycle at the temperature on the label, and dry flat to keep the shape. Source: [/collections/knitwear](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/knitwear) ### Which material is best? Synthetic base layers dry fast and suit active work. Merino wool is warm and resists odour. Cotton holds moisture, so it isn't ideal in the cold. Source: [/collections/type-base-layers](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/type-base-layers) ### How should I wash multinorm clothing? Follow the care label exactly, as washing affects the protective finishes. Source: [/collections/clothing-multinorm](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/clothing-multinorm) ### How should I wash kids' clothing? Follow the care label, wash printed items inside out, and avoid high tumble dryer heat, which can shrink cotton and crack prints. Polycotton school and club wear usually keeps its shape and colour best. Source: [/collections/kids](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/kids) ### Which fabrics need the least ironing? Easy-care polycotton shirts and blouses need little or no ironing if you hang them straight from the wash. Polos and knitwear don't need ironing at all. Source: [/collections/industry-office](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/industry-office) ### Which fabric suits my job? Polycotton is durable and easy care, heavier cotton canvas is tough and breathable, and stretch blends move with you. For cold or wet work choose insulated or EN 343 trousers. Update: EN 343 has come off the GB and EU lists (replaced by EN ISO 24232:2025); garments certified to EN 343 still show it on the label. See https://www.theworkwearco.com/ai/standards.md. Source: [/collections/type-trousers](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/type-trousers) ### Does UPF drop when the fabric is wet or stretched? It can. Wet or stretched fabric may let more UV through, and UPF is tested on new, relaxed fabric. Choose a fit that isn't tight and replace garments that wear thin. Source: [/collections/clothing-uv-protection](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/clothing-uv-protection) ### Will a cotton T-shirt shrink? Pre-shrunk cotton shrinks very little if you wash it at the label temperature and avoid hot tumble drying. Source: [/collections/mens-t-shirts](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/mens-t-shirts) ### Can I wash a bucket hat? Most cotton bucket hats can be hand or gently machine washed. Check the care label. Source: [/collections/bucket-hats](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/bucket-hats) ### Which fabric is best for a women's work T-shirt? Ringspun cotton for softness, cotton blends for shape retention, and polyester for moisture wicking. See our [fabric weights guide](https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/guides/fabric-weights-gsm). Source: [/collections/womens-t-shirts](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/womens-t-shirts) ### Do men's hoodies shrink? Pre-shrunk fabrics shrink very little when washed at the label temperature and not tumble dried hot. Source: [/collections/mens-hoodies](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/mens-hoodies) ### Which fabric suits a women's polo? Polycotton pique is durable, cotton is soft, and performance polyester wicks sweat for active roles. Source: [/collections/womens-polo-shirts](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/womens-polo-shirts) ### How many washes will a hi-vis T-shirt last? Check the care label for the tested number of washes. After that, or once the colour fades, replace it. Source: [/collections/hi-vis-t-shirts](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/hi-vis-t-shirts) ### Will washing affect touchscreen use? It can over time. Follow the care label and replace gloves once the fingertips stop responding reliably. Source: [/collections/gloves-touchscreen](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/gloves-touchscreen) ### How should I wash a padded jacket? Follow the care label, use a low spin, and dry thoroughly so the filling doesn't clump. Source: [/collections/padded-jackets](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/padded-jackets) ### Which fabric is easiest to care for? Polyester and poly-blend fabrics are easy care, resist creasing and wash well. Source: [/collections/dresses-and-skirts](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/dresses-and-skirts) ### Can Cut B gloves be washed? Many can. Washing removes oil and dirt that reduce grip, but follow the care label and replace gloves once the knit is thin or holed. Source: [/collections/gloves-cut-b](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/gloves-cut-b) ### What material gives level 2 heat protection? Thick leather, aramid knits such as Kevlar, and layered or lined materials are common. Aramid gloves often add cut protection too. Source: [/collections/gloves-contact-heat-2](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/gloves-contact-heat-2) ### Can general handling gloves be washed? Many can. Follow the care label, as heat can harden some coatings. Gloves that are machine washable are usually labelled on the product page. Source: [/collections/general-handling-gloves](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/general-handling-gloves) ### How do I care for hi-vis shorts? Wash inside out at the temperature on the label and avoid fabric softener, which can affect the reflective tape. Source: [/collections/hi-vis-shorts](https://www.theworkwearco.com/collections/hi-vis-shorts)