There are different types of fabric used when we talk about welding clothing. There are some made out of leather, wool, and denim while some are made out of cotton. Here we get to know more about cotton shirts for welding and if they really are good to use while at work.
Why Cotton shirts for Welding are a Must-Have
To get maximum protection while at work, you need premium welding clothing that is made out of the best materials. It’s the only way you can minimize injuries. Apart from leather, cotton is also a recommended type of fabric for welding protection. Here’s why.
Cotton is made entirely of natural fibers
First off, you should know that cotton is made entirely of natural fibers. This is what makes it a highly recommended type of fabric for welding clothing. Some would ask, “Is 98% cotton good for welding?” The answer is yes. If you find 100%, then that would be better.
Cotton shirts for welding are less flammable making them easier to extinguish than synthetic fibers. If you wear a cotton shirt that catches fire, you are able to pat it out with your glove.
For Cotton to become Suitable for Welding, they need to be Flame Retardant
Now that we know cotton shirts are highly recommended, you should know that for them to be suitable for welding, they need to be flame-retardant. This means, that untreated cotton fabric won’t exactly do the job.
Yes, cotton in itself is already resistant to flames. But when treated with specialist chemicals, it boosts its heat resistance and protective qualities making it a very suitable type of welding clothing to get maximum protection. Once these become treated, these cotton welding shirts now become FR cotton welding shirts.
Cotton Gives More Flexibility
While leather is a go-to for most welders when it comes to protection, FR cotton shirts for welding become the best option for those who need flexibility while at work. They are also more breathable and are better to use in hot weather conditions.
When it comes to choosing whether or not you to use leather or cotton welding clothing, it really depends on the type of welding you do on a daily basis. If you weld in hot conditions, you can go for an FR cotton welding shirt. If you weld during the winter, it’s best to use an FR leather welding shirt. No matter what you choose, the important thing is you choose welding clothing that is made of high-quality materials. That way you know you get maximum protection for your safety!