Can You Wash Hi Vis Jackets? A Practical Guide for Tradespeople

If you rely on hi vis workwear for daily safety on site, then you already know how quickly your gear can get dirty—especially in the UK and Ireland’s unpredictable weather. But here’s a question we hear all the time at Tradeworx:

Can you wash hi vis jackets without damaging them?

The answer is yes—but with a few important rules. In this guide, we’ll explain how to wash your hi vis jacket properly, what to avoid, and how to make your investment last longer without compromising safety or visibility.

👉 Shop our full range of hi vis workwear here

 

Why Washing Hi Vis Jackets Matters

Hi vis jackets don’t just keep you warm—they keep you visible and compliant with safety regulations. Over time, dirt, oil, and grime can dull the fluorescent fabric and cover reflective strips, making the jacket less effective at helping you stay seen.

That’s why regular cleaning is essential—but it must be done correctly to avoid damaging the reflective elements or waterproof coatings.

 

Read the Care Label First

Before doing anything, check the label inside your jacket. Reputable brands like Snickers, Blåkläder, and Portwest include clear washing instructions on every garment.

For example, the Snickers AllroundWork High-Vis Insulated Jacket in Yellow/Steel Grey includes care instructions that preserve both the insulation and the high-vis finish. Follow these closely to maintain the jacket’s durability and safety rating.

 

General Tips for Washing Hi Vis Jackets

Here are some universal best practices for washing hi vis jackets:

✅ Do:

  • Wash at 40°C or lower (unless label specifies otherwise)

  • Use a gentle, non-bio detergent

  • Fasten zips, Velcro, and buttons before washing

  • Turn the jacket inside out to protect reflective tape

  • Air dry or tumble dry on low heat, if allowed

❌ Don’t:

  • Use bleach or harsh chemicals

  • Wash with heavily soiled workwear (like oily trousers)

  • Use fabric softeners (they can break down reflective material)

  • Iron reflective areas

 

How Often Should You Wash a Hi Vis Jacket?

This depends on how dirty your job gets. As a general rule:

  • Light use (warehouse, deliveries): Every 1–2 weeks

  • Outdoor/site work (construction, rail, utilities): After every few wears or when visibility is noticeably reduced

For regular wearers, having a spare hi vis jacket on rotation is a good idea. Consider adding something like the Portwest EV475 Hi Vis Hoodie in Orange/Black to your kit—easy to wash and perfect for layering.

 

What If My Jacket’s Reflectivity Fades?

Once the reflective tape is cracked, peeling, or no longer visible at night, the jacket is no longer compliant with EN ISO 20471 standards. That’s your cue to replace it.

Jackets like the Snickers 1138 AllroundWork High-Vis Insulated Jacket are designed to withstand multiple washes without losing visibility—but even the best jackets have a lifespan.

 

Final Thoughts

Yes, you can wash your hi vis jacket—in fact, you should. But it’s all about doing it the right way.

By following the care instructions, using the right products, and avoiding harsh chemicals, you’ll extend the life of your jacket and stay safe on the job.

At Tradeworx, we stock a full range of hi vis jackets, trousers, and hoodies that are built to last—whatever the site throws at them.

👉 Explore our full hi vis collection today

Stay clean. Stay seen. Stay safe.

Back to News