If you've ever thought you had your bleach valve turned off, only to realize moments later that you were actually running pure bleach through your pump and onto a customer’s lawn, you know the importance of having the right gear. Today, we’re diving into the best clothing options for pressure washing professionals—what works, what doesn’t, and what you should invest in to stay comfortable and protected on the job.
Choosing the Right Work Shirts
Finding the perfect work shirt can be a game-changer for those in the softwash and pressure washing industry. Here’s what to look for:
1. Lightweight & Breathable Materials
Under Armour used to make a great lightweight, perforated, and breathable shirt with a vented back—perfect for long hours in the sun. Unfortunately, they discontinued them, but the Hook brand makes a similar alternative. These shirts are:
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Super lightweight
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Breathable with vented backs
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Great for concealed carry due to their length
While these aren't your go-to pressure washing shirts, they are fantastic for day-to-day wear when meeting customers or doing estimates.
2. Softwash Uniform Shirts
Every year, we invest in a fresh batch of 100% polyester sport-wicking shirts. These shirts are ideal because:
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They dry quickly
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Resist bleach damage better than cotton
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Are comfortable year-round
We use the A4 brand—our local football team even uses them for practice jerseys. We get them screen-printed by a local guy (who we trade house washing services with) to add our company logo.
The Best Pants for Pressure Washing
Pants are just as important as shirts when it comes to working in a bleach-heavy environment. Here’s what we’ve tested:
1. 5.11 Apex Pants (Best Overall)
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Lightweight & stretchy for easy movement
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Great for concealed carry
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Fade-resistant and don’t show bleach spots easily
These pants last a long time despite regular exposure to bleach. While they aren’t completely bleach-proof, they hold up better than most alternatives.
2. Wrangler Outdoor Pants (Best Budget Option)
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98% nylon, 4% spandex (stretchy and lightweight)
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Available at Walmart
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Resistant to bleach (only minor discoloration over time)
These are a great option for those looking for something affordable without sacrificing durability.
3. Ascend Hiking Pants (Best New Favorite)
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94% nylon, 6% spandex for extra stretch
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Super lightweight, almost like wearing pajamas
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Bleach-resistant and breathable
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Built-in rubberized waistband to keep shirts tucked in
These pants have become a personal favorite for comfort, mobility, and durability.
What Not to Wear
Some materials just don’t work for pressure washing. Avoid:
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Cotton: Heavy, holds moisture, and easily absorbs bleach
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Denim: Too thick, uncomfortable in hot weather, and fades quickly
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Dark-colored pants: Bleach spots are much more noticeable
The Cost of Staying Comfortable
Each year, we budget about $400 for new shirts and let employees handle their own pants purchases. With proper care, work shirts can last up to two years, but for the best professional appearance, we refresh our stock annually. It’s a small investment for comfort, protection, and maintaining a clean company image.
Want to Learn More About Softwashing?
Your clothing is just one piece of the puzzle when running a successful softwash business. If you’re serious about learning the right techniques, chemicals, and business strategies, check out the SESW Softwash 101 class. This course covers everything from residential to commercial softwashing, ensuring you operate efficiently and profitably.
🔗 Sign up for SESW Softwash 101 today and take your business to the next level!
Stay safe, stay comfortable, and keep washing! Whether you're picking up a new skid or heading to a big job, having the right gear makes all the difference. Let me know in the comments—what’s your go-to pressure washing outfit?
