NFPA has published a user guide, NFPA for the Selection, Care, and Maintenance of Firefighting Protective Ensembles. This document, as well as the FEMSA guide we provide with each set of turnout gear, offers instructions for inspection, cleaning and repair. The following highlights key points for cleaning and repairing your gear. 

Routine Cleaning

For spot cleaning use a soft bristled brush and water.

Do not use high velocity water jets or heavy scrubbing.

A utility sink designed for PPE can be used for spot cleaning, as well.

If necessary, pre-treatment can be used for heavily soiled spots.

Do not use chlorine bleach or active ingredient cleaning agents.

If necessary, use a mild detergent with pH in the range of 6.0 - 10.5.

Make sure the water temperature used does not exceed 105ºF.

Rinse thoroughly.

Advanced Cleaning (every 6 months)

Only trained personnel should perform advanced cleaning.

See our list of recommended Clean and Repair facilities.

Routine (Field Repairs)

Patch minor tears, char marks, and ember burns.

Repairing broken or missing stitches.

Replacing missing hardware, excluding positive closure systems.

All repairs should be made using NFPA complaint fabrics and materials.

Advanced Repairs

*Only trained personnel or approved clean & repair facilities should perform repairs.

We recommend the following clean and repair facilities.

Northwest Safetyclean     5055 SE Layfayette St     Portland, OR  97026     phone: (503) 775-2114     fax: (503) 775-1418	Shamrock Gear & Repair 9522 E. Main St.  East Sparta, OH  44626 phone: (330) 313-1220  fax: (330) 313-1666
Gear Cleaning Soultions 2647 Manana Drive Dallas, TX  75220 phone: (214) 774-2213 fax: (214) 774-2438	Maryland Fire Equipment Corp.     12284 Wilkins Ave     Rockville, MD  20852     phone (301) 881-2713     fax: (301) 881-3477
Gear Wash     657 S. 72nd St, Unit A     Milwaukee, WI  53214     phone: (414) 476-4327     fax: (414) 918-4727	Sani-Gear, Canada 397 Wyld Street North Bay, Ontario CANADA P1B1Z3 phone: (705) 494-4545 fax: (705) 494-8405
Freds 2 The Rescue 644 Versailles Rd Frankfort, KY  40601 phone: (866) 377-5569     fax: (502)515-6875	Georgian Firegear Service, Canada 28 Currie St Barrie, Ontario, CANADA  L4M5N4 phone: (705) 737-1796
911 Safety Equipment       329 East Main St       Norristown, PA  19401       phone: (866) 370-7800       fax: (610) 279-6806