Whether you're in construction, catering, hospitality, or engineering, your workwear is exposed to tough conditions every day. High-quality uniforms are an investment - but their longevity depends on how well you care for them.
From washing workwear correctly to choosing the right cleaning routine, this guide offers practical workwear care tips for UK employers and employees alike. Read on to learn how to clean work clothes safely, prevent cross-contamination, and maintain safety standards.
- 1. Use Antibacterial Wipes on Waterproof Uniforms
- 2. Wash Fabric Garments at High Temperatures
- 3. Choose Long-Lasting, Practical Footwear
- 4. Avoid Cross-Contamination: Wash Items Separately
- 5. Use Disposable Workwear for Messy Tasks
- 6. Follow Manufacturer’s Care Instructions
- 7. Replace Worn Uniform Items Promptly
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Key Takeaways for Workwear Care Tips
1. Use Antibacterial Wipes on Waterproof Uniforms
Waterproof items like gloves, aprons, or jackets used in chemical-heavy or messy environments can be wiped down with antibacterial wipes between full washes. This is a fast, cost-effective way to reduce surface germs and prolong garment life - especially in kitchens, labs, or industrial sites.
2. Wash Fabric Garments at High Temperatures
One of the most essential workwear care tips is to wash uniforms in hot water (as per care label instructions) using a biological detergent. These detergents break down food, bodily fluids, and other organic matter.
This is particularly important when washing workwear for catering, healthcare, and factory staff where hygiene is a priority.
3. Choose Long-Lasting, Practical Footwear
Footwear is one of the most hard-wearing parts of any uniform. Choose durable, well-gripped shoes or boots to minimise wear and risk. Proper footwear is crucial in environments like commercial kitchens or construction sites, where slips and trips are a daily hazard.
By investing in quality shoes, you’ll reduce the frequency of replacements - saving money long-term.
4. Avoid Cross-Contamination: Wash Items Separately
Cleaning work clothes together without considering their use can pose serious hygiene risks. Never wash chemical-contaminated overalls with catering uniforms like aprons or chef hats. Cross-contamination in the wash can spread dangerous residues.
Group and wash items by use:
- Food-handling uniforms
- Heavy-duty/chemical-exposed gear
- General day-to-day workwear
5. Use Disposable Workwear for Messy Tasks
Disposable aprons, gloves, and overshoes offer temporary protection for messy or hazardous tasks. Over-washing can fade branding, damage stitching, and reduce the lifespan of your uniforms. Using disposables where appropriate keeps your core workwear in better condition, especially in kitchens or healthcare.
6. Follow Manufacturer’s Care Instructions
Most garments will include a care label with the recommended cleaning temperature and drying methods. Following these guidelines ensures uniforms retain their shape, safety qualities (e.g. fire resistance), and fit.
Note: Cotton and polyester absorb heat differently - and may lose protective properties if worn wet or incorrectly washed.
7. Replace Worn Uniform Items Promptly
Even with the best care routine, uniform items don’t last forever. If an apron is fraying or a boot loses its grip, it becomes a risk rather than a safeguard.
Regularly inspect uniforms and replace items when:
- Seams begin to split
- Reflective strips fade
- Safety soles wear thin
- The garment no longer fits well
Key Takeaways for Workwear Care Tips
- Wipe waterproof items down with antibacterial wipes to keep them clean between washes.
- Wash fabric uniforms at high temperatures with biological detergent.
- Clean different uniform types separately to prevent contamination.
- Use disposables during messy tasks to preserve core uniform garments.
- Follow care labels and replace worn or damaged items regularly.
FAQs
Can you wash work uniforms with regular clothes?
You should avoid washing work uniforms with everyday clothing, especially if they’ve been exposed to chemicals, oils, or food. This reduces the risk of cross-contamination and protects household garments from damage.
What’s the best detergent for cleaning work clothes?
Use biological detergents for most workwear - they’re excellent at removing organic matter like sweat, food, and grease. For sensitive skin or delicate fabrics, switch to a non-bio option but pre-treat stains separately.
How often should I wash my work uniform?
This depends on your role. In hygiene-focused roles (e.g. food, healthcare), daily washing is often required. For construction or industrial sites, uniform should be washed after each shift where dirt, oil, or chemical exposure occurs.
Learn More About Our Workwear Apparel at Cobra Workwear
Caring for your workwear properly isn’t just about cleanliness - it’s about protecting your team, extending garment life, and maintaining a professional appearance. From using antibacterial wipes to washing with care, these small steps make a big impact.
Need help sourcing low-maintenance uniforms for your team? Contact Cobra Workwear or explore our range of workwear bundles, from branded polo shirts to custom soft shell jackets. We’re here to help you choose garments built to last and easy to look after.
