Can Elvex ProChaps be washed without destroying the protective properties?
The Prolar fibers expand when washed in a washing machine, and this actually improves the protective properties. In fact prior to performing the ASTM tests, the protective pad (Prolar) of the chain saw chaps are preconditioned by being washed five times (at 140 +-10 degrees Fahrenheit), and then dried in a tumbler for 30 minutes. You can wash Elvex ProChaps in the washing machine, but do not use hot temperature for either washing or drying. Depending on the settings on your washing machine and dryer, use warm or cold setting, but not hot. Do not use the temperatures used for the pads prior to testing, since the protective pad and the cover fabric may experience uneven shrinkage. Observe, that Kevlar (Dupont brand, not use in Elvex ProChaps) protective pads deteriorate after washing, why we do not recommend that you apply these washing instructions for chain saw caps equipped with Kevlar pads. Return to top of page!
The Prolar fibers expand when washed in a washing machine, and this actually improves the protective properties. In fact prior to performing the ASTM tests, the protective pad (Prolar) of the chain saw chaps are preconditioned by being washed five times (at 140 +-10 degrees Fahrenheit), and then dried in a tumbler for 30 minutes. You can wash Elvex ProChaps in the washing machine, but do not use hot temperature for either washing or drying. Depending on the settings on your washing machine and dryer, use warm or cold setting, but not hot. Do not use the high temperature used (140 +- 10) for the preconditioning of the pads prior to testing, since the protective pad and the cover fabric may experience uneven shrinkage. Observe, that Kevlar (Dupont brand, not used in Elvex ProChaps) protective pads deteriorate after washing, why it is not recommended that you apply these washing instructions for chain saw caps equipped with Kevlar pads. Return to top of page!
