How to Effectively Remove Stains from Polyester?

The main types of stains on polyester

polyester is a synthetic fabric which has a reputation for being easy to maintain. However, some stains may be more difficult to remove.

The main types of stains that can be found on polyester are:

• grease stains (oil, mayonnaise, etc.)
• drink stains (coffee, tea, soda, etc.)
• make-up stains (lipstick, foundation, etc.)
• The sweat stains
• pen or ink stains
• The blood stains

These stains have different compositions and it is therefore necessary to adapt the treatment to make them disappear effectively.

Also read: Does polyester keep you warm?

Understand the nature of polyester to better clean it

Polyester is a synthetic fiber obtained by polymerization of petroleum-derived products. Its structure means that it resists stains well in general.

However, certain precautions should be taken to avoid damaging it during cleaning:

• Avoid products that are too aggressive which could damage the fibers
• Do not rub too vigorously so as not to create unsightly pills
• Do not wash at too high temperature to avoid shrinking the fabric

It is also preferable to treat a stain quickly because the more it becomes embedded, the more difficult it becomes to remove.

Also read: How to limit perspiration with polyester?

The essential tools for removing polyester clothing

First of all, it is recommended to check the care instructions on the label of the garment to ensure that no product will damage it.

Here are some natural products that can remove most stains on polyester:

Black soap: an ally against stubborn stains

The black soap is very effective in tackling stubborn stains such as sludge or drain oil. Simply rub the stained area gently with this pure soap to see the stain gradually dissolve.

Ammonia: effective against soda stains

ammonia is ideal for removing stains left by sweet drinks such as sodas or fruit juices. Diluted in water, it dissolves sugars embedded in the fabric.

Alcohol and white vinegar: for ink stains

If the polyester has been stained with ink, whether pen or printer, you can use a mixture of equal parts 90° alcohol and white vinegar. Simply dab gently to see the ink stain gradually dissolve.

Dishwashing liquid: a solution against water stains

Surprisingly, dishwashing liquid can be very useful in getting rid of haloes or white circles left by water. Used pure on the immaculate area, it restores the original appearance of the fabric.

Also read: Find out how to know if you are allergic to polyester?

Techniques for cleaning grease stains from polyester

Grease stains are among the most stubborn on polyester clothing. Fortunately, there are simple techniques to make them disappear:

How to remove grease stain

• First of all, the stain should be treated as quickly as possible after it occurs
• Start by delicately dabbing the soiled area with a cloth soaked in Marseille soap
• Do not rub vigorously so as not to damage the fibers
• Leave it to act for a few minutes
• Possibly repeat the operation if the stain is tough
• Finish with a pass through machine during the next wash

This method allows you to gently remove grease stains in most cases.

Also read: How to wash polyester?

How to remove a stain that does not leave encrusted on polyester?

It sometimes happens that a stain resists all the usual treatments. Before throwing in the towel, there are a few techniques to try to make it disappear.

Using the washing machine for stubborn stains

If a stain turns out to be particularly stubborn on a polyester garment, you can try washing it in the machine by modifying certain parameters:

• Wash at the maximum temperature allowed for the textile
• Use a detergent containing stain removal agents
• Add white vinegar or baking soda to the drum
• Possibly pre-wash to increase the stain removal action

This technique often makes it possible to overcome very encrusted stains which resist traditional methods.

Pretreatment of already washed clothing

When washing in the machine has not removed a stain, you can try treatment before the next wash:

• Apply a mixture of bicarbonate and water directly to the stain
• Leave it to act for several hours or even overnight
• Rub gently before putting in the machine

This pretreatment increases the chances of removing a very stubborn stain during the next wash.

Also read: How to remove wrinkles from polyester clothing?

Regular washing and maintenance of polyester to prevent stains

A few simple habits can reduce the risk of stains on polyester clothing:

The choice of detergent: a key element for effective washing

Choose a liquid detergent with stain removal agents which thoroughly cleans the delicate fibres of polyester. Avoid washing powders which can leave residue.

Opt for a special synthetic textile detergent which respects the structure of fibres of polyester.

Mistakes to avoid when washing polyester clothing

• Do not overload the machine to allow optimal washing of sports clothing in polyester

• Avoid washing at too high temperature to avoid shrinking the fragile fibers

• Do not iron at temperature too high so as not to damage the fabric synthetic

• Do not soften excessively so as not to make the fabric porous and reduce its stain resistance

• Do not wash by hand too vigorously as this risks deforming the polyester

Treatment of stubborn stains on polyester

Certain types of stains can be very complicated to remove from polyester clothing. Here are some tips for tackling these stubborn stains:

• For a stain of oil paint, blot immediately with a cloth soaked in turpentine, then machine wash

• Against an excess of chemical products such as bleach, rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water before washing

• For a stain of make-up or lipstick, use a cotton soaked in isopropyl alcohol to remove the grease

• If food is spilled, carefully remove the pieces before cleaning the area with a tissue

• For a blood stain, rinse immediately with cold water then apply diluted peroxide before washing

It is always recommended to check the care instructions on the label before using a stain remover on polyester.

Also read: How to perfume your laundry in the dryer?

In summary

In conclusion, it is possible to effectively remove stains from polyester by using soft and natural products, adapted to the nature of the stain. For stubborn stains it may be necessary to use pre-treatment techniques before machine washing.

The golden rules for caring for polyester are to avoid overloading the machine, not to wash at too high a temperature and not to iron at too high a temperature.

Stubborn stains sometimes require specific treatments, but with these tips you should be able to deal with the majority of common stains.

FAQ

How to remove stains that won't come out?

In the event of a persistent stain on polyester, it is possible to use a powerful pre-treatment such as hydrogen peroxide or very diluted ammonia, then rinsing thoroughly.

How to remove synthetic stains?

On synthetic fabrics such as polyester, avoid aggressive detergents. Prefer Marseille soap, baking soda or white vinegar dabbed delicately.

How to remove encrusted stains?

Faced with an encrusted stain, it is advisable to pre-treat before washing. Leaving a mixture of baking soda and water on the stain for several hours can help remove it.

How to clean 100% polyester?

To clean 100% polyester clothing, use a special liquid detergent for synthetic textiles and wash at 30°C maximum so as not to damage the fibers. Avoid ironing it at too high a temperature.

How to unfasten polyester pants?

To remove a stain on polyester pants, dab with a clean cloth soaked in Marseille soap or white vinegar. Rub gently and leave to act before machine washing.

How to remove a grease stain from synthetic fabric?

On synthetic fabric, avoid strong degreasing products which could damage it. Favor the mechanical action of a damp cloth soaked in Marseille soap rubbed delicately.

How to remove a stubborn stain from white clothing?

On white, a stubborn stain can be treated with a mixture of baking soda, white vinegar and lemon juice left to act for several hours. Then rub gently before washing.

How to remove a stubborn stain from colored clothing?

On colored clothing, first test the stain remover products on a hidden part to avoid marks. Act quickly by tapping with a cloth soaked in a product suitable for the nature of the stain.

Updated March 19, 2024