We're a trades-first laundry company building concentrated formulas that pull embedded job-site soil out in one wash — without bleach, softeners, or optical brighteners that wreck FR gear and reflective tape.
What makes welding gear different?
Most welding jackets, shirts, and bibs are flame-resistant. FR clothing is designed to resist ignition and self-extinguish depending on the garment rating — and that protection depends on the fabric, treatment, and how the garment is maintained.
Basic welding-gear wash rules
1. Read the garment care label first
FR welding garments vary by fabric and manufacturer. The care label is the first authority.
2. Knock off spatter and slag before washing
Brush or shake out hardened spatter and slag first so it doesn't grind into the fabric or other garments in the load.
3. Wash welding clothes separately
Keep them away from towels, linting fabrics, and household laundry — and away from oily rags that redeposit soil.
4. Use a clean-rinsing detergent
For welding work it also has to cut smoke, sweat, oil, and grease — not just freshen. Avoid fabric softener, chlorine bleach, and optical brighteners.
5. Pre-treat oil and grease before the dryer
Diesel, cutting oil, and grease should be pre-treated and fully removed before any dryer heat.
6. Air dry and inspect
Air drying is easier on FR fabric. Inspect for thin spots, burns, and damage before the gear goes back on the line.
How to get smoke smell out of welding clothes
- Separate the smoke-heavy garments and pre-treat any oil/grease spots.
- Let pre-treatment sit 10–15 minutes.
- Wash warm if the label allows, with a clean-rinsing workwear detergent.
- Air dry and smell-check before any dryer heat.
- Repeat if smoke odor remains — it's trapped soil, not just smell.
Ingredients to avoid on welding FR gear
- Fabric softener / dryer sheets — residue is the enemy on FR.
- Chlorine bleach — can damage fibers.
- Optical brighteners — leave residue; not ideal for FR.
- Starch — can create flammable buildup and stiffness.
Not sure which of these you're getting wrong? Take the free 60-second FR Laundry Mistake Checker — Take the FR Laundry Mistake Checker →