UV (ultra-violet) brighteners in clothing gather energy from light and reflect that energy into a narrow band that causes a white or blue glow. Although this glow cannot be seen by the naked human eye, animals--particularly deer--are very sensitive to this reflective coloring. As a result, hunters in general, and deer hunters in particular, should take precautions to neutralize and remove these UV brighteners.
Run a small black light over clothing. A glow caused by a black light will indicate the presence of UV brighteners in clothing.
Spray clothing with a UV neutralizer spray such as U-V-Killer. These sprays neutralize and block the UV reflections.
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Verify with the black light that no glowing "hot spots" have been missed.
Wash clothes in a UV-free detergent to prevent UV reflectors being redeposited. Regular detergents will redeposit UV brighteners and residue, so it is important to use a UV-free detergent such as Sport-Wash.
Tip
As long as a UV-free detergent is used, clothing should remain UV free. Occasional spot checks with a black light can verify that no UV hot spots exist.
Warning
If clothing is washed in regular detergent, it must be retreated with a UV-blocking spray.
