If you have a tactical vest, you must ensure it is correctly cared for. This can ensure you get many years of use out of your vest and help you maintain its good looks. However, you also need to be aware of certain factors that can cause damage to your vest. For instance, you should be careful with cleaning and drying it. It would help if you also stored your vest correctly, keeping it away from heat and light. In addition, you should avoid using chemicals to clean it.
Proper storage
A tactical vest provides a safe and convenient way to store your ammunition and other self-defense equipment. While law enforcement officers commonly use tactical vests, they are also ideal for firefighters, hunters, and outdoor enthusiasts. The lightweight materials and versatile design of these vests allow you to maximize the space they provide.
Proper storage is a vital factor in extending the life of your tactical vest. During storage, the material should be kept from direct sunlight. This will ensure that it retains its protective properties.
Tactical vests typically use water-resistant Oxford fiber to minimize fatigue and damage. However, direct exposure to moisture can degrade its fibers, leading to a loss of ballistic protection.
To protect the ballistic panels, ensure concealed carry clothes for winter, flat surface, and away from direct sunlight. Never wash or bleach the boards with a liquid detergent, iron, or dryer.
Avoiding cleaning products with bleach
You don’t want to expose a plate carrier to high temperatures or harsh chemicals. While bleach is a great disinfectant, it’s something you’d like to use sparingly. The best way to do this is by using a mild laundry detergent. Also, be sure to lay your vest on its side to dry. This will help prevent fiber damage.
An excellent place to start is by using a mild soap and water mix to scrub off loose dirt and grime. Once done, you’ll need to lay the plate carrier on its side and let it dry. It’s not the most convenient thing to do, but it will keep your gear looking new. Plus, it’ll save you the embarrassment of showing up at a buddy’s house with a dirty vest.
If you’re in a pinch and forced to resort to the dreaded bleach, be sure to keep your wits about you. Be sure to use protective gloves and wear the proper eyewear if you’re doing the washing.
Avoid drying your body armor in direct sunlight.
When storing and cleaning your tactical vest, the proper care can mean the difference between a lifetime of wearing it or having to replace it. The manufacturer’s care instructions will give you tips on how to best store and maintain your armor.
Body armor should be stored in a dry, shady area away from direct sunlight and other damaging elements. This is particularly important if your vest is made from water-resistant material. If you must wash your vest, use mild detergent and warm water. Don’t use bleach or chemicals because these can harm delicate fabrics freshersweb.com.
Ballistic panels should never be cleaned with a washing machine. Instead, hand-sponging with a soft cloth and mild detergent is recommended. Be sure to dry the panels flat without direct heat.
You should avoid storing your bulletproof vest in the sun or a dryer, as heat and moisture will degrade the ballistic fibers in the panels. Avoid hanging your vest on straps, as this can stretch the fabric and result in an uneven fit.
Keeping your vest odor free
A ballistic vest is designed to protect you from bullets, but if you’ve been wearing it for a while, you might begin to smell an unpleasant odor. There are several ways to prevent and treat this odor.
The first step is to read the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. This will help you to avoid using harsh chemicals and dry cleaning. Instead, you can clean your carrier vest with mild detergent. You should also avoid tumble drying it.
When you clean your plate carrier vest, it’s essential to remove all inserts. If the vest has SAPI plates, removing them is especially important. Also, it would help if you keep your carrier in a safe place.
Avoid storing your armor in a foot locker, car trunk, or garage. Keeping it this way will weaken the fabric and compromise its protective qualities.
One solution is to air-dry your gear. Many manufacturers recommend that you do this.
