Polyester is a plastic, so it melts rather than scorches. A hot iron leaves a permanent shiny mark that cannot be removed.
How to wash polyester
| Garment | Wash | Dry | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Polyester | 30–40°C (86–104°F) | line dry or tumble low — it dries very fast | standard; no softener on technical fabrics |
Use a normal cycle and standard; no softener on technical fabrics. It holds odour more than any natural fibre because body oils bind to the hydrophobic surface and ordinary washing does not lift them.
Drying and ironing
Dry line dry or tumble low — it dries very fast. For ironing: cool only; it melts.
A white vinegar soak before washing breaks that bond and is far more effective on set-in polyester smell than more detergent.
How long it should last
Five to ten years; it usually outlasts the wearer’s interest in it.
Quick reference
Polyester at a glance
- Wash: 30–40°C (86–104°F)
- Cycle: normal
- Detergent: standard; no softener on technical fabrics
- Dry: line dry or tumble low — it dries very fast
- Iron: cool only; it melts