Has anyone ever cleaned a Kevlar Vest?

Question

I have sponged the outside lining without the inserts, it still smells. I've cleaned it with soap and then vinegar and water. Washing instructions indicate that it cannot be put in a washing machine, just sponged and dried with a towel and line dried.

Note: Only those with experience actually cleaning one please reply!

Answer 1

A friend of mine is on the force and he saw that I have a sport enzyme spray from Norwex that I use on my boy's hockey gear.  I gave him a bottle and he won't give it back.  The enzyme spray breaks down the bacteria which causes the odours - contact your nearest rep for Norwex - I'm a huge fan of all their cleaning stuff actually.  Good luck.

Answer 2

Not being funny here, but have the manufacturers not provided any laundering instructions? If not, get on to their customer services and complain! These vests are supposed to be worn by the nations finest, for whom confidence is everything. Smelly vests do not inspire confidence. Do the manufacturers want to be responsible for a lack of confidence in our security services? I think not! Go get 'em girl...

(In the mean time, buy some fabreeze or comfort fabric freshener in a little handy bottle - a little squirt every morning will make everyone's day more fragrant)

A fellow stinky sufferer.