Polyester is durable, colourfast and resistant to water — which makes it ideal for outdoor furniture, clothing and soft furnishings. But when it comes to oil stains, polyester behaves very differently.
Unlike water-based spills, oil doesn’t evaporate or rinse away easily. It binds to synthetic fibres and can leave dark, greasy patches if not treated correctly. The good news? With the right method, you can remove oil stains from polyester safely and effectively — even if they’ve dried.
This step-by-step guide explains exactly how to treat fresh and set-in oil stains without damaging your fabric.
Why Oil Stains Are Difficult on Polyester
Polyester is a synthetic fibre made from petroleum-based polymers. Because oil is also petroleum-based, the two have a natural affinity. That means oil tends to cling to polyester fibres instead of sitting on the surface.
This is why simply washing polyester in water rarely removes grease stains. You need a degreasing agent that can break down oil molecules before laundering.
If you’re cleaning polyester furniture such as outdoor bean bags, fast action is especially important. The longer oil sits, the deeper it penetrates.
Before You Start: Important Preparation Steps
1. Act Quickly
Fresh stains are significantly easier to remove than dried ones. If you notice oil on polyester fabric, treat it immediately.
2. Blot — Don’t Rub
Use paper towel or a clean cloth to blot excess oil. Avoid rubbing, as this pushes oil deeper into the fibres.
3. Check the Care Label
Always follow manufacturer instructions. Some polyester blends may require cold water or gentle cycles.
4. Never Put an Oily Item in the Dryer
Heat can permanently set oil stains. Always confirm the stain is fully removed before drying.
Method 1: Removing Fresh Oil Stains from Polyester
This method works best for new spills from cooking oil, sunscreen, food grease or body oils.
What You’ll Need
- Paper towels or clean cloth
- Dishwashing liquid (grease-fighting, no bleach)
- Baking soda or table salt
- Soft brush or old toothbrush
- Warm water (as per care label)
Step 1: Absorb Excess Oil
Sprinkle baking soda or salt directly onto the stain. These powders absorb surface oil before it penetrates further.
Let it sit for at least 30–60 minutes. For heavier stains, leave it longer.
Brush off the powder gently.
Step 2: Apply Dish Soap
Dishwashing liquid is designed to break down grease. Apply a small amount directly to the stained area.
Using a soft brush or toothbrush, gently work the soap into the fibres.
Step 3: Rinse with Warm Water
Rinse from the back of the fabric if possible. This helps push oil outward instead of deeper into the material.
Step 4: Wash as Normal
Launder using liquid laundry detergent and the warmest water recommended on the care label.
Air dry only. Inspect carefully before using heat.
Method 2: Removing Dried or Set-In Oil Stains
Dried oil stains require a slightly stronger approach but can still be treated safely.
What You’ll Need
- Liquid laundry detergent
- Dishwashing liquid
- Baking soda
- White vinegar (optional)
- Soft brush
- Warm water
Step 1: Rehydrate the Stain
Lightly dampen the stained area with warm water. This softens hardened grease.
Step 2: Apply Liquid Laundry Detergent
Use a heavy-duty liquid detergent directly on the stain. Liquid formulas penetrate polyester fibres more effectively than powder.
Work the detergent into the fabric using a soft brush.
Step 3: Add Baking Soda (Optional Boost)
Sprinkle baking soda over the treated area and gently rub it in. This creates a mild lifting action.
Step 4: Let It Sit
Allow the treatment to sit for 30–60 minutes. Do not let the detergent dry completely.
Step 5: Rinse and Wash
Rinse thoroughly, then machine wash according to label instructions.
Repeat if necessary before drying.
Natural Alternative Cleaning Solution
If you prefer a gentler approach, mix:
- 1 tablespoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon salt
- A small splash of white vinegar
Apply the paste to the stain and follow the same brushing and rinsing steps above.
This method is milder but may require multiple treatments for stubborn grease.
Cleaning Oil Stains from Polyester Bean Bag Covers
Polyester is commonly used in durable furniture covers because of its strength and weather resistance.
If you’re treating a removable cover from bean bag chairs, remove the cover completely before cleaning. Lay it flat on a towel to protect surrounding surfaces.
For larger pieces, such as large bean bags, ensure the fabric is fully rinsed before reinstalling the cover to prevent detergent residue.
After cleaning, always air dry fully before refilling or using.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using bleach (can damage polyester fibres)
- Applying heat before the stain is removed
- Rubbing aggressively
- Letting detergent dry on the fabric
- Ignoring the care label
Polyester is durable, but harsh treatment can weaken fibres or fade colour.
How to Prevent Oil Stains on Polyester
While accidents happen, you can reduce the risk of future stains:
- Use washable covers where possible
- Avoid eating greasy food on light-coloured fabrics
- Clean spills immediately
- Rotate and wash covers regularly
- Apply fabric protector sprays designed for synthetic materials
For outdoor settings, consider performance fabrics designed to handle sunscreen and food spills.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does hot water remove oil from polyester?
Warm water helps activate detergents, but water alone won’t remove oil. Always use a degreasing product first.
Can I use baking soda alone?
Baking soda absorbs surface oil but usually needs to be paired with dish soap or detergent for complete removal.
What if the stain doesn’t come out?
Repeat the treatment before drying. For persistent stains, consider professional cleaning rather than using harsh chemicals.
Final Thoughts
Oil stains on polyester may look permanent, but they rarely are.
The key is understanding that polyester requires a degreasing approach rather than simple washing. By absorbing excess oil, using grease-fighting detergents and avoiding heat until the stain is gone, you can restore your fabric safely.
With proper care, polyester furniture and covers can last for years — even in high-use Australian households.
