Flame resistant vs. fire retardant: Is there a difference?

Yes. Flame-resistant material is inherently flame resistant. The fibers of these materials are derived from and possess the quality to be flame resistant. Inherently flame-resistant materials are not affected by proper laundering.

 

 

Fire-retardant material does not possess the same inherent qualities as flame-resistant material. Fire-retardant material is made from flammable materials, such as cotton or nylon, which are treated with a combination of chemicals to allow the material to resist burning. A manufacturer will use specific combinations of chemicals and will soak or spray the material so it will have the ability to self extinguish after being exposed to flames. Unlike a flame-resistant garment, fire-retardant materials can lose their fire-retardant properties after several washings.