One question we get occasionally is whether or not hook and loop material is washable. The answer is yes, and there are a couple parts of this answer that can be elaborated on. One is regarding proper care for hook and loop when washing, the other is about the material itself.
Hook and Loop Material
Most hook and loop material is made out of nylon which is hydrophobic. This means that it does not easily absorb water. Other materials that hook and loop are made out of, like polyester and assorted plastics are also hydrophobic. So almost any hook and loop fastener you purchase does not easily absorb water. So how does this impact washing it? This means that anything that gets onto the hook and loop will remain on its surface so simply laundering the material or soaking it in a cleaning liquid should remove anything that needs to be washed off. If the hook or loop may have absorbed something that needs to be washed out, they'll need to be soaked for an extended period.
The exception here is adhesive backed hook and loop. If you wash hook or loop with adhesive backing, moisture and chemicals can impact the performance of the adhesive, particularly a rubber-based adhesive. An acrylic-based adhesive holds up better to these outside factors. In most instances though, the hook and loop getting washed is sewn to clothing and other apparel. The only thing to consider when washing hook and loop is the temperature the hook and loop can withstand. This varies based on material and manufacturer, but for example our DuraGrip Brand nylon hook and loop can withstand up to 280 F which is high enough for some autoclaves.
How to Wash VELCRO® Brand Products Without Ruining Them?
To wash VELCRO® Brand products without ruining them, follow these steps:
-
Make Sure VELCRO® Products Are Fastened: This is the most important of all steps. Make sure the hook and loop sides are fastened together to prevent the hooks from catching on other fabrics, damaging clothing or collecting a bunch of lint and debris in the laundering process to render it useless.
-
Use a laundry bag: Place the item in a mesh laundry bag to minimize tangling with other garments.
-
Wash on a gentle cycle: Use cold or warm water and a gentle cycle to avoid damaging the fasteners.
-
Avoid harsh chemicals: Do not use bleach or fabric softener, as they can degrade the hooks and loops.
Following these tips will help maintain the durability and performance of VELCRO® Brand products.
Can You Wash Velcro in the Washing Machine?
Yes, you can wash Velcro in the washing machine as long as it doesn't have adhesive backing. Always fasten the hook and loop sides together before washing to prevent snagging and lint buildup. Most sewn-on Velcro made from nylon or polyester can withstand standard wash cycles
Additional FAQs:
Q. How do you clean Velcro without ruining it?
A. Fasten the Velcro, use a laundry bag, and wash with mild detergent. Afterwards, use a fine brush or tweezers to remove debris from the hook side.
Q. Does Velcro get damaged in the wash?
A. Not usually—unless it’s left unfastened, which can cause snagging or lint buildup. Adhesive-backed Velcro may lose its grip if washed.
Q. Is it okay for Velcro to get wet?
A. Yes, sew-on Velcro can get wet and dries quickly. However, avoid soaking adhesive Velcro, especially with rubber-based adhesives.
Q. Is stick-on Velcro washable?
A. No, stick-on Velcro (adhesive-backed) is not designed for washing, as water and detergents can degrade the adhesive.
Q. Can you wash Velcro wrist wraps in washing machine?
A. Yes, if the Velcro is sewn in. Make sure it’s fastened and placed in a mesh laundry bag for best results.
