Here’s how to wash polyester clothes in the washing machine:
- 1. Check the garment’s care label for specific instructions
- 2. Pre-treat any stains
- 3. Separate your polyester clothes by color and fabric type
- 4. Add a laundry pod to your washer drum
- 5. Use cool water
- 6. Select the gentle wash cycle
- 7. Tumble dry on low heat
Polyester is everywhere, from your favorite pair of leggings to your bedsheets to that questionable Hawaiian shirt you bought on a whim. We all own it, we all wear it, but do we all know how to wash it without turning it into a wrinkled mess?
Washing polyester isn’t rocket science, but it does require a bit more finesse than just tossing it in with your jeans and praying for the best.
So, let’s dive into the deceptively simple world of polyester care and ensure you’re strutting around in wrinkle-free, static-free style. Because, let’s face it, you’ve got enough to worry about without adding laundry fails to the list.
1. Check the Care Label
Before you throw any polyester clothes in the wash, check the care label to make sure it’s not woven with other types of fabrics that require special care. This little tag is your best friend, offering crucial advice specific to your garment. It’s like a cheat sheet for laundry success.
Ignoring it? That’s like trying to assemble IKEA furniture without instructions—you're asking for trouble.
2. Pre-Treat Any Stains
Got a pesky stain? Don’t just hope for the best and toss it in the wash. Pre-treating stains is key to keeping your polyester looking pristine. Use a stain remover or rub a little bit of dish soap directly on the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, and then proceed with washing. Your future self will thank you.
3. Separate by Color and Fabric Type
Separating laundry might feel like a chore, but mixing colors and fabrics is a recipe for disaster. Keep your darks, lights, and delicates in separate piles. Polyester might be tough, but it doesn’t play well with rougher fabrics like denim. A little sorting goes a long way in maintaining the quality of your clothes.
4. Add a Laundry Pod to Your Washer Drum
Laundry pods are the modern-day laundry hero—convenient, mess-free, and effective. Pop one directly into your washer drum before adding your polyester garments. They dissolve quickly and distribute detergent evenly, ensuring a thorough clean. Plus, they save you from the hassle of measuring out liquid detergent.
Don’t settle for boring scents like Spring Breeze. Pamper your polyester with Laundry Sauce: the best-smelling laundry detergent in the game.
5. Use Cool Water
It’s best to wash your polyester items in cool or cold water. Lower temperatures prevent shrinking, fading, and other fabric mishaps. So, turn that dial down and let your clothes enjoy a cool, refreshing rinse.
6. Use a Gentle Wash Cycle
Polyester is durable, but a gentle wash cycle is your best bet to keep it looking its best. The gentler agitation helps prevent fraying, pilling, and other wear-and-tear. Think of it as giving your clothes a nice, relaxing spa day instead of a harsh workout.
7. Tumble Dry on Low Heat
When it comes to drying polyester, low heat is the way to go. High heat can cause the fibers to shrink or warp, leading to a less-than-perfect fit. Set your dryer to low heat and let it tumble until your clothes are just dry.
Pro tip: Toss in a dryer sheet or a few wool dryer balls to prevent static cling.
If you’re feeling extra cautious, hang them up to air dry.
Common Questions About Washing Polyester
Now that you know how to wash polyester like a pro, let’s cover some common questions you might have when laundry day rolls around.
Can You Machine-Wash 100% Polyester?
Absolutely, you can machine-wash 100% polyester. Just be sure to use a gentle cycle and cool water to keep the fabric in good shape.
Should You Wash Polyester Separately?
It’s a good idea to wash polyester separately from heavier or rougher fabrics. This prevents snagging and ensures your polyester clothes maintain their quality and look.
Does Polyester Shrink in the Wash?
Polyester is pretty resilient and doesn't typically shrink in the wash, especially if you use cool water. However, excessive heat during washing or drying can cause some shrinkage.
Can You Put Polyester in the Dryer?
Yes, you can put polyester in the dryer, but stick to a low heat setting. High heat can damage the fibers and lead to shrinkage or warping.
Pamper Your Polyester Clothes with Laundry Sauce
Whether you’re washing bedding, swimwear, or everyday outfits, your polyester deserves top-notch care—and it starts with the best laundry detergent. That’s where Laundry Sauce comes in.
Our high-performance, premium-scented laundry products are designed to make your garments smell as amazing as they look. Developed with powerful science-based formulas and infused with sophisticated fragrance like Australian Sandalwood and French Saffron, you can rest assured your polyester will come out clean, fresh, and scent-sational every time.
