Washing polyester

Although the very word "polyester" for many brings to mind glossy tracksuits à la Vanilla Ice, large floral blouses or nineties tube tops, polyester is a more common material in clothing than many people think. From the most stylish dresses to your favorite sweatpants, polyester has a tendency to find its way into most wardrobes. Thanks to its almost unlimited use and flexibility, you will often also find polyester in activity clothing.

What is polyester?

Polyester is a kind of synthetic fiber and is made from oil that is refined in several stages at refineries and petrochemical industries. After the raw materials have been purified, they are assembled to form long molecular chains, so-called polymers. The polymers can be used for both fibers and plastics, and of course also in clothing.

Polyester is a strong and durable material that is naturally water-repellent, and is therefore often used in outdoor clothing such as jackets and durable trousers. Parkas, fleece, jackets and coveralls often consist wholly or partly of polyester, and if they are also treated with some form of impregnation, the garments are often completely waterproof.

Washing polyester

Washing polyester is easier than many people think. But since most of us have a wardrobe consisting of a wild mix of garments and materials, we are going to look at some smart and simple washing tips for polyester.

Check the washing label

Jackets and other garments made of polyester are usually designed to withstand the washing machine and dryer, which is great news for all of us who are not passionate about washing. BUT, polyester is often mixed with other materials in the same garment, and the other materials may not be as tough as polyester. Therefore, double-check the washing label before washing that stylish top.

Avoid heat

Because polyester is a synthetic material, high heat and heat can break down the fibers and damage the fabric. Therefore, avoid washing your polyester garments in too hot water, and in some cases (depending on what the washing label says) it’s best to stick to cold water.

Do not over-dry polyester

Just like when washing, it is important not to tumble dry the polyester on too high a heat. One of the most important steps when washing polyester is to dry the garments properly to avoid damaging the fibers of the fabric and maintaining the longevity of the clothes. If you have the time and space, you can of course let your polyester garments air dry.

Washing polyester – quick advice

• As always, it is a good idea to first look at the washing label and washing symbols on your garments before you wash them – whether you are washing by hand or in a washing machine.
• How to wash your polyester jacket depends on how dirty it is and in what way. If there are stains on your polyester garment, always pre-treat the stains with detergent or stain remover before washing them, for the best possible washing results.
• Always turn your polyester garments inside out before putting them in the washing machine. In this way, you avoid zippers, buckles and velcro straps – usually found on activity garments – tearing apart other garments.
• Choose a polyester washing program on the washing machine.
• White polyester clothing regains its fresh colour if you leave the garment in a mixture of warm water and detergent overnight. Then wash in the washing machine as usual, but feel free to add a deciliter of vinegar to the last rinse.