How to Clean Acetate Polyester
Cleaning synthetic fibers like acetate polyester takes a gentle touch. Acetate polyester, manufactured from cellulose, does not absorb water well, is not particularly colorfast and its fibers become weaker and easier to break when they are wet.
Many manufacturers of acetate polyester recommend professional dry-cleaning for best results. If you carefully handle the fabric, however, it can be successfully washed at home with no damage to the delicate material.
Things You Will Need
- Water
- Hand-washing detergent
Tip
Velvet and pile type acetate polyester should only be dry-cleaned. Water will destroy the finish of those fabrics. Acetate polyester blended with silk should only be dry-cleaned. Water may cause the color in the fabric to bleed. Never steam-press acetate polyester before it is fully dried. It may lose its shine and some of its color. If the label says "dry clean only," take the garment to the cleaners.
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Hand-wash the garment in warm water (body temperature) and a hand-washing detergent according to the manufacturer's instructions. As you agitate the fabric in the water, handle it gently.
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Squeeze out excess water from the garment with care. Do not wring the garment as its fibers are delicate.
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Hang the garment to dry in a spot out of direct sunlight and high heat.
The Drip Cap
- Cleaning synthetic fibers like acetate polyester takes a gentle touch.
- As you agitate the fabric in the water, handle it gently.
Writer Bio
Based in Houston, Texas, Meg Butler is a professional farmer, house flipper and landscaper. When not busy learning about homes and appliances she's sharing that knowledge. Butler began blogging, editing and writing in 2000. Her work has appered in the "Houston Press" and several other publications. She has an A.A. in journalism and a B.A. in history from New York University.
Photo Credits
- Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
- Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
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