Hi-vis gear isn’t just clothing; it’s a promise you’ll be seen, stay safe, and be ready for the day ahead. Whether you’re on a construction site, directing traffic, or working roadside at dawn, your hi-vis vest, shirt, or jacket is as important as your tools. But let’s face it, work is tough on clothes. Stains, grime, UV, and endless wash cycles can quickly kill that bright, reflective look you paid for.
So, how do you keep your hi-vis workwear looking sharp and functional for as long as possible? Here are some practical, easy-to-remember tips you can actually use:
1. Don’t Just Toss It in with the Rest of the Laundry
We’re all busy, but resist the urge to throw your hi-vis gear in with greasy jeans or work socks. Heavy-duty dirt or dark dyes can transfer, dulling that vibrant color you need to stand out. Always wash your hi-vis separately in a dedicated load to avoid cross-contamination. Think of it as special treatment for gear that protects you.
2. Choose a Gentle Detergent (and Skip the Bleach)
It’s tempting to “nuke” stains with harsh chemicals, but aggressive detergents and bleach can destroy fluorescent fabric and reflective tape. Go for mild, color-safe detergents without optical brighteners. They’re strong enough to clean but gentle enough to keep colors blazing. Remember, bleach doesn’t make your yellow vest more yellow, it actually wrecks it.
3. Turn It Inside Out Before Washing
Here’s a small trick that pays off big. Turning your hi-vis garments inside out protects the reflective tape from abrasion in the wash cycle. Less friction means less wear. It also reduces fading from direct contact with other items. Think of it as a simple shield for your most important feature.
4. Cold or Warm Water Is Your Friend
High heat is a killer for hi-vis. It fades color, weakens fibers, and can cause reflective tape to peel or crack over time. Stick to cold or warm water when washing. It’s effective enough to clean without punishing the fabric.
5. Air Dry Whenever You Can
We get it, sometimes you need your gear dry now. But the dryer’s high heat can shorten the life of your reflective tape faster than you think. When you can, hang-dry your workwear in the shade since UV exposure can also fade it. If you must use a dryer, go for the lowest heat setting possible.
6. Spot Clean Immediately
Spilled coffee? Mud splash? Don’t wait for wash day. Spot cleaning keeps small stains from setting in and reduces the number of full washes you need overall. The fewer trips through the machine, the longer your hi-vis will last.
7. Inspect Before You Wear
Treat your hi-vis like safety equipment, not just clothes. Before you put it on, check for damage. Is the reflective tape intact? Is the color still bright enough to be seen? Small rips or peeling tape can make the garment non-compliant or unsafe. Address issues early instead of finding out too late on the job site.
8. Store It Right
Finally, don’t crumple your hi-vis vest in the back of your truck or toss it under the seat. Fold or hang it somewhere dry, cool, and out of direct sunlight. Prolonged UV exposure fades color, while moisture can encourage mildew. A few seconds of care at the end of the day can add months to its life.
Keeping your hi-vis workwear in top shape isn’t rocket science, but it does take a little intention. And let’s be honest, you rely on that bright, reflective color to stay safe on the job. Giving it the care it deserves is one of the simplest ways to look out for yourself and your wallet.
If you’re investing in good-quality hi-vis gear, make sure it serves you well, season after season. A little extra effort today pays off in safety and savings tomorrow.
Explore our full Hi-Vis Collection to find the gear that works as hard as you do.
