What do you use to clean fire hose?

Mild soap and water is the recommended option for cleaning fire hoses because it effectively removes dirt, debris, and other contaminants without damaging the materials of the hose. The use of mild soap helps to degrease and sanitize the surface, ensuring that hoses remain in excellent working condition. It's important to use cleaning agents that are gentle enough not to compromise the hose's structural integrity or its resistance to heat and chemicals.

Cleaning fire hoses with improper substances, such as bleach or strong detergents, can weaken the fibers and materials over time, potentially leading to failure during operations. Hot water may help in loosening dirt, but by itself, it lacks the necessary cleaning power of soap. Similarly, while vinegar and detergent might have some cleaning properties, they are not as universally recommended as mild soap for the specific need of cleaning fire hoses. Thus, mild soap and water provide the right balance of effectiveness and safety for maintaining fire-fighting equipment.