How Should I Care for My Body Armor to Maintain Its Effectiveness?
- Kami Kay Kirschbaum
- 4 hours ago
- 3 min read
Your body armor is more than just a product—it’s a life-saving layer between you and the unexpected. Whether it’s soft armor in a hoodie or hard plates in a carrier, how you care for it can make the difference between reliable protection and compromised safety.
So how do you keep your body armor in peak condition?
Here’s a guide to maintaining its effectiveness for the long haul.
1. Respect the Manufacturer’s Instructions
Every piece of body armor should come with a care label or manual. It might sound obvious, but step one is actually reading it. Each brand may use different materials or construction methods, and proper care can vary.
When in doubt, follow the label. Always.
2. Avoid Moisture at All Costs
Moisture is the enemy—especially for soft armor made with materials like Kevlar or Twaron. Water can break down fibers and lead to mold or delamination over time.
Do:
Use a damp cloth and mild soap to clean the outer shell.
Let armor air dry flat in a well-ventilated area.
Don’t:
Never soak it in water.
Never machine wash or dry it.
Avoid storing it in a humid or wet environment.
3. Store It Right
Where and how you store your body armor matters.
Best practices:
Store flat or on a hanger in a cool, dry place.
Keep it out of direct sunlight—UV rays can degrade ballistic fibers.
Avoid folding or crushing the armor, especially in a tight backpack or under heavy gear.
If you’re storing it in your vehicle, remember that high heat (especially in summer) can degrade materials over time.
4. Inspect It Regularly
You don’t have to baby your armor, but regular inspections are a must.
Check for:
Tears, fraying, or loose stitching
Delamination (bubbling or separation in soft armor)
Warped or cracked hard plates
Funky smells or mold—a sign moisture’s gotten in
If anything looks off, reach out to the manufacturer or replace it. Never risk it.
5. Use the Right Carrier
A quality carrier holds your armor in place and reduces unnecessary stress. Poor-quality carriers can fold or crease the panels and lead to uneven wear.
Make sure:
It fits your armor snugly and holds it in the proper position
You adjust it properly every time you wear it
It’s made of breathable, durable materials that don’t trap sweat
6. Avoid Excessive Heat or Cold
Extreme temperatures can weaken the fibers in soft armor and deform hard armor.
Avoid:
Leaving it in a hot car
Storing it near heaters, radiators, or in freezing garages
Using hair dryers or heat guns to dry it (yes, some people try this)
7. Don’t Modify Your Armor
It might be tempting to cut, trim, sew, or alter your armor to make it “fit better” or “feel lighter”—but even small changes can destroy its integrity.
If it’s not working for you, get a new vest. Don’t DIY.
Bottom Line: Take Care of What Takes Care of You
Body armor isn’t just a tool—it’s personal. If it’s going to protect your life, it deserves your attention. Caring for it isn’t complicated, but it’s essential.
At Civilian, we engineer our bulletproof clothing to meet the highest standards of protection, but it’s what you do every day that ensures it stays ready.
Want help choosing the right care setup or getting a replacement?
Get in touch. We're here to keep you safe.