I assume the above is strictly following the washing guidelines on the label of the vest.wash it with all the Velcro you have in your possession, battle pack, Velcro shoes (re lumps post) in fact throw a few rolls of the tacky stuff in. then wash it on a 50degree wash and tumble dry with aforementioned Velcro.
Disclamer;
Dave is not responsible for anyone stupid enough to take his advice messing up there/there parents gear.