Sequin fabric adds incredible sparkle and glamour to any garment or item, but its delicate nature means it requires special care when cleaning. Standard washing machine cycles and harsh detergents can damage the sequins, cause them to fall off, or distort the fabric. To keep your sequin pieces looking their best, gentle cleaning methods are key.
Understanding Sequin Fabric Composition
Before you begin cleaning, it’s helpful to understand what sequin fabric is typically made of. Sequins themselves are usually tiny discs made from plastic (PVC, PET) or sometimes metal. These are then sewn or glued onto a base fabric, which can be anything from delicate mesh or chiffon to more stable knits or woven materials like cotton or polyester. The cleaning method you choose will depend heavily on:
- The material of the sequins: Plastic sequins can melt under high heat, while some metallic ones might tarnish with certain chemicals.
- How the sequins are attached: Sewn-on sequins are generally more durable than glued-on ones, which can detach with water, heat, or cleaning solvents.
- The base fabric: Delicate base fabrics like silk or chiffon require gentler handling than a sturdy cotton blend.
- The garment’s construction: Intricate designs or heavily embellished areas will need extra care.
Always check the care label first if your item has one. Often, sequin garments will be labeled “Hand Wash” or “Dry Clean Only.”
How to Clean Sequin Fabric
Hand washing is generally the safest and most recommended method for cleaning sequin fabric at home. This gentle approach minimizes stress on the delicate sequins and the base fabric, helping to preserve your item’s sparkle and integrity.
Prepare the Fabric: Always turn the garment inside out before washing. This acts as a protective shield for the sequins, preventing snagging or excessive friction during the wash cycle. If you have a large or very delicate item, consider placing it in a spacious mesh laundry bag for an extra layer of protection.
Fill the Basin: Choose a clean basin, sink, or even a bathtub, and fill it with cool or lukewarm water. Hot water is a definite no-go, as it can easily melt, warp, or distort plastic sequins and weaken any adhesives.
Add Detergent: Dispense a small amount of mild, pH-neutral detergent (like Woolite, Eucalan, or a gentle liquid soap designed for delicates) into the water. Swish the water gently with your hand to ensure the soap dissolves completely before introducing the fabric. Harsh chemicals, bleach, or fabric softeners should be avoided as they can damage sequins, dull their shine, or degrade the base fabric.
Submerge and Swish Gently: Carefully submerge your sequin fabric into the soapy water. Avoid scrubbing, wringing, or twisting the fabric vigorously. Instead, gently swish the item through the water, allowing the soapy solution to penetrate the fabric and loosen any dirt. For targeted cleaning, gently press down on the fabric in the areas that need it. I usually let it soak for about 5-10 minutes.
Rinse Thoroughly: After soaking, drain the soapy water. Refill the basin with clean, cool water and gently swish the fabric to rinse out the detergent. Repeat this process, draining and refilling with fresh water, until the water runs completely clear and you see no more suds. Patience is key here to ensure all soap residue is removed.
Remove Excess Water: Carefully lift the sequin fabric from the water, making sure to support its weight evenly to prevent stretching. Do NOT wring or twist! Instead, lay the item flat on a clean, dry towel. Gently roll the towel and the garment together, pressing firmly to absorb as much water as possible. You might need to repeat this with several fresh, dry towels until a significant amount of moisture has been absorbed.
Air Dry: Finally, lay the sequin garment flat on a clean, dry towel or a drying rack, reshaping it to its original form. Air dry only! Never put sequin fabric in a tumble dryer. The heat and agitation from a dryer will almost certainly melt, warp, or cause the sequins to fall off, and can also damage the base fabric. Allow the item to dry completely in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or heat, which can fade colors or damage sequins. Flipping the garment periodically onto fresh, dry towels can help speed up the drying process.
Are Sequins Machine Washable?
While hand washing is generally the safest and most recommended method for cleaning sequined fabrics, some garments may have “machine washable” on their wash labels. However, we always recommend that you exercise extreme caution. If you must machine wash, turn the garment inside out first to protect the sequins. Place the garment in a sturdy mesh laundry bag to prevent snagging and trap any loose sequins.
Use your washing machine’s gentlest cycle, using only cold water and a small amount of mild liquid detergent. Disable or select the lowest spin cycle. Never tumble dry sequined fabrics; the high heat and agitation will almost certainly melt or deform the plastic sequins, causing them to fall off and potentially damaging the base fabric. Always lay flat to air dry. Even with these precautions, sequins may still fall off slightly after a period of machine washing.
Tips for Cleaning Sequin Fabric
Don’t hang heavy sequin garments to dry if they can stretch or distort when wet. Lay them flat.
Don’t use hot water.
Don’t use harsh detergents, bleach, or fabric softener.
Don’t scrub, wring, or twist vigorously.
Don’t put it in a tumble dryer.
Don’t iron directly on sequins. If pressing is needed, iron from the wrong side on a very low setting with a press cloth, avoiding steam.
Conclusion
By following these careful cleaning methods, your sequin pieces will continue to shine beautifully for years to come. Sequined jewelry will keep its brilliance for many years if you follow careful cleaning methods. Check the care label for instructions for specific fabrics, then choose a gentle cleaning method that avoids damaging the sequins or their base material. Check for loose sequins regularly and dispose of them promptly to maintain the beauty of your jewelry. With proper care, your sequined clothing or jewelry will stay bright and elegant even after repeated wear or display.
