Cleaning a Life Jacket

Regular maintenance and cleaning of a life jacket are essential for ensuring its effectiveness and reliability when it matters most. Follow these steps to properly clean a life jacket.

• Inspect the Life Jacket: Before cleaning, inspect the life jacket for any visible signs of damage, such as tears, punctures, or worn-out components. Ensure all straps, buckles, and zippers are in good working condition.
• Remove the CO₂ Cylinder and Water-Sensing Element (Inflatable Only): If possible, detach the CO₂ cartridge and any water-sensing element from the life jacket according to the manufacturer's instructions. This prevents accidental activation during cleaning.
• Rinse With Fresh Water: Rinse the entire surface of the life jacket thoroughly with fresh water. Use a hose or a bucket of water to remove any salt, sand, or debris that may have accumulated during use. Pay attention to seams, pockets, and other hard-to-reach areas.
• Hand Wash With Mild Detergent: Do not machine wash, machine dry, or dry clean the life jacket. If you notice mold or mildew on the life jacket, fill a bucket with lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild detergent such as dish soap. Dip a soft sponge or cloth into the soapy water and gently scrub the surface of the life jacket. Focus on areas with stains or stubborn dirt buildup, but avoid excessive scrubbing, which could damage the fabric. Strong detergents can cause permanent damage to the vest or remove information printed on the material or labels. Markings and labels that cannot be read can render a life jacket unserviceable.
• Rinse Thoroughly: After washing, rinse the life jacket again with fresh water to remove any soap residue. Ensure that all detergent is completely rinsed off to prevent skin irritation or damage to the fabric.
• Air-Dry Completely: Hang the life jacket in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Do not use a machine dryer because it can damage life jacket material. For an inflatable life jacket, allow it to air-dry completely before reassembling the CO₂ cylinder and water-sensing element or storing it away. Ensure that both the outer fabric and the internal inflatable chambers are completely dry to prevent mold or mildew growth.
• Reassemble the Inflation Mechanism (Inflatable Only): Once the life jacket is dry, reattach the CO₂ cartridge and water-sensing element according to the manufacturer's instructions. Make sure all connections are secure and properly aligned to ensure the inflation mechanism functions correctly in an emergency.