How to Wash and Care for Work Coveralls (and When to Replace Them)
A good coverall is an investment. Look after it well and it will protect your workers for months, keep its colour and stay comfortable. Neglect it, and grease, sweat and harsh washing will wear it out long before its time. Here is how to get the most from your coveralls.
Always check the care label first
Every coverall comes with care instructions from the manufacturer. Follow them. This is especially important for flame-retardant coveralls such as Safeguard C, where the wrong washing method can reduce protection.
Washing cotton coveralls: the basics
- Empty the pockets: pens, screws and tissues can damage the fabric and your machine.
- Close the zip and storm flap: this stops the zip from snagging the fabric.
- Turn it inside out: this protects the outer colour and any reflective tape.
- Wash with similar colours: navy, petrol blue and grey coveralls can release dye, especially in the first few washes.
- Use a moderate temperature: warm water cleans well without shrinking cotton or damaging tape. Follow the label's maximum.
- Skip the bleach: bleach weakens cotton fibres, fades colour and can ruin reflective tape.
Dealing with tough stains
- Grease and oil: work a little washing-up liquid or a degreaser into the stain before washing. Let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Mud and dust: let mud dry, then brush off as much as possible before washing.
- Sweat marks: soak in cool water with a little detergent before the main wash.
Wash heavily soiled coveralls separately from everyday clothes, so oil and chemicals do not transfer. For one-off messy jobs such as painting, disposable coveralls can be a better option.
Drying
Line drying in the shade is gentle and works well in the UAE climate. Direct midday sun can fade colours over time. If you use a tumble dryer, choose a low or medium heat to reduce shrinkage and protect reflective tape.
Storage
Store clean coveralls hung up or neatly folded in a dry place. Keep them away from chemicals, fuel and direct sunlight. Keep clean and dirty workwear apart.
When is it time to replace a coverall?
Even the best coverall will not last forever. Replace it when you see:
- Holes, tears or worn-through patches, especially at the knees, elbows and seat.
- A zip that no longer closes properly.
- Seams that are coming apart.
- Reflective tape that is cracked, peeling or no longer reflects well (a reflective coverall is an affordable replacement).
- Stains from oil or chemicals that will not wash out, which can be a safety risk.
- Any damage at all on a flame-retardant coverall.
A damaged coverall gives a false sense of protection. When in doubt, replace it.
Keep spares on hand
Most workers need at least two or three coveralls, so one can be worn while another is washed. Keeping a small stock of spares in common sizes means nobody has to wear dirty or damaged workwear.
Restock with durable, affordable options from our coveralls collection, with free shipping within the UAE.
Related reading: Coverall Sizing Guide: Getting the Fit Right · Best Coveralls for Mechanics and Automotive Workshops · Best Coveralls for Construction Workers in Dubai · How to Maintain and Clean Your Hearing Protection Devices