How to Clean a Charles Owen Body Protector

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1: Identify Kontor, Shadow or Eclipse construction

Read the product label and Charles Owen guide. A Kontor is a body protector whose protective garment is surface-cleaned only. Shadow and Eclipse back protectors use a removable outer cover around an insert pad. Do not unzip or remove a pad unless the model is designed for it, and do not apply the 30°C cover instruction to the foam insert.

Step 2: Review impact history and inspect wear

Before cleaning, inspect for reduced foam thickness, a change in feel, cracking, torn fabric, damaged adjustment points and zipper separation. Charles Owen recommends replacement after a serious impact and regular inspection for wear. Cleaning cannot reverse compressed protective material or certify an item after a fall.

Step 3: Let ordinary mud dry and brush lightly

Charles Owen says dried mud can be brushed away with a soft brush. Support the protector on a hanger or flat surface and use light strokes so dirt is lifted rather than pushed through mesh. Avoid a stiff wire brush, beating the garment or folding impact panels sharply to release debris.

Step 4: Surface-wipe a Kontor body protector

Mix a small amount of mild detergent in water and dampen a soft cloth. Wring it well and wipe the exterior in sections. Charles Owen says the Kontor should only be surface-wiped; do not immerse it, put it in a washer or saturate panel seams. Use a second minimally damp cloth to lift detergent residue.

Step 5: Protect and clean the zipper

Charles Owen advises loosening side adjustments before doing up the zip to reduce strain and prevent damage at the zipper end. Brush dry grit from teeth and wipe the zipper tape with a damp cloth. Do not apply oil, wax or solvent unless the manufacturer explicitly approves it, because residue can attract dirt and contact fabric.

Step 6: Separate a removable Shadow or Eclipse cover

Open the approved cover and slide out the protector insert without bending, rolling or dragging it across the zipper. Note its orientation. Surface-wipe the insert pad with a damp cloth only, as Charles Owen directs. Never wash, bleach, iron, dry-clean or tumble-dry the impact-absorbing insert.

Step 7: Wash only the approved outer cover

The removable outer cover of a Shadow or Eclipse can be machine washed at 30°C according to Charles Owen. Close fasteners as the label directs, use the permitted mild laundry product and avoid bleach and fabric treatments. Wash the cover by itself or with soft compatible items, never with the foam insert inside.

Step 8: Dry away from direct heat

Hang the Kontor or lay it with panels supported, and air-dry the Shadow or Eclipse insert flat. Charles Owen says to dry away from direct heat and not to use a fire, radiator or tumble dryer. Its impact materials perform best in a moderate temperature range and can become brittle in cold or soft in heat.

Step 9: Reassemble only when every layer is dry

Check the cover's seams and zipper flap and the insert's edges for dampness. Slide the dry insert into the dry cover in its original orientation without folding it. Smooth the cover so no panel is twisted or bunched. A damp cover can trap moisture against foam and hardware and encourage odor or mold.

Step 10: Check fit, flexibility and storage

Fasten and adjust the protector according to its fitting instructions. Confirm the zipper, side adjustments and panels lie normally and the foam has returned to room-temperature flexibility. Store on a hanger or flat in a dry place away from direct sun, extreme temperatures, heavy objects and sharp edges. Replace any product with serious impact history or questionable protective integrity.