Work clothing: who has to pay for it?
Helmet, safety shoes, uniform, smock: who pays for work clothing? That depends on whether it is prescribed protective equipment, service clothing or ordinary everyday clothing.
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What you should do now
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1. Clarify the type of clothing
Protective equipment, prescribed service clothing or ordinary clothing?
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2. Assign the responsibility
The employer pays for protective equipment; everyday clothing is usually paid by you.
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3. Demand cost coverage
For protective equipment or prescribed clothing, demand that the costs be covered.
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4. Check the cleaning
Clarify who bears the cleaning of prescribed clothing; it can be the employer.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to pay for my work clothing myself?
It depends on the type. Prescribed personal protective equipment (helmet, safety shoes and so on) must be provided by the employer free of charge. Required service or work clothing (for example a uniform) is usually also paid by the employer. Only ordinary everyday clothing that you can also wear privately must you pay for yourself.
Who bears the cleaning costs for work clothing?
For prescribed protective or service clothing, the cleaning costs can fall on the employer, especially if the clothing gets heavily soiled or the cleaning requires special processes. For ordinary clothing you bear the cleaning yourself. When in doubt, it is worth a look into the employment or collective agreement.
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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.