Polyester is a synthetic fabric that is usually wrinkle, fade and shrink resistant if properly cared for. In addition, polyester is also used as a blend to make cotton or other fabrics more durable. However, like other fabrics, polyester also has its drawbacks. Polyester can form tiny balls of yarn and is easily soiled by oily stains. In addition, this material is also susceptible to static electricity. As a result, polyester materials must be treated properly so that they remain in good condition and appearance.
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Part 1 of 3: Preparing the Polyester for Washing
Step 1. Read clothing labels before washing
The best way to wash polyester properly is to follow the care instructions on the clothing label. This way, you can maintain the appearance and condition of your polyester garments so they last longer. Consider the following:
- If the words "Dry Clean Only" are written on the label, the clothes should be taken to a professional laundry service.
- However, if the label says, "Dry Clean" it is usually safer to wash it manually.
- If in doubt, follow the care instructions on the clothing label.
Step 2. Turn the polyester garment over before washing
Polyester blend fabrics tend to tear easily and get caught in buckles, trim, or buttons from other clothing. To prevent this, turn the clothes over before putting them in the washing machine.
Step 3. Soak the white polyester cloth overnight
Mix 3.8 liters of warm water and cup of automatic dishwashing detergent and soak your white polyester cloth in it overnight. This will help remove dirt and stains from white fabrics before washing them in the washing machine.
- If you don't have much time, soak it for 1-2 hours.
- Dish detergent helps lighten whites in clothes.
- Consider using bleach for color if your polyester clothes are very dirty.
- Do not use bleach to wash white polyester clothes.
Part 2 of 3: Washing Polyester
Step 1. Select the permanent press cycle to wash polyester clothes
Many experts recommend using a permanent press for your polyester garments. With this cycle, your fabric is cooled before the cycle spins. This lowers the chances of your clothes getting wrinkled after washing.
Step 2. Use warm water when washing polyester clothes
Most experts agree that warm water is best for washing polyester fabrics. Warm water provides the best balance for cleaning and protecting your polyester garments. Therefore, use warm water if you want to extend the life of your polyester garments.
- Cold water can't clean polyester clothes effectively, especially oil stains.
- Over time, hot water will shrink and fade the color of the polyester garment.
- The warm water will help clean the stain and keep the shape and size of the clothes.
Step 3. Choose a standard detergent that is not too harsh on your polyester clothes
Most standard detergents are suitable for washing polyester fabrics. Do not choose a detergent that is “stainless” or formulated for deep washing. These detergents will fade the color and damage the quality of the fabric.
Step 4. Pour in fabric softener to reduce the impact of static electricity
Polyester material is susceptible to static electricity. Static electricity makes small and light objects stick to larger objects. For example, if you wash a polyester garment with a white towel, you will see white threads sticking to your polyester fabric.
Step 5. Wash polyester clothes manually to protect their quality
Manually washing polyester fabric is a surefire way to maintain its quality. However, if you do decide to do it, make sure you wash gently and don't rush. When washing by hand:
- Soak in warm water mixed with a mild detergent.
- Stir in warm water.
- Rinse with clean cold water.
- Fold your clothes and press against the sides of the basin to squeeze out any remaining water.
- Clothes that are dirty with oily stains or yellowed from a long time must be washed in a washing machine to restore their condition.
Part 3 of 3: Drying Polyester Fabrics
Step 1. Use a dryer sheet or fabric softener, if you prefer
Since polyester fabrics are susceptible to static electricity, we recommend using a dryer sheet. The dryer sheet will reduce static electricity inside the dryer. In addition, drying sheets will help reduce wrinkles in polyester fabrics. Consider the following:
- If you've used fabric softener when washing, you no longer need to use a dryer sheet.
- Most dryer sheets have a fragrance. So, choose a scent that you like.
- This step is optional.
Step 2. Put the cloth in the dryer on a low heat setting
Before drying the polyester fabric in the dryer, make sure the heat is set to the lowest temperature. This is because polyester can melt or shrink when exposed to high heat. Depending on the reliability of your dryer, a low heat setting is safe for most polyester fabrics.
- Do a test with a polyester cloth if you don't really care if the dryer is new or used.
- If you want to maintain the quality of the polyester, lower the heat setting as low as possible.
- Read your dryer's manual if you have questions about the dryer's heat level.
Step 3. Air the fabric to protect its quality and prevent it from shrinking
One of the most effective ways to prevent shrinkage or other damage when drying polyester fabric is to air dry your polyester fabric. Consider the following:
- Hang the polyester fabric on a plastic hanger or clothesline.
- Make sure you hang your clothes outdoors when the weather is sunny and dry and the airflow is good.
- Remove your clothesline when it is dry.
