When people first discover my firefighter-themed products, one of the most common questions I get is:
“Why don’t you use retired turnout gear to make your items?”
It’s a fair question — after all, the idea of repurposing actual firefighter gear into keepsakes sounds meaningful at first glance. But there are some important reasons why I made the decision early on to work with brand-new, turnout-gear-inspired fabric instead of used gear, and I’d love to share those with you today.
1. Safety First — Always
The most important reason is safety.
Turnout gear is made to protect firefighters from extreme heat, chemicals, and hazardous environments. Even after it’s retired from active duty, those materials can still carry lingering chemicals, toxins, soot, and other residues. And while it might look fine on the surface, those invisible contaminants can pose health risks, especially in items that come into close contact with your skin, home, or even your little ones.
Since many of my products — like pillow covers, aprons, baby items, and dog accessories — are designed for everyday use around the home and family, I would never want to put anyone at risk. By using new, safe fabrics that look and feel like turnout gear but haven’t been exposed to harmful environments, I can offer the firefighter-inspired aesthetic without the worry.
You can learn more about the dangers of using retired firefighter turnout gear HERE.
2. Clean, Consistent Quality
Another reason I choose new fabric is for the consistency and quality it provides.
Retired gear varies widely in wear, color, and condition. Some pieces might be too stiff, others too worn, and many come with stains, burns, or damage from their time in service. While those marks tell a powerful story, they also make it difficult to guarantee a clean, polished, and durable finished product.
Using new material ensures that every item I create is made from fabric that’s strong, reliable, and in pristine condition. It also means I can create matching sets and products with a consistent look — which matters to customers who want coordinating firefighter-themed items for their home, family, or as thoughtful gifts.
3. Honoring the Gear’s Purpose
I deeply respect the role that turnout gear plays in a firefighter’s career. That gear has been through emergencies, saved lives, and protected the brave men and women who wear it. In my heart, I feel that retired turnout gear deserves a dignified retirement, whether that’s in a fire department’s archives, displayed in a memorial, or cherished by the firefighter’s own family.
By choosing new, turnout-inspired materials, I’m able to honor the symbolism of the gear without altering or repurposing the actual garments that served in the line of duty.
In Closing
When you purchase from Simply Sweet By B, you’re getting items made with safe, high-quality, firefighter-inspired fabric, crafted with love and care for both the firefighting community and their families. It’s my way of offering meaningful, beautiful keepsakes that celebrate the fire service — without compromising on safety or quality.
If you ever have questions about the materials I use or how my products are made, I’m always happy to chat. Thank you for supporting a small business with a big heart for the firefighting family!
Have a Blessed Day,
Brandi