Workwear is robust and tear-resistant to protect you from injuries on the job. To ensure this function lasts, your garments need the right care. Above all, the cleaning method determines the longevity of workwear.
Washing workwear – basic care tips for workwear
High-quality workwear, which combines practicality and individuality – that's what engelbert strauss stands for. The manufacturer of robust functional clothing, founded in 1948, values a 'we-culture' akin to a circle of friends. Accordingly, it focuses on maximum comfort and quality standards in production. So that your working outfit withstands the challenges of your job for a long time, you can find tips on the engelbert strauss website on how to wash and care for your workwear. Before you:
- Work trousers,
- Work jackets,
- Work aprons,
- Work coats
- Functional underwear or
- Functional socks
When cleaning, check the care label. If you follow the instructions, nothing stands in the way of an effective wash. Predominantly flame-retardant garments are not suitable for industrial laundering. If your workwear is made of cotton, aramid or modacrylic, pay attention to the recommended temperatures and wash programs when caring for it.
Although you follow the instructions, workwear can shrink by up to three percent. This is a normal and expected reaction of the fibers. This effect is particularly noticeable during the first three to four washes. As soon as you put on your outfit, the textile fibers stretch again. Take the garment's shrinkage into account when purchasing.
Note that an overly dry outfit shrinks more than normal clothing. In addition, hard water impairs the cleaning process. Mineral salts deposit in the fabric. The residues increase the flammability of your clothing. They act as an accelerant. Also avoid starch and fabric softener when washing your workwear.
After each wash, check whether it is intact and functional. If it has holes or tears, there is an increased risk of accidents and injuries in the next use. The defects require that the workwear be replaced.
When do you wash your workwear?
The long-awaited holiday is just around the corner and your work clothes urgently need a wash. Heavy soiling damages the textile structure. If it remains on the fibers for an extended period, it makes care more difficult. Certain substances on clothing increase the risk of textile damage. When asking whether to wash your outfit before or after the holiday, consider the possible consequences of cleaning it too late.
To be able to use your functional clothing again after time off without fearing loss of function, immediate washing after use is recommended. Put your garments in the washing machine and dry them on the line or in the tumble dryer. Do not store work clothing if it is not completely dry. Also avoid storing it in direct sunlight. UV radiation causes fading.
Who pays for the cleaning costs?
If you wear necessary safety or protective clothing at work, your employer is legally obliged to cover the cleaning costs. This is set out in Paragraph 71 of the Employee Protection Act. It is different for ordinary work clothing: if you wash these at home in the machine or have them cleaned outside, you will be responsible for the cleaning costs in both cases.
Cleaning workwear: wash it yourself or leave it to a professional?
If your regular work clothes are soiled, you can put them in the washing machine without problems. Avoid detergents and additives with a pH that is too high or too low. Before you put the outfit in the machine, fasten all zippers or Velcro closures to protect against textile damage. If it is heavily soiled protective clothing, you will need the services of a dry cleaner.
A professional cleaning freed your safety clothing effectively from contaminants – even when they are not water-soluble. This applies, for example, to residues of fats, bitumen or oils. Furthermore, it is recommended for High-visibility clothing, which requires a special impregnation.
Image: © Copyright by engelbert strauss
