Can You Wash Hi Vis Jackets? A Tradesperson’s Guide
After a few long days (or weeks) on site, it’s no surprise when your hi vis jacket starts to show signs of wear—mud splashes, oil marks, dust, and general grime. But that leads to a question we hear regularly from tradespeople:
Can you wash hi vis jackets without ruining them?
The short answer is yes, you can—but only if you do it the right way. Hi vis jackets, much like your workwear trousers, are essential for keeping you safe, seen, and comfortable. So looking after them properly means they’ll look after you on the job.
👉 Check out our full range of hi vis jackets here
Why You Need to Be Careful Washing Hi Vis Jackets
Hi vis jackets are made with fluorescent fabric and reflective strips that help keep you visible on-site, especially in low-light or high-traffic environments. But if washed incorrectly, that reflective material can lose effectiveness, fade, or peel—ultimately compromising your safety.
That’s why it’s essential to follow care guidelines properly, just like you would for your favourite pair of workwear trousers.
Best Practices for Washing Hi Vis Jackets
Here’s how to keep your jacket clean without damaging its visibility or durability:
✅ Always Read the Label
Different jackets have different materials and care instructions. Look for the washing temperature and any special recommendations from the manufacturer.
✅ Use a Gentle Wash
Stick to 30°C–40°C. Higher heat can break down the reflective materials and fade the fluorescent fabric.
✅ Choose Mild Detergents
Avoid bleach, fabric softeners, and strong chemicals—they can ruin reflective tape and degrade waterproof coatings.
✅ Wash Separately
Washing your hi vis jacket with heavy, abrasive items (like workwear trousers or towels) can cause pilling and damage to reflective surfaces.
✅ Air Dry
If possible, hang your jacket to dry. Tumble drying—especially on high heat—can shrink or warp the material and reduce visibility.
👉 Shop durable hi vis jackets made to last
Jackets That Can Handle the Job (and the Wash)
At Tradeworx, we stock hi vis jackets from Snickers, Portwest, and Blåkläder—designed for the demands of real job sites and made to withstand regular cleaning when cared for properly.
🔹 Portwest T400 PW3 Hi Vis Winter Jacket – Yellow
This heavy-duty winter jacket offers thermal insulation, weather protection, and Class 3 visibility. Washable and built for durability, it’s a great option for those who work outdoors year-round.
🔹 Snickers 1138 AllroundWork High Vis Insulated Jacket – Yellow/Steel Grey
Ideal for colder months, this insulated jacket combines comfort, warmth, and hi vis safety. With proper care, it will stay bright and visible wash after wash.
🔹 Snickers 8134 High Vis Class 2 Light Padded Jacket
This lighter option is perfect for transitional weather. It’s padded but breathable, and holds up well to regular washing—as long as you follow the care instructions.
Final Tip: Don’t Overwash
While it’s important to keep your hi vis jacket clean, overwashing it can accelerate wear. Unless it’s heavily soiled or starting to smell, try to spot clean small stains and save machine washes for when it’s really needed—just like you would with your workwear trousers.
Stay Clean, Stay Seen
Yes, you can absolutely wash your hi vis jackets—but doing it right is key to keeping them compliant and long-lasting. At Tradeworx, we stock jackets built to handle tough conditions and repeated use, so you can stay safe and visible without sacrificing comfort or durability.
👉 Explore our full range of hi vis jackets now
From waterproof winter jackets to lightweight padded layers, we've got the gear to keep you seen, safe, and site-ready—whatever the weather.