Polyester is resistant to water and stains; however, it is not resistant to oil. As a synthetic material, polyester can be more challenging to clean than natural fibres when it comes to oil stains. Learn how to remove oil from polyester fabrics the easy way!
Bean bags - especially those in polyester - are durable and exciting pieces of furniture. With proper care and maintenance, you are likely to enjoy your bean bag for many years to come. However, you might need to know how to remove oil stains from polyester at least once during the life of your bean bag. But don’t fret! There are two cleaning methods you can use to restore your stained bean bag to its original appearance. Dried oil stains are particularly difficult to remove from polyester.
Polyester Fabric and Bean Bags - An Overview
Polyester is a miracle material that entered the market in 1951 and quickly became incredibly popular due to its versatility and durability. In terms of materials, polyester is a blend of synthetic polymers, making it a type of synthetic material. Unlike natural fibres, synthetic materials like polyester are generally more stain-resistant, but they can present unique challenges when it comes to oil stains. Polyester can last for many years with proper care, and it is easy to wash and clean. That’s why polyester is ideal for outdoor bean bags! But is polyester fabric waterproof? Generally, polyester bean bags are considered waterproof and resistant to stains. So, no need to worry about deep cleaning them or protecting them against water stains! However, when it comes down to oil stains, the matter is a little different. Indeed, polyester covers often suffer from damage caused by oil and grease stains, for which you will need to apply a more intensive treatment. While polyester is exceptionally durable and versatile, it is essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the label of the bean bag cover. More delicate fabrics may require different or gentler cleaning methods. Below, you’ll find two easy-to-follow procedures for cleaning your bean bags of oil or grease stains.
Identifying Oil Stains on Polyester
Spotting oil stains on polyester fabrics early is key to successful stain removal. Polyester, being a synthetic fibre, tends to attract and hold onto grease stains and oil stains more than some other materials. Common culprits include cooking oil, salad dressings, and other oily substances that can leave behind darkened patches or shiny spots on your fabric. These oily stains may appear as slightly darker or discoloured areas, sometimes with a subtle sheen, especially when the fabric catches the light.
Acting quickly is crucial, as oil stains can permanently set into polyester if left untreated. The sooner you address the stain, the easier it will be to remove oil stains before they become a stubborn problem. Warm or hot water can help loosen the oil, making it easier for cleaning solutions, such as dish soap, baking soda, or white distilled vinegar, to break down the grease. These home remedies are effective for treating fresh stains, but always check the care label before applying any cleaning solution to your polyester fabrics. By identifying and treating oil stains promptly, you can keep your polyester items looking their best and avoid the hassle of set-in stains.
How to Remove Oil Stains From Polyester
Before proceeding with the procedures for cleaning your bean bag, there are some guidelines to keep in mind to protect your bean bag from damage. Here is what you need to know!
Using a stain-pretreatment product or method before washing can help loosen stubborn oil stains and enhance cleaning results.
Protect Surrounding Surfaces
Before attempting to clean the cover of your bean bag, it is essential to protect the area where you will operate. Indeed, you might be using chemicals and detergents that can stain surrounding materials and surfaces. For this step, you will need an old cloth, a used rag, or an old towel to place below the bean bag while cleaning it.
Gather All the Material Before Starting
As we will soon see, leaving chemicals on the bean bag surface for too long can damage the cover. It is recommended to have all the materials and tools needed at your disposal before starting to remove oil from polyester.
Additionally, having paper towels ready is helpful for blotting excess oil from the fabric before cleaning.
Take Care of the Oil or Grease Stain As Soon as Possible
If you have noticed an oil or grease stain on your outdoor bean bag, don’t wait any longer to clean it! The sooner you act, the easier it will be to remove oil stains from polyester. The longer the stain stays on the fabric, the harder it will be to clean. While it will still be possible, it may require you to repeat the treatment several times, which can result in a time- and energy-consuming procedure.
Absorb the Oil Before Cleaning
Before using any detergent on the stain, it is essential to absorb the moisture in excess. This is another reason why cleaning fresh oil stains is much more comfortable and straightforward than attempting to eliminate old or dry dirt. Absorbing this type of moisture is possible through the methods we’ll see below. Alternatively, you can sprinkle artificial sweeteners or baby powder on fresh oil stains to help absorb excess oil before cleaning. Baking soda can also absorb oil and enhance the detergent's effectiveness in the washing process.
Always Follow the Manufacturer's Recommendations
To remove oil from polyester, you are likely to use detergents before washing the cover in a washing machine. While polyester is exceptionally durable and versatile, it is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions on the label of the bean bag cover. You may also notice that the bean bag cover is labelled 'hand wash only' - please pay special attention to these instructions. This step is particularly essential to preserve the beauty of the dye and the comfort of the fabric!
Products to Use
While polyester is generally resistant to mild abrasion and chemicals, it is best to avoid using harsh chemicals on this material. Among other abrasive solutions, it is crucial to avoid products containing bleach. Instead, for treating oil stains, use a liquid detergent, such as liquid laundry detergent or dish soap, as it can penetrate polyester fibres more effectively. The choice of detergent is crucial when treating oil stains, as heavy-duty options often yield the best results.
How to Remove Oil From Polyester - Method 1
This method is efficient because table salt helps you absorb much of the moisture from the stain when attempting to remove oil from polyester. Hovering over dry or old stains might not be the best solution! For removing stains from polyester, it's most effective to use the warmest water recommended on the care label, as both hot and cold water can play a role depending on the type of stain.
What You'll Need
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Paper towel - avoid dyed ones or opt for a clean cloth towel or an old towel
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Liquid Laundry Detergent
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Salt - any table salt will work
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Baking soda - optional, but useful to eliminate odours when mixed with salt
Prepare the Area
Remove the polyester cover from your bean bag and lay it on a cloth or rag to protect surrounding surfaces.
Apply the Salt
Sprinkle the salt over the area of the cover affected by the stain. Just like baking soda or cornstarch, the salt will behave as a natural absorbent, clearing all moisture from the stain. To ensure the salt penetrates through the fibres, gently rub it against the stain with your fingers.
Let It Rest
Allowing the salt to rest on the stain for at least one hour will give it sufficient time to absorb all the moisture. Then, wipe or shake off the salt (which will be greasy!) from the bean bag cover. You can use a dry sponge or soft-bristle brush.
Use the Laundry Detergent
Now, apply the detergent on the backside of the cover or use a liquid detergent for better penetration of the fibres. Use a towel of your choice to work the cleaning product through the fibres. Then, continue to blot the stain until the signs of grease fade off.
Wash the Cover in the Washing Machine
Apply the laundry detergent on both sides of the cover and wash it in the washing machine. If the stain remains visible after washing, avoid drying the cover and repeat the cleaning process. Use the highest temperature possible or follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
How to Remove Oil From Polyester - Method 2
This method does not require the stain to be recent to work well. Indeed, since you will be using dish soap rather than salt, you can attempt to remove any oil stains from polyester. This method is especially effective for dried oil stains, set in grease stains, or old grease stains that are difficult to remove with other methods. Baking soda can enhance the cleaning power of your wash, especially for stubborn stains. If you prefer a more natural solution than dish soap, you can create a blend of:
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Baking soda
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Salt
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White vinegar
This solution is milder than dish soap but just as effective.
What You'll Need
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Hot water or cold water for delicate fabrics
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Dish soap (or the solution we have seen above)
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Laundry soap
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An old toothbrush or soft-bristle brush
Moisten the Area
Use the hot water at your disposal to moisten or dump the area with the oil stain. For delicate fabrics, consider using cold water to avoid setting the stain. This will make it easier to work the detergent through the fibres around the stain.
Apply the Soap
When selecting your dish soap, ensure it is grease-fighting but does not contain bleach. Dishwashing liquid is particularly effective at breaking down oil stains on polyester. Indeed, you will need to leave the detergent on the stain for a certain amount of time. Making sure it is mild enough not to damage the fabric is essential. Apply the soap on the stain.
Use an Old Toothbrush to Rub the Soap on the Stain
Using an old toothbrush or a soft-bristled brush, gently rub the soap onto the stain. Allow it to rest on the bean bag cover for as long as possible, but ensure the dish soap does not dry on the fabric. It is crucial to rinse the fabric thoroughly after applying dish soap before washing it.
Rinse the Area
Use running hot or warm water to rinse the area until free of detergent. If the stain has not fully gone, you might need to repeat the process one more time. If the stain remains after rinsing, repeat the cleaning process before drying the fabric.
Wash the Cover in the Washing Machine
Once the stain appears to have been removed, it is time to wash your bean bag cover in the washing machine. To do so, use a standard detergent and ensure that the settings reflect the manufacturer’s instructions.
After washing, it is recommended to line dry the cover, especially if it was treated for oil or grease stains, to reduce the risk of fire.
Drying and Caring for Polyester After Stain Removal
Once you’ve finished removing oil stains from your polyester fabrics, it’s important to dry and care for them properly to ensure the stain is completely gone and to protect the fabric. Air drying is the safest option, as using high heat in a dryer can cause any remaining oil or grease stains to set permanently, making future stain removal much more difficult. If you must use a dryer, select the lowest heat setting to minimise the risk of damage.
Before drying, gently rub the stained area with a paper towel or an old cloth to remove any excess oil that may still be present. For tough stains, don’t hesitate to repeat the stain removal process until the stain is completely removed. When washing polyester fabrics, always use a mild detergent and follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the care label to avoid damaging the synthetic fibres. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can weaken the fabric and increase its susceptibility to future stains. By treating stains promptly and caring for your polyester items with gentle washing and air drying, you’ll keep your fabrics looking fresh and free from stubborn oil stains.
Preventive Measures to Avoid Future Oil Stains
Taking a few simple preventive steps can help you avoid dealing with oil and grease stains on your polyester clothes and fabrics in the first place. When cooking or working with oil-based products, wear an apron to protect your clothing from accidental splashes and spills. Using protective covers on surfaces that are prone to oil splatters, such as kitchen counters or dining chairs, can also help keep your fabrics stain-free. Properly storing and handling oil-based products reduces the risk of accidental spills that can lead to tough stains.
In the kitchen, a splatter guard is a great tool for preventing cooking oil from splattering onto your clothes. Regularly cleaning and maintaining your polyester fabrics will also help prevent oil stains from setting in and becoming stubborn. For added protection, use a stain remover or laundry detergent specifically designed for oil and grease stains, especially on items that are frequently exposed to oils and greases. Always check the garment label and follow the manufacturer’s washing and drying instructions to ensure the best results and prolong the life of your fabrics. By following these preventive measures, you’ll make stain removal easier and keep your polyester items looking their best.
Warning
Now you know enough to start cleaning your polyester bean bag covers. However, there are a few words of caution you should keep in mind when doing so. These are important to protect your health and the quality of the fabric. Using the correct method to remove grease stains is crucial, as improper techniques can set the stain permanently and damage the fabric.
Don't Leave Any Chemicals on the Cover for Too Long
Even if polyester is stain-resistant and durable, it is not immune to the damage that chemicals can cause. Even something as mild as simple laundry detergent, if left on the stain for too long, can leave behind stains and blots. Generally, it is best to avoid letting the chemicals dry on the fabric.
Spot-Test Every Chemical
Sometimes, you may encounter larger sections of dirt or multiple stains. However, before applying a certain chemical or detergent to the fabric, you should ensure that the polyester will not be damaged by it. Generally, to remove oil from polyester, you should proceed with a spot test. For this step, apply the chemical on a hidden part of the bean bag and proceed with one of the methods above as if you were cleaning a stain. Then, rinse the detergent and wait for the area to dry. If the chemical has left no residue, you are safe to use it elsewhere.
Repeat the Treatment If Necessary
Especially in the case of old, dry, or stubborn stains, or a particularly stubborn stain, a mild detergent once won’t be enough to remove oil from polyester. In this case, you might need to repeat the treatment several times until the stain is no longer visible, and the bean bag cover is fully clean. If this does not happen, it is recommended to bring the bean bag cover to a professional cleaner rather than using harsh chemicals on it! Never place an oil-stained garment in the dryer, as high heat can permanently set the stain.
Enjoy Your Bean Bag!
Now that your bean bag is clean and looks like new, you can go back to enjoying entire afternoons at the poolside. Just make sure you keep greasy food away from the just-cleaned fabric!
