Can 100% polyester suits be machine washed?

Yes, 100% polyester suits can be machine washed, but whether you should is a slightly different question.

Polyester is a synthetic fabric known for its durability, wrinkle resistance and colour retention, which makes it far more forgiving than wool or linen. In theory, a polyester suit can survive a gentle machine wash. However, suits aren’t just about fabric - they’re about structure. The lining, interfacing, shoulder padding and stitching can all suffer in a washing machine, even on a delicate cycle.

If you do choose to machine wash, turn the suit inside out, use cold water, a mild detergent and select a gentle or hand-wash programme. Avoid spinning hard and never tumble dry - air drying on a hanger is essential to maintain shape. Even then, there’s a risk of misshaping, bubbling, or creasing that’s hard to fix.

For busy professionals who want convenience without the gamble, an online laundry service like Hello Laundry offers a safer alternative. With free pickup and delivery, plus 24-hour and same-day laundry cleaning service, it removes the stress of suit care while preserving the garment’s fit and finish.