Gear Wash Continues Strong Growth with Strategic Acquisition of Advanced PPE
MEDINA, Ohio, Feb. 5, 2025 – In a major West Coast expansion, Gear Wash has announced its acquisition of Advanced PPE Company, a verified Independent Service Provider (ISP) with operations in Ventura, Calif., effective Feb. 4. Growing yet again, the Gear Wash network now encompasses 13 brick-and-mortar locations in proximity to some of the nation’s largest fire departments. In California, where gear is mandated to be cleaned to NFPA 1851 standards, the acquisition will make it easier for departments to get in, get out, and get clean with Gear Wash’s PPE experts.
Since 2018, Advanced PPE has been highly regarded for its NFPA 1851-compliant care and maintenance programs, as well as its advanced cleaning and inspection services. As a firefighter-owned company, it shares Gear Wash’s dedication to protecting the health and safety of first responders that rely on high-performance fabrics for PPE.
Under the Gear Wash brand, the Ventura facility will continue to serve central and southern California customers with a full range of cleaning, inspection and repair options.
“Expanding our reach isn’t just about numbers—it’s about impact. Advanced PPE’s firefighter-led team and their expertise in NFPA 1851 compliance mean we’re delivering specialized care where it matters,” said Taylor Burke Gilman, President of Gear Wash. “Now with 13 facilities and a mobile unit in Florida, more first responders can count on Gear Wash for top-notch care for their PPE.”
Gear Wash has the tools and knowledge to ensure that gear is fighting fit. They work with customers to ensure that gear is cleaned and repaired, keeping first responders safer every day. From drop-off to delivery, customers can expect Gear Wash’s certified teams to handle every detail and to arrange temporary gear rentals when departments need to keep running without interruptions.
Future growth further expands Gear Wash’s core mission: ensuring that all fire departments and first responders have access to superior PPE care while staying compliant. Since 2020, Gear Wash has acquired five businesses, adding 12 locations—and continues to expand to better serve communities nationwide.
One stop at gearwash.com keeps you NFPA 1851-ready all year.
About Gear Wash
At Gear Wash, we provide trusted PPE maintenance to keep you safe. As the largest fully verified Independent Service Provider (ISP) in the world, we have the resources and expertise to care for your gear. Everything we do—from inspection, cleaning, repair, alteration, customization, and rentals—is done to protect first responders from harmful and worn-out gear. We maintain the highest possible standards: utilizing the latest technologies and methods, backed by deep specialist knowledge, to protect your gear through its whole life.
