Verdict in: ABUs truly 'wash and wear' Published Sept. 24, 2010 By 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- With the Air Force nearly fully converted to the Airman Battle Uniform, wearers report it really is a "wash and wear" uniform, unlike previous combat or utility uniforms. The Air Force's uniform website includes the following frequently asked questions and answers: Q: Does the Airmen's Battle Uniform require dry cleaning or pressing? A: The ABU is literally a wash and wear item. In fact, starching and hot pressing of ABUs is prohibited. Also, one should not dry clean the ABU. Dry cleaning, starching and hot pressing will deteriorate the fiber in the uniform and shorten the wear life. Q: What are the wash and care requirements for the ABU? A: In order to maximize service life and maintain optimum performance, ABUs should be washed in warm water with detergent containing no bleach. Tumble dry at low heat. The use of starch, sizing and any process that involves dry-cleaning or steam press will adversely affect the treatments and durability of the uniform and is not authorized. Q: How could starch damage the uniform? A: Starching uniforms makes the uniform material more brittle and subsequently reduces the wear life, thus it is prohibited. The permanent press and near Infrared features of the uniform will be damaged by starching, commercial pressing and additives in the washing process. The permanent press feature will allow Airmen to look sharp and wear the ABU without incurring the costs of commercial dry cleaning or pressing.