Custom Racing Suit
Get Started for FREE
Top 7 Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Your Racing Fire Suit
Maintaining your fire-resistant racing suit is crucial for both safety and durability. Suits made from fire-retardant materials like Nomex® are designed to withstand extreme conditions, but improper cleaning can weaken their protective features.
At FervoGear, we understand the importance of keeping your racing suit in peak condition for both safety and performance. Our recommended cleaning practices are designed to protect the fabric’s integrity, extend its lifespan, and maintain its fire-resistant properties.
| Mistake | Why It’s Harmful | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Using Harsh Detergents or Bleach | Damages fire-retardant properties | Use mild detergent like Woolite |
| Exposing to Direct Sunlight | UV weakens fire-resistant material | Dry indoors in a shaded area |
| Machine Washing Without Care | Increases risk of fabric wear | Use garment wash bag, delicate cycle |
| Using High Heat | Weakens fire-retardant coating | Drip dry at room temperature |
| Not Cleaning Suit at All | Oil and grime reduce fire protection | Wash occasionally using correct methods |
| Ignoring Manufacturer’s Instructions | Leads to improper care and damage | Follow brand-specific care guidelines |
| Neglecting Aftercare | Sweat and dirt buildup can weaken protection | Hang suit to dry, check for damage |
Each of these mistakes can seriously impact the effectiveness and lifespan of your fire-retardant racing suit. While the table above gives you a quick snapshot of what to avoid and how to care for your suit, understanding these points in detail will help you avoid costly mistakes and keep your suit performing at its best.
Below, we’ll go through each issue and solution one by one, explaining why they matter and how small adjustments to your care routine can make a big difference.
1. Using Harsh Detergents or Bleach
One of the most common mistakes people make when cleaning their fire-resistant racing suits is using harsh detergents or bleach. These suits are crafted from specialized materials, like Nomex®, that are treated to resist flames and high heat.
However, strong chemicals in regular detergents or bleach can strip away the suit’s fire-retardant coating, making it less effective in protecting you during a race. When you use harsh detergents, the chemicals can slowly break down the fibers in the fabric. This not only reduces the suit’s ability to protect against flames but also makes the material weaker over time, meaning it could tear or wear out faster than expected.
The same goes for bleach, which is far too strong for fire-resistant fabrics. Bleach might make the suit look cleaner temporarily, but it damages the fabric, ultimately putting your safety at risk.
Now, you will be thinking what to use instead? So, always choose a non-abrasive, gentle detergent specifically made for delicate fabrics. Woolite® is one such option, as it effectively cleans without damaging the fire-resistant layer.
A Pro Tip: Remember, your racing suit is not like regular clothing. It’s a specialized piece of gear designed to keep you safe, so treat it with care. A little extra effort in selecting the right cleaning product can go a long way in maintaining the suit’s durability and safety features.
2. Exposing the Suit to Direct Sunlight
Another mistake to avoid is drying your racing suit in direct sunlight. Many people assume that drying clothes outside in the sun is a good way to speed up the process. However, for fire-resistant fabrics, this approach can do more harm than good. Materials like Nomex are sensitive to UV rays from the sun, which can weaken the fibers in the fabric.
When the suit is exposed to sunlight repeatedly, the UV rays gradually break down the fire-resistant properties. Over time, this makes the suit less reliable in high-heat situations. The protective layer starts to deteriorate, which could compromise your safety during a race.
Instead of drying your suit in the sun, find an indoor area with good ventilation. Hang the suit in a shaded, well-ventilated space to let it dry naturally without exposing it to direct sunlight. Indoor drying takes a bit longer, but it’s the safest way to ensure that your suit retains its strength and fire-retardant qualities.
Your racing suit is an investment in your safety, so drying it properly is just as important as cleaning it correctly. Avoiding sunlight exposure can help the suit last longer and stay effective, giving you peace of mind when you’re out on the track.
3. Machine Washing Without Proper Care
Many people believe that machine washing is convenient, but when it comes to fire-resistant racing suits, machine washing can be risky. The rough and fast motions inside a washing machine can damage the suit’s delicate fibers.
However, if you don’t have time for hand washing and must use a machine, there are some steps you can take to minimize the risk:
- Use a Garment Wash Bag: Placing your suit in a garment wash bag helps reduce the friction against the drum, protecting the fabric from wear.
- Close All Velcro and Fastenings: Open Velcro or zippers can catch on other parts of the suit, causing pulls or tears. Make sure everything is securely fastened.
- Select Cold Water on Delicate Cycle: Hot water and fast cycles can be harsh on fire-resistant materials. Cold water on a delicate cycle is much gentler, keeping the fabric intact and preserving its protective coating.
Ideally, hand washing is the safest method for cleaning your racing suit, as it offers more control and gentleness. However, if you follow these steps, you can machine wash with reduced risk, helping your suit last longer while keeping its fire-resistant features.
4. Using High Heat for Drying
Using high heat when drying or ironing the suit is another mistake that can reduce its fire resistance. High temperatures can break down the suit’s fire-retardant fibers, affecting its overall safety.
The best approach is to air-dry the suit indoors at room temperature. Drip-drying is the gentlest method, letting the fabric dry naturally without exposing it to damaging heat. If you’re in a rush, resist the urge to use a dryer. Instead, try to plan your washing schedule in advance so you can allow enough time for air-drying.
This small adjustment in drying can make a big difference in the lifespan of your suit. By avoiding high heat, you preserve the suit’s fire-retardant properties, ensuring it’s in top condition for every race.
5. Neglecting to Clean the Suit Regularly
Some believe that washing a racing suit too often can wear it down, but failing to clean it can be equally damaging. Racing suits are exposed to oils, dirt, and sweat, which can build up and impact the suit’s protective properties.
The sweat, oils, and dirt trapped in the suit can create a layer that affects the fabric’s fire resistance. Over time, this buildup can harden or weaken certain areas, compromising the suit’s performance. That’s why it’s essential to clean the suit occasionally.
A thorough but gentle wash every now and then helps remove these impurities without putting unnecessary wear on the fabric.
However, be cautious not to over-wash. Washing the suit too frequently can weaken the fabric fibers, making it prone to tears. Balance is key, so clean it often enough to maintain its safety, but not so much that it wears out prematurely.
6. Ignoring the Manufacturer’s Care Instructions
Each racing suit brand may have specific cleaning instructions tailored to the fabric’s unique properties. Ignoring these guidelines could lead to unintentional damage or reduce the suit’s lifespan. Racing suits from different brands often have specific care requirements.
For example, we at FervoGear recommends dry cleaning as the best option for preserving the suit’s fire-retardant coating, while others might advise against machine washing altogether. If you don’t follow these instructions, you might unintentionally damage the fabric, making the suit less effective in protecting you.
Always read and follow the care label on your racing suit. It may include important details about the types of detergents to use, whether to dry clean, or specific washing temperatures. Taking a few minutes to review these instructions can make a big difference in the suit’s performance and longevity.
Note: Remember, each suit is built differently, and the manufacturer knows what’s best for maintaining its quality and safety features.
7. Skipping Aftercare After Each Use
Taking care of your fire-resistant racing suit doesn’t end once the race is over. Aftercare is essential to keep the suit in good condition between washes. Even if the suit looks clean, it can still hold moisture, sweat, and odors from the race. Ignoring this can lead to unpleasant smells, stains, and even reduce the fabric’s lifespan over time.
After every race or practice session, your suit absorbs moisture and sweat. If you don’t take steps to air it out, this moisture can become trapped in the fabric, causing it to smell and potentially weakening the material. Regular aftercare helps the suit stay fresh, comfortable, and ready for the next event.
- Hang the Suit in a Ventilated Area: After each use, find a well-ventilated spot to hang your suit. This allows any trapped moisture to evaporate naturally, which helps prevent the fabric from developing odors.
- Avoid Closed Spaces: Don’t leave the suit in a gym bag or locker after the race. Keeping it in a closed space traps moisture and encourages odors and bacteria to build up.
- Inspect for Spots or Stains: Give the suit a quick look for any stains or marks, especially areas that may have come into contact with oils or dirt. Treat any visible stains as soon as possible to avoid permanent marks.
These simple aftercare practices take just a few minutes but can make a big difference in extending the life of your suit. By letting the suit dry out and checking it for spots, you keep it fresh, clean, and safe for your next race.
Your fire-resistant racing suit is a vital safety tool. Avoiding these common mistakes, such as using harsh detergents, exposing the suit to sunlight, or ignoring aftercare, will help you maintain the suit’s protective qualities and longevity. With the proper care, your suit will continue to keep you safe on the track.
John Smith is a respected Safety Engineer at FervoGear LLC, with over 15 years’ experience in the motorsport industry. Known for designing innovative safety technologies, his expertise and reliability are widely recognized. A frequent contributor to industry journals, John’s commitment to safety and motorsport makes him a trusted figure in this vibrant sector.
