Check your lifejackets

This page explains how to look after your lifejacket and when you should destroy and replace it.

How to dispose of lifejackets

Dispose of unsafe lifejackets by cutting them so the damage is clearly visible, then take them to the dump. Unless they are going to a museum, take them out of circulation.

Replacing lifejackets

Lifejackets save lives.

Coastguard  provides comprehensive lifejacket guidance, from choosing the right type and fit for your on‑water activity to caring for and maintaining inflatable lifejackets. Their resources explain how to:

• check your lifejacket
• carry out annual maintenance and servicing of inflatable lifejackets
• care for and store lifejackets so they last as long as possible.

Every summer Coastguard runs the Old4New Lifejacket Upgrade campaign. This nationwide water safety initiative encourages people to trade in old, damaged, or ill‑fitting lifejackets for discounted new Hutchwilco lifejackets. Since the programme began in 2014, more than 24,000 unsafe lifejackets have been removed from circulation and replaced with modern, compliant alternatives.

These simple checks are a starting point and do not replace expert advice.

• Pull the straps hard. If any of them stretch or tear, do not use the lifejacket. Destroy it and replace it.
• Look for tears or cuts in the straps. If there are any, do not use the lifejacket. Destroy it and replace it.
• Check for tears, cuts, or punctures in the lifejacket itself. If there are any, do not use the lifejacket. Destroy it and replace it.
• Check if it still floats. Ask the manufacturer or a lifejacket service centre how to do this safely.
  

Selling your lifejacket?

Before you sell a lifejacket, use the checks above to make sure it is safe. Destroy any lifejackets that are unsafe.

Caring for all types of lifejacket

Heat, salt water, and sunlight can damage lifejackets. Good care and storage can extend their life.

Remember to:

• wash off salt
• check for damage before you put it away
• store the lifejacket dry and out of sunlight.

Tips for caring for your lifejacket:

• After use, wash the lifejacket in fresh water. If it is dirty, wash it in warm water with a mild soap and rinse thoroughly.
• Wipe automatic‑inflating lifejackets with a wet sponge instead of rinsing them.
• Dry lifejackets in open air, out of direct sunlight and away from heat.
• Do not dry‑clean lifejackets. Cleaning chemicals can dissolve the foam.
• If you use a lifejacket around grease and chemicals, check the fabric regularly to make sure it has not broken down.
• Store lifejackets in a dark, dry place, and hang them if possible.
• Do not store them folded or compressed under a heavy object.
• When storing a lifejacket, do a quick safety check and look for corrosion, wear, damage, and water ingress.
  
  

Inflatable lifejackets

Inflatable lifejackets must be regularly serviced as per the manufacturer's requirements. You should also check  the gas cylinder is secured properly and is not corroded.