WHAT DOES THE NUMBER OF WASHES MEAN IN A CERTIFIED GARMENT?

Some protection parameters are more negatively affected by washing and drying than others. Therefore, evaluating the protective functions of the garment after washing is part of the certification process. Evaluation is generally done after 5 washes or the maximum number of washes determined by the manufacturer. This information is stated on the label inside the garment. If the number of washes is not stated the garment have been tested after five wash cycles.

These tests are performed in a lab environment, without use between washes. The washing process is only one of many external factors that can affect a garment’s protection properties. In practice, a protective garment may be completely compromised after one use if it becomes permanently soiled, torn, or contaminated. Likewise, protective functions may still be intact even after the number of certified wash cycles has been exceeded.. 

For protective garments, evaluating protection after washing is a mandatory requirement in the certification process. General wear and tear of the garment is not evaluated, as long as the protective features remain intact.