Our Academy
Jacky Zhou
May 28, 2025
Got stains or smells on your polyester bag? Don’t worry! The right cleaning method can make it look new again and last longer.
The best way to clean a polyester bag depends on how dirty it is – then you can decide whether to hand wash or machine wash. Generally, use cold or warm water with a bit of mild laundry detergent. Don’t use bleach, and don’t dry it at high temperatures. You can pre-treat very dirty spots. After washing, always let it air dry naturally. This helps the bag keep its shape and is good for the fabric.
Polyester is a material that’s durable, lightweight, and easy to care for, making it especially suitable for bags. Many of the tote bags, backpacks you use daily, and even promotional bags given out at events are made of polyester. But “easy to care for” doesn’t mean “no care needed.” Cleaning it well not only makes it look clean and smell fresh but also helps the bag last longer. As a manufacturer with over ten years of experience making bags, I’m here to explain in detail how to clean your polyester bag, covering everything from daily maintenance to a thorough deep clean.
Of course, we clean our polyester bags for more than just making them look pretty. Removing stains and dust keeps the bag looking neat. At the same time, eliminating any potential odors can improve our mood when using the bag. More importantly, a clean bag can prevent bacteria growth, making it more hygienic to use and also extending the life of the polyester bag. From our factory’s perspective, polyester itself has a relatively tight fiber structure and a smooth surface, so dirt doesn’t easily penetrate deeply, making it relatively easier to clean.
Before cleaning, the first step is to “inspect the bag thoroughly.” First, take out all items, not missing any pockets or compartments. Then, turn the bag upside down and pat it a few times, or use a small brush attachment on a vacuum cleaner to remove dust and debris from the inside.
Next, check if the bag has a care label. The label will tell you if it can be machine washed, if there are water temperature restrictions, or if certain detergents can be used. If there’s no label, don’t worry; we’ll provide general cleaning guidelines later. At the same time, you also need to observe the type of stain (oil, ink, mud, etc.), as different stains require different cleaning methods.
Pre-cleaning checklist:
Although polyester bags are sturdy and wear-resistant, they can still get stained after prolonged use. Choosing the right cleaning method not only cleans effectively but also prevents the bag from deforming or fading. Here are three common cleaning methods, listed in increasing order of “dirtiness,” so you can choose what fits your situation.
If only a small corner of the bag is dirty, like a coffee spill or some dust, there’s no need for a full wash; spot cleaning is enough.
You just need a damp cloth, dipped in a little diluted mild laundry detergent. Gently rub the stained area in a circular motion, then wipe away the detergent residue with a damp cloth. Finally, absorb the moisture with a dry towel and let it air dry in a ventilated area.
Quick tip: It’s best to treat fresh stains immediately for better removal and to prevent them from setting.
When the whole bag looks dirty, or if you haven’t cleaned it in a while, hand washing is recommended as it’s gentle and safe.
The process isn’t difficult:
Not all polyester bags can be machine washed. If you’re looking for convenience, check the care label first!
Proceed with the following steps only after confirming it’s machine washable:
Friendly reminder:
If the product involves special craftsmanship (like heat-pressed seams, laminated prints, screen-printed logos, embroidery, composite materials, etc.), hand washing is preferentially recommended to avoid damage to the structure or appearance due to improper washing methods.
The drying process after cleaning directly affects the appearance, lifespan, and quality of the finished polyester bag. Whether for sample testing or pre-production quality control standards, the correct drying method is crucial.
We recommend prioritizing the natural air drying method:
The following methods are not recommended for production or use:
Some stains can indeed be quite “tricky,” but with the right method, they’re not that hard to clean. Here are some solutions for common stains; you can choose the appropriate method based on your situation:
Besides cleaning it when it’s dirty, regular maintenance is also important to make your polyester bag last longer and look newer. You can periodically empty the bag, shake out dust, or wipe the surface with a slightly damp cloth. When using the bag, avoid placing overly heavy items in it for extended periods to prevent deformation due to excessive weight. Also, be careful to avoid contact between the bag and sharp objects to prevent scratching the fabric. When not in use, it’s best to store the bag in a dry, ventilated place. You can also stuff it with fillers, like clean old clothes or white paper, to help it maintain its original shape. If your polyester bag has a waterproof coating on the surface, be mindful during cleaning to avoid frequent use of strong detergents, as this could damage the waterproof coating and affect its water-resistant properties.
When cleaning polyester bags, there are a few “don’ts” you absolutely must avoid. For example, never use chlorine-based bleach, as it will severely damage polyester fibers. Don’t use very hot water to wash your polyester bag; high temperatures are not friendly to it. As mentioned earlier, high-temperature drying or direct sun exposure is also not advisable. After washing, don’t wring the bag vigorously, as this can easily cause it to deform. When cleaning, avoid using hard brushes or rough tools like steel wool to scrub the bag’s surface, as they might scratch the fabric. Lastly, and most fundamentally, if the bag has a care label, be sure to read and follow its instructions carefully.
Cleaning your polyester bag properly will help it last longer and look pleasant. Remember to choose the right method and let it dry thoroughly after washing.
We at Yanxin Bags offer a variety of polyester bags, such as polyester shopping bags, polyester promotional bags, polyester brand bags, and various polyester eco-friendly bags. Through our customization service, you can choose materials, colors, sizes, and printing to create polyester bags that perfectly match your brand image. If you are looking for a polyester bag manufacturer or want to customize polyester bags, contact Yanxin Bags today! We can provide you with free design consultation and samples—let’s create impressive personalized polyester bags together!
You can learn more detailed information about what polyester is on Wikipedia.
You can learn more detailed information about silk screen printing, heat transfer printing, and digital printing on Wikipedia.
You can learn more detailed information about polyester materials, including recycled polyester (rPET), sustainability practices, and environmental impact on the Textile Exchange website
Q1: Can I machine wash a polyester bag with screen printing or lamination?
Answer: No, it’s not recommended to machine wash polyester bags with screen printing, heat-pressed seams, or laminated surfaces, as it may damage the structure or the printed area. Hand washing is a safer method to maintain the quality of your custom printed polyester bag.
Q2: What is the best way to remove oil stains from a polyester shopping bag?
Answer: Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch to absorb the oil, let it sit for a few hours, then brush it off and apply a small amount of dish soap. Gently rub and rinse. Always test on an inconspicuous area first.
Q3: How should I air dry a polyester tote bag after washing?
Answer: Use a dry towel to absorb excess water, reshape the bag by stuffing it with paper or soft cloth, and hang it in a cool, shaded area. Avoid direct sunlight and never use a tumble dryer to dry polyester tote bags.
Q4: What temperature is safe for washing polyester promotional bags?
Answer: Polyester promotional bags should be washed in cold or lukewarm water, typically under 30–40°C (86–104°F), to prevent shrinkage, color fading, or damage to printed logos and coatings.
Q5: Is it safe to use bleach when cleaning custom polyester drawstring bags?
Answer: No, chlorine-based bleach can weaken polyester fibers, cause discoloration, and damage custom designs. Use mild, bleach-free detergents specifically designed for synthetic fabrics.
Q6: How do I store polyester eco-friendly bags to maintain shape and cleanliness?
Answer: Store polyester bags in a dry, well-ventilated place. You can insert filler material, like clean white paper, to help maintain shape. Avoid exposure to direct heat or sunlight.
Q7: Can I iron a polyester travel bag to remove wrinkles?
Answer: It’s not recommended. Polyester is heat-sensitive. If necessary, use a very low-temperature setting and place a cloth over the bag, or simply let it air dry fully, which naturally reduces wrinkles.
Q8: What are the common stain removers used for polyester backpacks?
Answer: For polyester backpacks, you can use diluted white vinegar for mildew, alcohol for ink, and baking soda or dish soap for oil. Always perform a patch test before full application.
Q9: How long does it take for a polyester bag to air dry after hand washing?
Answer: Depending on room ventilation and bag thickness, a polyester bag typically takes 6 to 12 hours to fully air dry. Ensure it’s completely dry before storing to prevent odor or mildew.
Q10: Are polyester bags considered eco-friendly or sustainable?
Answer: While traditional polyester is synthetic, polyester bags can be reused hundreds of times, reducing single-use plastic consumption. Bags made from RPET (recycled polyester) are an even more sustainable option.
Your Shopping Bag Expert
Order or no-order we are Always here to help you!
We will contact you within 1 working day, please pay attention to the email with the suffix “@yanxinbag.com”.
Order or no-order we are Always here to help you!
We will contact you within 1 working day, please pay attention to the email with the suffix “@yanxinbag.com”.
