SPONTANEOUS COMBUSTION - metal canisters for soiled rags

Spontaneous combustion is the phenomenon in which a substance unexpectedly bursts into flame without apparent cause.  Many substances undergo a slow oxidation that, like the rapid oxidation of burning, releases heat.  If the heat cannot escape, the temperature of the substance rises until ignition takes place.

Cotton rags that contain many types of oil, including flammable finishes, flammable cleaning solvents and vegetable oils used in cooking are subject to this spontaneous combustion.   Soiled rags should be stored in a metal canister with self closing lid.

Laundering of these rags must be handled with care as the heat during drying can cause spontaneous combustion if all of the oil has not been removed during laundering.  The potential for fire exists during the drying process and after folding the rags if they are still warm. Laundering tips to prevent this type of loss:

§         Adequate, heavy-duty liquid laundry detergent

§         Use  only very hot water

§         Longer wash cycles

§         Make sure dryers have cool down cycle

§         Do not store bundled or folded garments in or near hot water heaters, boilers, dryers or other areas where ambient heat is generated

§         Install smoke detectors in storage areas

§         Never allow a large load to remain in dryers after the drying cycle ends

Careful attention should always be used when applying flammable finishes, such as wood stain.  Left unattended for even a few hours, these can generate sufficient heat to start a fire.  These rags should be placed in containers half-filled with water until properly cleaned or disposed of.  Leaving them to air dry and often cause them to get blown into corners and start a fire.