How to Get Crayon Out of Polyester

Wax and pigment — prewash treatment, face-down.

How old is the stain?

Fresh Crayon stain on Polyester

Before you startAlways test any treatment in an inconspicuous area first, and check the garment's care label before you begin.
  1. Place the stained area face-down.
  2. Treat with a commercial prewash stain remover.
  3. Rub dishwashing detergent into the stain.
  4. Launder in the warmest water the care label allows.

Don’t do this

  • If a whole dryer load of crayon melted, professional dry cleaning is recommended over home treatment.

Sources: University of Georgia Extension

Dried / set Crayon stain on Polyester

Before you startAlways test any treatment in an inconspicuous area first, and check the garment's care label before you begin.
  1. Place the stained area face-down.
  2. Treat with a commercial prewash stain remover.
  3. Rub dishwashing detergent into the stain.
  4. Launder in the warmest water the care label allows.

Don’t do this

  • If a whole dryer load of crayon melted, professional dry cleaning is recommended over home treatment.

Sources: University of Georgia Extension

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Frequently asked questions

Is a fresh Crayon stain easier to remove than a dried one?

Almost always. Treat Crayon as soon as possible — dried stains need rehydrating and longer treatment times, and some stains set permanently with heat or age.

Should I test the treatment on Polyester first?

Yes. Always test any treatment in an inconspicuous area of the Polyester first, and check the care label before you begin.

Safety rules for every treatment
  • Test every treatment in an inconspicuous area first — some treatments can fade dyes or damage finishes.
  • Blot a wet stain; never rub it. Rubbing pushes the stain deeper into fibers.
  • Check the garment's care label and follow it — skip any step the label prohibits.
  • Never put the item in the dryer until the stain is completely gone; heat sets most stains.
  • Never mix ammonia with chlorine bleach — the fumes are toxic and dangerous.
  • Never use chlorine bleach on rust — it can intensify the stain.
  • Rubbing alcohol is flammable and can fade some dyes; spot-test first and ventilate the area.
  • Acetone dissolves acetate, triacetate, and modacrylic fabrics — check the fabric label first.
  • Use cold water first on blood and other protein stains; hot water sets them.
  • When in doubt — a valuable, vintage, or delicate item — take it to a professional cleaner instead.

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