PBI/Kevlar®

Care & Cleaning Information for PBI/Kevlar®

The flame resistant characteristics of PBI/Kevlar® are inherent in the fibers and unaffected by washing.

Avoid storing PBI/Kevlar® garments in direct sunlight or under artificial lighting. Fabric colors will fade on exposure to ultraviolet lighting. Store garments in lockers, drawers, or in closets.

Flame resistant garments should be removed immediately and replaced with clean FR apparel if they become fouled with flammable materials.

Flame resistant apparel should be washed using soft water (less than 4.0 grains). Hard water adversely affects cleaning, resulting in increased detergent usage. Hard water contains mineral salts that can form insoluble deposits on the surface of fabrics. Sufficient buildup can negate the flame resistant characteristics of the garment, and may serve as fuel if garments are exposed to an ignition source.


HOME WASH

  • Wash and dry separately to avoid accumulation of lint that may contribute to pilling.

  • Pre-treat greasy, oily stains and do not overload the washer to help insure removal of soils. If home procedures do not completely remove all potentially flammable soils, commercial laundering or dry cleaning should be considered.

  • Wash in hot (120ºF) or warm (105ºF) water using any typical home laundry detergent. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for usage. Do not use tallow soaps.

  • Do not use chlorine bleach or detergents that contain chlorine bleach. Do not use fabric softeners or starch on any flame resistant apparel as these can coat fibers and mask the FR performance.

  • The use of conditioned or soft water can help improve removal of contaminants from garments. Hard water precipitates soaps and can result in the build-up of calcium and magnesium salts. These can serve as fuel in the event they are exposed to a source of ignition.

  • Do not over dry garments. If pressing is desired, use only a warm setting such as permanent press.

    • DRY CLEAN

  • Either perchloroethylene or petroleum solvent can be used. With petroleum, it is necessary to ensure that all solvent has been completely dried from the garments.

    • REPAIR & MENDING

  • Minor repairs that do not affect the integrity of the garment may be made using like materials by either heat sealing or sewing on patches or darning small holes.


    • The information in this bulletin is based on the results of testing in Bulwark's laboratory and information from the fabric vendor. It is provided for your guidance and knowledge. As of the publication date, this bulletin contains up to date information on care and cleaning. Please visit Bulwark's website at www.bulwark.com for the latest information.