marine corps uniform regulations - US

10100. GENERAL
MARINE CORPS UNIFORM REGULATIONS
CHAPTER 10
CARE AND MARKING OF UNIFORMS
SECTION 1: CARE OF THE UNIFORM
1. The following information is presented to help prolong the useful life of
uniforms and accessories so that they may be worn with the justifiable pride,
which distinguishes Marines in uniform.
2. No matter how well-fitting a uniform is when new, it will not continue to
look its best unless well cared for both during wear and when not in use. A
uniform should be put on carefully and kept buttoned. Large or heavy objects
carried in the pockets will soon destroy the shape of the uniform. When not
in use, carefully place uniforms on hangers and keep in a well-ventilated
storage space. Well-constructed wooden or plastic hangers shaped to fit the
shoulder contour, with locking trouser bar or clips, are recommended. When
uniforms are folded in duffel bags or other containers for storage or
shipment, fold them carefully to preserve their original shape.
10101. DRESS UNIFORMS
1. Because of less frequent wear, use particular care when storing dress
uniforms. Gold braid on evening dress uniforms may deteriorate if in close
proximity to any substance containing sulphur, such as rubber and manila or
craft paper. High humidity or sharp temperature changes will also cause
tarnishing if the uniform is not adequately protected. An airtight plastic
clothing bag with a packet of desiccant (drying agent) enclosed will give
greatest protection. Place the uniform carefully on a substantial hanger and
store in a dry, cool, well-ventilated closet. An experienced tailor should
normally clean gold braid, although liquid nontoxic preparations available
may be used if applied according to manufacturer's instructions. Embroidered
insignia may be kept bright by occasional scrubbing with a nail brush and a
solution of ammonia and water. Do this periodically, or as soon as any signs
of tarnish or corrosion appears. In case of severe corrosion, the insignia
cannot be restored to its original condition and must be replaced. The
synthetic tarnish-resistant gold braided accessory items do not require heavy
cleaning. A soft cloth may be carefully used to remove dust. Since
temperature changes do not affect these items, store as required to protect
the uniform fabric itself.
2. According to manufacturer's label instructions, blue-white dress uniforms
white items of polyester or polyester/rayon gabardine may be either
professionally dry cleaned, or laundered and pressed. As dry cleaning has
frequently caused the polyester/rayon uniforms to become yellow or gray, hand
or machine laundering of these uniforms is preferable. Hand launder in warm
water using mild detergent; scrub soiled areas; rinse thoroughly in clear
warm water; dry without wringing. Machine launder using a mild detergent;
complete washing cycle for 30 minutes in 90-degree to 120-degree water; rinse
thoroughly in clear warm water; set automatic dryer for regular fabrics and
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