Clothes for work where you get wet

Short answer: If you get wet at work, drying is what counts. Choose fabric that lets go of water again, and always keep a dry set within reach, so a wet morning does not spoil the afternoon as well.

Drying time is the key number

A fabric that dries in one hour is far better than one that takes five. When your work involves water, you get wet again and again, and what matters is how quickly your clothes feel comfortable afterwards. Think of each piece as something that has to dry. See bamboo sweat clothes for the breaks.

Why the fabric must let go of water

No ordinary clothing keeps water out for a whole day. Sooner or later the moisture gets through at the sleeves, the neck or the knees. That is why it matters more that the fabric releases water again than that it keeps it out at first. A thin, light layer dries faster than a thick one and feels less cold while drying.

A dry set in the locker

When water is part of the working day, a spare set is not a luxury. Put underwear, a top and socks in a bag in your locker, and change at lunch if you are wet through. It takes a few minutes and makes the rest of the day far more pleasant. See the most popular pieces for your fixed spare set.

Feet first

Wet feet mean cold legs and unhappy skin, so they are the first thing to change. Moisture in socks stays in the shoe for hours because no air gets in. Put on a dry pair as soon as you can, and dry your feet before you do. With two spare pairs you can change both morning and afternoon.

Layers you can change one at a time

Wear several thin layers rather than one thick one. If the outer layer gets wet, you can take it off and keep the inner one on while it is still dry. A thick layer has to be changed completely once it is soaked. Layers also let you adjust the warmth between wet work and a warm break.

How to dry clothes at work

Hang wet clothes up straight away instead of leaving them in a pile or a bag. A piece that hangs freely dries much faster than one that is folded. Use a hanger, a hook or a radiator if there is one. Turn socks and sleeves inside out so air reaches both sides.

Washing after a wet day

Clothes that have been wet all day need washing, even if they look clean. Moisture and warmth cause odour if they sit too long. Wash at a moderate temperature with a mild detergent and let them air dry, so the fabric stays soft for longer. Browse the range for women if you want to add to your spare set.

A plan for the day

The simplest plan is to have three things ready: a dry pair of socks, a spare set of underwear and a layer for the break. Pack them the evening before so you do not forget them in the morning. Once the plan is fixed, you stop thinking about it, and a wet day becomes an ordinary day.

Frequently asked questions

What matters most when you get wet at work

That the fabric lets go of the water again. Drying time matters more than whether it keeps water out at first, because you will get wet at some point anyway.

What should you change first

Your socks. Wet feet chill the whole body and cause skin problems fastest, so a dry pair is the first thing to reach for.

How many sets should you keep at work

At least one spare set of underwear and two pairs of socks. It is the cheapest insurance against a bad day and takes up almost no space.