Polyester is a synthetic fabric that is a popular textile choice widely used for many articles of clothing. It is durable, lightweight, and easy to dye. When washed properly, it also resists wrinkles, fading, and shrinking.
Before reading the rest of this article, consider reading the post Laundry 101 which contains some of the basics one may need.
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Water Temperature
Prefer using warm or cold water for polyester textiles. The water temperature should be below 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit). This prevents shrinkage and color fading. Doing laundry at hot temperatures can damage many types of fabrics.
Using hot water is still useful for eliminating bacteria, cleaning heavily soiled clothes, and sanitation in general. However, for most situations, washing in cold water is preferable.
Choose the Right Detergent
When washing clothes, it is generally advisable to use gentle eco-friendly detergents that are free from harsh chemicals. Polyester, however, can be a bit more forgiving, allowing most standard detergents to work well with this fabric.
Remember to always follow the instructions on the detergent packaging and stick to using the recommended amount for each load size.
Notes on Fabric Softeners
Polyester is quite susceptible to static cling. Adding fabric softeners can reduce static electricity, thus helping alleviate this issue.
See the post Laundry 101: Loading the Washing Machine for tips on loading your washing machine.
Choose a Wash Cycle
Before putting polyester clothes in the washer, pre-treat any stains with a stain remover, and let them soak for a few minutes.
Always opt for a normal or gentle wash cycle on the washing machine settings. Higher or harder speeds can cause wrinkles and stretching.
By using the correct settings, a garment’s lifespan can be extended, also keeping it looking fresh and clean.
Hand Washing
Pre-treat any stains with a stain remover, and let it soak for a few minutes.
Fill a clean basin or sink with cool water and add a mild or regular detergent.
Submerge the garments in the soapy water and gently agitate them for a few minutes. Rub the fabric gently if needed.
Allow the clothes to soak for 10-15 minutes.
Drain the soapy water and rinse the garments thoroughly with cool water until the water runs clear.
Gently press out the excess water without twisting or wringing the clothes.
Drying Considerations
Polyester clothes can be safely tumble dried in the dryer. Just make sure to use low heat and a short, gentle cycle. While polyester is a durable fabric, it can still be prone to shrinkage if the dryer is too hot.
Some dryers may come with a permanent press option or a synthetics dry option. These options are ideal for polyester garments.
Alternatively, air drying is also an option. Simply shake off excess water and lay them flat to dry, hang on a clothesline, or drying rack.
Ironing
While most polyester garments can be ironed, always double-check the care label to make sure. If ironing is an option, it will generally involve a low heat setting or steam iron.
See post Laundry 101: Ironing for more ironing tips.
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