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Care and cleaning of your bulletproof vest

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Alex Nilson
Care and cleaning of your bulletproof vest

The ballistic vest or bulletproof vest along with its armor inserts is the most crucial body armor for a police officer—however, many times, they do not know how to prolong the life of this garment. Taking care of your equipment is not difficult, but you must know how to do it. 

Here are some tips.

Always read the label.

In general, we do not read the garments' labels, but if we want them to last and be used correctly, we must get in the habit of reading them, whether they are integrated into the label, on the packaging, or in an application. Following them to the letter will help avoid damaging your vest and could void your warranty. 

The instructions tell you how to clean and how you should store your equipment.

Do not submerge the armor.

The bulletproof vest stops bullets, but it is not machine washable, nor is it submerged in rivers, lakes, seas, etc. In general, the panels are inside an airtight sleeve, which, if not well sealed, can damage the vest and fibers.

Wetting the fabric can damage the material, loosening and causing it to break down, increasing the trauma value of the impact.

Clean the armor

When we say that it cannot be machine washed, it does not mean that you cannot clean it, you sweat, and it gets dirty; therefore, you need to renew it with just a little soap, water, and a clean cloth. We recommend you clean it more often in the hot season. Use mild detergents like baby ones. When cleaning it, make sure everything is still in perfect condition. 

Hang up your armor

If the equipment is not machine washable, less throw it into a tumble dryer. You need to hang it up and let it air dry. Store your vest in a cool, dry place to help extend its shelf life.

Save your guarantee well.

If for any reason you need to have your vest repaired, you must keep your documents for reference, with serial number, proof of purchase, and date of purchase. These documents have information on the certified service life to know when it must be renewed.

Clean ballistic or bulletproof panels

Periodically clean the ballistic panels. To do this, remove these from your carrier, and on a flat surface, use a semi-damp sponge and mild soap to clean it; let it dry in the shade. Never use a washing machine, dryer, or iron.

Stay fit or buy new armor.

When you choose your bulletproof vest, the size is determined based on your existing build and weight. It is essential to select the extent that is comfortable and safe for you.

The carrier without panels does not provide any protection

You must differentiate between the page and the ballistic panels. A ballistic vest or bulletproof vest is made up of a page and a pair of ballistic panels. The page without the panels becomes just any tactical vest.

Ballistic or bulletproof does not mean anti stabbing

The bulletproof vests can also be anti-stab vests. For this, the manufacturer must specify and guarantee it. Otherwise, it should be understood that being a bulletproof vest and having the ability to stop ammunition does not withstand stab wounds.

What to do after a gunshot impact

Once you receive the impact of ammunition, it will be necessary to replace the damaged ballistic panel and the carrier.

Put on ballistic or bulletproof diapers correctly.

Ballistic panels must be handled correctly and as indicated on the labels they have. It is common to identify the impact face on the panels using a brand that marks it. Place both panels correctly and in the correct position. The customarily shaped rear panel is different from the front panel, and the impact faces should always point outwards.

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Alex Nilson
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