Vinyl clothing has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its versatility, affordability and easy-care properties. However, like any fabric, vinyl is prone to stains that can be tricky to remove. Properly washing and removing stains from vinyl garments requires using the right techniques and products to avoid damaging the material.
Understanding Vinyl Fabrics
Vinyl, also known as PVC or polyvinyl chloride, is a versatile synthetic polymer fabric made from chlorine and ethylene. It is commonly used to make raincoats, jackets, leggings, dresses and other clothing items.
Here are some key things to know about vinyl fabric:
- Waterproof – Vinyl has an impermeable plastic coating that repels liquid. This makes it ideal for rainwear and protective outerwear.
- Durable – The vinyl coating is quite strong and does not rip or tear easily. It stands up well to regular use and washing.
- Flexible – Modern vinyl fabrics have a soft, flexible feel and are not crunchy or stiff like older vinyls. This makes vinyl clothing comfortable to wear.
- Heat-sensitive – While durable, vinyl can melt under high heat. It’s important to wash vinyl garments properly and avoid high heat settings.
- Prone to stains – The impermeable coating also makes it easy for stains to set if they are not pre-treated promptly. Oil-based stains are particularly challenging.
Preparing Vinyl Garments for Washing
Before machine washing vinyl clothes, take a few simple steps to protect the fabric and ensure the best clean:
Check Care Tags
- Always check clothing care labels for manufacturer recommendations on washing, drying and stain removal. This will provide fabric-specific guidance.
Pretreat Stains
- Apply a pretreatment spray or paste to any visible stains on vinyl fabric before washing. This helps lift and break down stubborn stains.
Close Zippers, Snaps and Hooks
- Secure all closures like zippers, snaps, hooks and drawstrings before washing. This prevents snagging and damage.
Turn Clothes Inside Out
- Flip vinyl items inside out prior to washing. This reduces abrasion damage to the outer vinyl coating during the wash cycle.
Use Laundry Bags
- Place vinyl clothing in mesh laundry bags before washing. This provides an extra layer of protection.
Avoid Overloading
- Don’t overload the washing machine. Give vinyl clothes plenty of space to move around freely in the wash to prevent bunching and friction.
Selecting the Right Detergent
Choosing a gentle, vinyl-safe detergent is key to preventing damage and discoloration when washing. Here are some detergent characteristics to look for:
- Delicate formula – Choose a laundry detergent designed specifically for delicates or synthetic fabrics. Avoid regular detergents.
- Non-chlorine bleach – Chlorine bleach can degrade and discolor vinyl. Opt for an oxygen-based bleach alternative.
- No optical brighteners – Optical brightening agents can leave vinyl looking dingy and faded over time. Choose a detergent without them.
- Low pH – Higher pH detergents can encourage vinyl coating to peel. Look for one with a pH of 5 to 7.
- No additives – Avoid detergents with added fabric softeners, whiteners or brighteners which can build up on vinyl.
- Allergen-free – Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free formulas are less likely to irritate sensitive skin.
Recommended Products: Tide Free & Gentle, The Laundress Delicate Wash, Soak Wash, Ecover Zero
Washing Vinyl Clothes by Hand
For seriously soiled or delicate vinyl items, hand washing is recommended. Here is a simple process:
1. Pretreat Stains
Apply a pretreatment spray or paste. Gently rub it into stains and let sit 5-10 minutes.
2. Fill Sink With Cool Water
Use lukewarm water, not hot. Hot water can damage vinyl.
3. Add Mild Detergent
Use a gentle, vinyl-safe hand washing detergent. Check it doesn’t contain bleach.
4. Soak the Vinyl
Allow vinyl to soak in the detergent solution for 15-20 minutes so stains can begin to lift.
5. Gently Scrub
Use a soft brush or cloth to lightly scrub stained areas. Don’t rub too hard.
6. Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse vinyl under cool running water until all suds are gone. Don’t wring or twist vinyl.
7. Air Dry
Lay vinyl flat or hang to dry. Do not machine dry vinyl clothing.
Washing Vinyl in a Machine
For machine washing vinyl fabrics, follow these steps for the best care:
1. Pretreat Stains
Spray on pretreatment and let sit before washing.
2. Use Mild Detergent
Add an appropriate amount of gentle, vinyl-safe detergent to the drum.
3. Wash on Gentle Cycle
Select the delicate or gentle cycle on your washing machine. This provides a lower-agitation wash.
4. Wash in Cool Water
Set your machine to use cold or lukewarm water. Avoid hot water over 100°F (40°C).
5. Add Clothes to a Mesh Bag
Place vinyl inside a zippered mesh bag before putting in the washing machine.
6. Use Low Spin Speed
Opt for the lowest spin speed on your machine to reduce friction and pulling.
7. Line Dry
Hang vinyl clothing or lay flat to air dry. Do not machine dry.
8. Remove Promptly
Remove vinyl clothes promptly from the washer after the cycle finishes so they don’t sit with heat.
Treating Common Vinyl Clothing Stains
Despite your best efforts, stains still happen! Here are tips for treating some typical vinyl fabric stains:
Oil-Based Stains
- Pretreat with dish soap. Gently rub in and let sit an hour before washing. Can also use baking soda paste.
Makeup and Cosmetic Stains
- Use liquid laundry detergent directly on the stain. Wipe gently with a damp cloth.
Food Stains Like Ketchup or Coffee
- Apply glycerin or rubbing alcohol to lift stain, then wash normally.
Mud or Dirt Stains
- Make a paste with baking soda and water. Spread on stain and let dry before washing.
Ink or Marker Stains
- Use isopropyl alcohol on a clean cloth to gently blot stain. Avoid rubbing.
Deodorant or Antiperspirant Buildup
- Rub area with white vinegar and water to help dissolve residue before washing.
Oxidation or Yellowing
- Gently rub lemon juice mixed with salt. Rinse and wash. Helps brighten discolored areas.
Warning: Avoid commercial spot stain removers, chemical bleaches and solvents like acetone or nail polish remover as these can damage and dissolve vinyl coating. Test any new product on an inconspicuous area first.
Drying Vinyl Clothes
It’s just as important to properly dry vinyl clothing as wash it. Follow these guidelines:
Line Dry or Flat Dry
- Always hang or lay vinyl items flat to dry. Do not machine dry them, even on low heat.
Dry in Shade
- Sunlight and UV rays can fade colored vinyl over time. Dry in shade when possible.
Dry Thoroughly
- Ensure vinyl is completely dry before storing or wearing to prevent mildew issues. May require longer drying time.
Use Crease-Resistant Hangers
- Wide, rounded plastic hangers help vinyl retain its shape and prevent crease marks from sharp hangers.
Reshape While Damp
- Lightly smooth any wrinkles with your hands while vinyl is still slightly damp and pliable from washing.
Avoid Folding When Wet
- Wait until vinyl is fully dry before folding to store. Storing when wet can cause permanent creases.
Check Before Storing
- Inspect vinyl for stains or signs of damage before storing. Catch issues early before wearing again.
Storing and Maintaining Vinyl Clothes
Follow proper storage habits to maximize the life span of your vinyl clothing:
- Avoid hanging vinyl garments for long periods. The weight can distort shape.
- Store folded vinyl in breathable cotton or mesh garment bags, not plastic which traps moisture.
- Keep vinyl clothing in a cool, dry place away from heat sources like radiators.
- Hang vinyl on wide, padded hangers to retain shape and avoid crease marks.
- Stuff shoulders with acid-free tissue paper to hold form if hanging jackets or coats.
- Keep vinyl clothing clean between wears to avoid stain buildup. Spot clean as needed.
- Use a silicone-based vinyl protectant/conditioner periodically to restore sheen and suppleness.
- Avoid overexposing vinyl to sunlight which can cause fading over time.
- Check vinyl frequently for cracks or holes developing and repair promptly to avoid further damage.
- Take vinyl clothes to a professional leather/vinyl cleaner periodically for deeper cleaning and conditioning.
Knowing When To Discard Vinyl
With proper care, quality vinyl clothing can last for years. However, it’s important to inspect items regularly and watch for signs it may be time to retire a vinyl garment:
- Fabric has become stiff, cracked, or sticky
- Coating has peeled, melted or warped in areas
- Fading, discoloration or white film appears and won’t wash out
- Fabric has thinning spots or holes
- Odor develops that cannot be removed through washing
- Stains have set that cannot be removed
- Retains creasing even after washing and drying
- Zipper or closures are broken and cannot be repaired
Retire and replace vinyl garments that display these types of signs of damage. Continuing to wear damaged vinyl that isn’t fully protective defeats the purpose of purchasing vinyl clothing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Washing Vinyl Clothes
Can you put vinyl clothing in the dryer?
No, you should never machine dry vinyl fabrics, even on a low heat setting. The heat can damage the vinyl coating, cause shrinking and affect the water-resistant properties. Always air dry vinyl instead.
Does vinyl shrink when washed?
Vinyl can shrink slightly when washed with hot water or put in the dryer. To prevent shrinkage, always use cool water and air dry vinyl items. Pre-treating stains and washing gently also reduces shrink risk.
How do you soften stiff vinyl after washing?
If vinyl fabric feels stiff after washing, try reshaping it with your hands while still slightly damp. You can also apply a small amount of vinyl protectant while damp and work it in to restore softness.
What removes yellow stains from vinyl?
For yellow discoloration or oxidation stains on vinyl, gently rub the area with lemon juice mixed with salt using a soft cloth. Let sit 5 minutes, then rinse off the juice mixture and wash the garment as usual. The citric acid helps brighten the vinyl.
Can you put vinyl clothing in the washer?
Vinyl can be machine washed, but only using the gentle or delicate cycle and cold water. The garments should also be pretreated, placed in a mesh bag and taken out promptly after washing to avoid heat damage. Hand washing is safest for some vinyl items.
Is there a homemade vinyl cleaner recipe?
Yes, you can make an effective vinyl cleaning solution at home. Mix together 1 cup of warm water, 1 tablespoon mild dish soap, 1 tablespoon baking soda and 2 tablespoons vinegar or lemon juice. Use a soft cloth to gently wipe down vinyl with the solution. Rinse thoroughly.
Conclusion
Vinyl may have a plastic feel, but it requires gentle care much like silks or wool. Following these best practices for properly washing, drying, storing and cleaning vinyl garments will help them last for many seasons. Pay attention to fabric care tags, test products first in inconspicuous spots and take action as soon as stains occur. With a little TLC, your vinyl clothing will retain its vibrant look and protective qualities for years to come.