Introduction
Polyester is one of the most commonly used synthetic materials on the planet. It is used in clothing, household textiles (curtains, upholstery), and industrial textiles (ropes, conveyor belts). The fabric is appreciated for its durability, affordability, wrinkle resistance and low maintenance. Yet while polyester comes with many advantages, it’s synthetic nature poses its own cleaning and maintenance challenges.
Old-school polyester cleaning practices, using chemically based detergents, boiling water and energy-rich drying processes are often environmentally damaging. Such traditional approaches pollute our water supplies, use up our power and contribute to the dispersal of microplastics into our oceans. As sustainability looms larger than ever, environmentally friendly cleaning technologies should be the go-to choice to help save the environment and preserve the quality and life of polyester clothes.
In this article, I want to show you sustainable and eco-friendly methods of cleaning and caring for polyesters. From using biodegradable detergents to adopting sustainable washing practices, we will dive into real-world solutions to minimize your carbon footprint while ensuring that your polyester products are fresh, clean and durable.
1. Why Choose Natural Polyester Cleaning?
a. Environmental Impact of Traditional Cleaning
The traditional techniques of washing polyester fabrics are easy to handle, but carry several environmental limitations:
1. Chemical Pollution
The majority of standard detergents contain harsh chemicals including phosphates, sulfates, and artificial scents.
These chemicals often do not completely dissolve in water, polluting rivers, lakes and oceans.
They wreak havoc with aquatic ecosystems, kill marine animals and pollute water.
2. Energy Consumption
The hot water wash you normally use to wash synthetic clothes uses a lot of energy.
Likewise, machine drying polyester clothing at very high temperatures uses huge amounts of electricity.
As far as research is concerned, around 90% of the energy involved in washing clothes goes to heating the water.
3. Microplastic Shedding
As a synthetic fibre, polyester loses microscopic plastic bits (microplastics) when washed.
These microplastics are small enough to pass through the filters of sewage treatment facilities, and they can end up in surface waters.
Microplastics enter marine life, affecting health and potentially becoming part of our food supply.
b. Benefits of Eco-Friendly Cleaning
Eco-friendly polyester cleaning has many benefits for you, the environment and your clothing:
1. Reduced Water and Energy Usage
- Cold-water washing polyester and drying it in the dryer will drastically cut your home’s water and electricity use.
- These habits not only save money on energy, but also save natural resources.
2. Lower Chemical Pollution
- Biodegradable, plant-based detergents reduce the impact of harmful chemicals on the environment.
- Sustainable cleaning products are designed to decompose naturally, saving the planet.
3. Longer Lifespan of Polyester Garments
- Wetter cleaning practices maintain the structure of polyester fibres, preventing damage.
- This keeps your clothes longer and saves you time and money from frequent replacements and waste.
2. Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products for Polyester
Selecting the right cleaning solutions is one of the most important components of a sustainable polyester care approach. Here are some eco-friendly options:
a. Plant-Based Detergents
Detergents made of plants will not harm the environment or contain harmful chemicals such as phosphates, sulfates and artificial fragrances. They are gentle on polyester and the environment.
Benefits:
- Suitable for septic tanks and aquatic environments.
- Away from irritating chemicals that could ruin the artificial fibres.
Examples of Eco-Friendly Detergent Brands:
- Ecover – Composed of plant-based materials and packaged in recyclable containers.
- Seventh Generation – Famous for their biodegradable, hypoallergenic formulas.
- Mrs Meyer’s Clean Day – A variety of environmentally friendly laundry detergents that smell natural.
b. DIY Natural Cleaners
Homemade detergents can be a much cheaper and greener alternative to commercial detergents.
Recipe for DIY Natural Detergent:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of baking soda.
- 1 c. liquid Castile soap.
- 10-15 drops of fragrance oil (lavender, lemon, tea tree)
Instructions:
- Pour the baking soda and liquid Castile soap into a jar.
- Add the essential oil and stir.
- Add 2-3 tablespoons per load of laundry.
c. Use Vinegar and Baking Soda To Get Rid Of The Stains
Vinegar and baking soda are useful household products that can also be used as natural stain removers and softeners.
How to Use:
For Stain Removal:
- Spread baking soda over the stain and mist it with white vinegar.
- Allow it to bubble for a few minutes, then lather and wash off.
As a Fabric Softener:
Add 1/2 cup white vinegar to your washing machine’s fabric softener container.
d. Oxygen Bleach (Non-Chlorine)
For whitening and brightening polyester, oxygen bleach is a safer choice than chlorine bleach.
Benefits:
- Non-toxic and biodegradable.
- Strong enough to stain but not corrode synthetic fibers.
How to Use:
- Put 1-2 tsp of oxygen bleach into a gallon of warm water.
- Place the clothes in water for 30 minutes and then dry it as usual.
3. Sustainable Washing Practices for Polyester
Clean polyester in the most eco-friendly ways possible without using any extra water to clean it.
a. Washing in Cold Water
Using cold water to wash polyester is one of the easiest ways to cut your power consumption and preserve our planet.
Benefits:
- Conserves energy by avoiding water heating.
- Eliminates color-fading and fiber damage from hot water.
Tips:
- For best results, use a cold water detergent.
- Polyester items should be washed individually or with a like color in order to eliminate pilling.
b. Guppyfriend Bag/Cora Ball)
These cutting-edge devices prevent microfiber contamination during washing:
Guppyfriend Bag:
- A mesh bag that collects the microfibers that are lost from synthetic fabrics.
- Simple to use- just stick your clothes in the bag and wash them.
Cora Ball:
- A laundry ball that collects microfibers when they come off the washing machine.
- Place it in the drum with your wash for microfiber removal.
c. Hand Washing
Washing with hands is more environmentally friendly than washing by machine.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Add cold or lukewarm water to a basin.
- Just squeeze in a tiny bit of eco detergent.
- Place the outfit into water and agitate it for a few minutes.
- Rinse and wring the water out.
- Set the shirt flat to dry.
4. Eco-Friendly Drying Methods
Drying polyester in an environmentally friendly manner can save energy and increase the fabric’s life.
a. Air Drying
Polyester fabrics dry most sustainably by air drying.
Benefits:
- Saves energy and lowers your carbon footprint.
- Prevents heat damage and shrinkage.
Tips for Effective Air Drying:
- Dry your clothes on a drying rack or line them up on a clothesline in a well-ventilated place.
- Do not put it in direct sunlight to stop the color from fading.
b. Low-Heat Tumble Drying
If you have to run a dryer, choose the lowest heat setting to save energy and reduce wear and tear.
Tips:
- Remove clothes as soon as possible to avoid wrinkles and static.
- Using wool dryer balls will minimize drying times and make fabrics naturally soft.
5. Eco-Friendly Stain Removal Techniques
Polyester is a durable fabric, but staining can still be an issue. Using eco-friendly stain removal tools not only helps the environment but also preserves the fabric. The following are natural, effective treatments:
a. Spot Cleaning with Natural Solutions
Spot cleaning involves tackling specific stains without washing the entire cloth. For small stain removal, home remedies such as lemon juice, vinegar, and baking soda can do the trick very well.
1. Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is a natural bleach that works well on white polyester.
How to Use:
- Apply fresh lemon juice to the mark.
- Let the juice sit for 15-20 minutes.
- Wash off the stain with cold water and check if it comes off.
- Do this again if necessary, then wash the item as usual.
2. White Vinegar
White vinegar is perfect for scrubbing grease, oil, and deodorant stains.
How to Use:
- Prepare equal quantities of white vinegar and water.
- Spray the solution onto a clean cloth and wipe away the stain.
- Give it 10-15 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with cold water.
Recommendation: To remove stains that are extremely difficult to remove, mix vinegar with baking soda to form a mild acidic solution.
3. Baking Soda
Baking soda is an effective stain remover and deodorant, and is useful for sweat stains and odors.
How to Use:
- Apply baking soda directly to the stain.
- Squeeze in some water to form a paste.
- Wash the area with a soft brush or cloth.
- Do not launder or wash with detergent.
b. Pre-Soaking in Eco-Friendly Solutions
In the case of persistent stains, pre-soaking polyester clothes in eco-friendly detergents works well. This technique enables cleaning products to penetrate the fabric and dissolve greasy stains.
1. Oxygen Bleach (Non-Chlorine)
Oxygen bleach is a safer, environmentally friendly version of chlorine bleach.
How to Use:
Make sure you have 1-2 tablespoons of oxygen bleach, and one gallon of warm water.
: Put the stained shirt in water and let it soak for 30 minutes- 1 hour.
Wash thoroughly and normally.
Tips: Always read the manufacturer’s label to ensure oxygen bleach is appropriate for your polyester garment.
2. Baking Soda Solution
Baking soda can also be pre-soaked to remove odors and stains.
How to Use:
- Put 1/2 cup of baking soda in a bowl of hot water.
- The garment should be soaked for at least 1 hour, or overnight for heavy stains.
- Wash the fabric as normal.
Tips for Pre-Soaking:
- Cold or lukewarm water should be sufficient to prevent polyester fibers from separating.
- Do not soak too much, as repeated immersion can ruin the fabric in the long run.
6. Reducing Microplastic Pollution
a. Understanding Microplastic Shedding
Polyester, like all synthetic fabrics, collects small plastic chunks called microplastics during washing. These granules are too tiny to pass through sewage treatment plants and tend to sink into the oceans and rivers.
Environmental Impact:
- Aquatic Animals: Microplastics get eaten by aquatic animals, causing physical damage and poison.
- Food Chain Contamination: Microplastics from aquatic organisms may get into our food supply, thereby impacting our health.
- Environmental Impacts: Microplastics also pollute the entire body of water, damaging ecosystems and biodiversity.
b. Prevention Tips
There’s no way to stop microplastic shedding altogether, but you can reduce it:
1. Wash Less Frequently
- Just wash polyester clothes if necessary to prevent fiber loss.
- Clean tiny stains rather than thoroughly cleaning the fabric.
2. Use Short, Gentle Wash Cycles
- Select shorter, lower agitation cycles to minimize friction and fiber fall.
- Use the delicate or synthetic setting on your washer.
3. Invest in Microplastic Filters
- Guppyfriend Washing Bag: Captures microplastics in the wash. Simply put your clothes in the bag, then wash them.
- Cora Ball: A laundry ball that absorbs microfibers when you wash it, thus decreasing the amount of microplastics released into the water.
- Washer Filters: Purchase a filter that traps microfibers and prevents them from contaminating the water supply.
7. Maximizing Polyester Wear’s Life Cycle.
Prolonging the life of your polyester apparel helps reduce waste and has the least impact on the environment. Care, storage, and repair can greatly prolong the lifespan of these things.
a. Proper Storage Techniques
Properly storing polyester clothing preserves its shape and saves it from damage.
Tips:
- Keeping it cool and dry will prevent moisture accumulation, which can cause mold and mildew.
- Keep inbreathable garment bags for long-term storage to avoid collecting dust.
- Don’t crowd your closet with clothing that will cause wrinkles and creases.
b. Repairing Instead of Replacing
Minor tears, untidy seams or buttonholes need not render an item unusable.
Basic Sewing Repairs:
Torn Seams:
- Sew the seam closed with a needle and polyester thread.
- Double stitch to ensure extra strength.
Small Holes:
- Cover the hole with an iron-on patch or close it using a needle and thread and stitch it shut.
- Match thread color to garment to stitch into place.
Loose Buttons:
Back-sew buttons with needle and thread to ensure they’re secured.
c. Upcycling and Recycling Polyester
When a piece is irredeemable, upcycle or recycle it rather than throwing it away.
Upcycling Ideas:
- Tote Bags: Use old polyester shirts to create reuseable tote bags.
- Clothes Washing rags: Cut old clothes into clean cloths for use in the home.
- Home Decor: Use polyester fabric to make cushion covers or wall hangings.
Textile Recycling Programs:
- Most textile recycle companies and stores offer synthetic fabric recycling services.
- Find your nearest recycling center or drop-off place that accepts polyester clothing.
8. Eco-Friendly Fabric Softening Alternatives
Fabric softeners sold in stores typically have artificial chemicals that can pollute the environment and cause irritation to the skin. Here are some natural alternatives:
a. Natural Fabric Softeners
1. White Vinegar:
Acts as an organic fabric softener and prevents static cling.
Directions: Pour 1/2 cup white vinegar into the rinse cycle of your washing machine.
2. Baking Soda:
Softens fabrics and neutralizes odors.
Use: Pour 1/4 cup baking soda into the washing machine.
b. Wool Dryer Balls
Wool dryer balls are green replacements for fabric softeners and dryer sheets.
Benefits:
- Reduce drying time, saving energy.
- Naturally smooth out fabric and reduce static.
- Useable for hundreds of loads.
How to Use:
- Put 3-4 wool dryer balls into the dryer along with your polyester clothes.
- Then put a few drops of essential oil in the balls to make them naturally fragrant.
Yashvi Jain, a writer by day and reader by night, is an accomplished content writer and published author of ‘Mind Under Construction. Yashvi possesses extensive knowledge of fabrics, sustainability, and literature. On occasions, you would catch her scripting for her YouTube channel, engrossed in fiction, or ardently dedicating her time to research and storytelling.