Polyester Kimonos
In recent years, to meet the demand for enjoying kimonos more casually, kimonos made of synthetic fibers, especially polyester, have become widely popular.
Polyester is lightweight, durable, resistant to water and sweat, and easy to wash at home, making it an attractive choice.
It can be worn without worry on rainy days or while traveling, making it increasingly popular as an introductory or everyday garment.
However, polyester also has drawbacks such as being prone to static electricity and vulnerable to heat. Incorrect care or handling can damage its texture and shape.
Here, we will explain tips for wearing polyester kimonos comfortably for a long time, divided into "Post-wear care," "Washing," "Drying and ironing," "Storage methods," and "Daily precautions."
Post-wear Care
Polyester kimonos have low hygroscopicity, meaning they do not easily absorb sweat or moisture.
Therefore, it is often thought that "leaving them as is is fine," but post-wear care is essential to maintain cleanliness.
Air it out
After wearing, first hang the kimono on a kimono hanger and air it out.
While not as sensitive as silk or cotton, tobacco or food odors tend to linger in the fibers, so airing it out in the shade for 1-2 hours to remove odors will make it more comfortable.
Dust it off
Since it is a material prone to static electricity, it tends to attract dust.
Lightly brushing it off with a soft brush will help maintain its beauty for longer.
Check for wrinkles
Polyester is wrinkle-resistant, but creases may remain around the obi or cuffs.
If noticeable, address them with a low-temperature iron as described later.
Washing Method
The greatest advantage of polyester is that it can be easily washed at home.
Machine washable
Polyester kimonos are generally machine washable.
Place them in a laundry net, select a delicate cycle or "fashionable clothes course," and wash separately from other garments.
Accessories such as obis and nagajuban (under-kimonos) can also be washed together if they are made of polyester.
Choosing detergent
Neutral detergent is recommended.
Avoid detergents containing bleach or fluorescent agents, as they can cause color fading or discoloration.
Avoid hot water
Since it is vulnerable to high temperatures, wash with water or lukewarm water below 30°C.
Washing with hot water can cause glossiness or shrinkage.
Stain treatment
If stained with oil or cosmetics, dilute a neutral detergent and dab the affected area before washing to make it easier to remove.
Drying and Ironing
The beauty of the finish depends on how it is handled after washing.
Shade drying
Spin-dry briefly and immediately hang it on a kimono hanger to dry.
Polyester dries quickly, so it will be sufficiently dry in half a day.
Direct sunlight can harden the fabric, so shade drying is essential.
Ironing
In most cases, wrinkles will not remain after washing.
If they do, iron at a "low temperature (110-120°C)" with a pressing cloth.
Be careful not to apply too much steam, as it can cause the fabric to become shiny or shrink.
Lightly steaming while it's still on the hanger is also an effective method.
Storage Method
Polyester kimonos also have the advantage of being resistant to insects and mold.
However, if stored carelessly, it can lead to odor transfer or loss of shape.
Wrap in a "tatoushi"
Store by wrapping it in a tatoushi (kimono paper wrapper).
Although polyester is resistant to moisture, a tatoushi helps prevent loss of shape and protects against dust.
Storage location
A paulownia chest is not necessary.
A closet or storage case is fine, but it's safe to use a dehumidifier to ensure ventilation.
Long-term storage precautions
While there is less concern about insect damage, if not taken out for a long time, creases can become set.
Taking it out and hanging it each season can help maintain its beautiful condition.
Daily Precautions
Polyester kimonos are durable and easy to handle, but being mindful of daily care will help them last longer.
・Static electricity prevention: In winter, static electricity can easily occur due to friction with the obi and nagajuban, so use an anti-static spray.
・Beware of heat: The fibers can deform from the heat of an iron or stove, so do not bring them too close.
・Rainy days: Although resistant to rain, mud splatters can cause stains, so wash promptly.
Travel and carrying: Being lightweight and wrinkle-resistant, it's ideal for travel kimonos.
When carrying, folding it and placing it in a garment bag is sufficient.
The Appeal of Polyester Kimonos and the Significance of Care
The greatest appeal of polyester kimonos is their "casualness."
Their convenience—washable at home, wrinkle-resistant, and safe for rainy days—suits modern lifestyles.
On the other hand, they are vulnerable to heat and static electricity, so a little care and ingenuity in handling are required.
Nevertheless, caring for them is significantly easier than for silk or linen, making them an ideal material for those starting to enjoy traditional Japanese wear in their daily lives.
Summary
Polyester kimonos are durable, easy to wash, and a material that suits modern life.
・After wearing, air them out to remove odors and dust.
・For washing, use a net, delicate cycle, and water below 30°C.
・When drying, air dry in the shade; for ironing, use low heat and a pressing cloth is essential.
・For storage, wrapping in a tatoushi and using a dehumidifier is sufficient.
By following these steps, you can maintain a clean and beautiful condition at all times.
Polyester kimonos are what bring "kimonos from something special to everyday wear."
Polyester kimonos are ideal for everyday wear.
However, if you are invited to a slightly formal occasion, polyester kimonos can look too casual in texture, making you hesitate a bit.
In such a case, if there was an elegant kimono with a good texture that was almost as easy to care for as a polyester kimono, which would you choose?
Here, we introduce a website that we hope you will find useful for your kimono life.
Please take a look.
