Folding Kayaks Forum

Yesterday on the way home from work, I found a red, low-end vest-style PFD in the road, picked it up and threw it in the car. Problem is, it's dirty from the road and possibly from the previous wearer. Maybe a good vest for a guest (sorry about the rhyme).

What's a good way to clean one of these? I'm assuming the Maytag is not an option.

Warm soapy water and a scrub-brush?
Automobile carpet & upholstery cleaner?
Followed by a water rinse?

Thanks,

C (stands for Cheap)

Or possibly the best vest for a guest...

I'd say soak it in cold or tepid water with a little mild soap for a while to lift the dirt, then scrub and rinse in cold or warm water. Avoid hot water if you can because it tends to 'cook' the dirt in. Also avoid detergents if you can because they can weaken the fabric. On the other hand, PFDs are made of tough stuff, and should be OK with any normal cleaning, so long as you rinse really well afterwards.

Nohoval