How to Remove Nail Polish from Faux Suede (Polyester)

Table of Contents:

You Will Need
Steps to Remove the Nail Polish
Additional Tips and Advice

Irene asked: How do I get clear nail polish out of a polyester (fake suede type) jumper? While reaching for my lipstick, I knocked over a bottle of clear nail polish. It broke and ran down the front of my cranberry colored, fake suede jumper. I blotted it, but didn’t have time or know what else to do. Help! It’s my favorite jumper. The stain is dark and black. It has zig-zag streaks right down the front.

Nail polish stains are a real nuisance to remove. Once they dry, the paint seems to adhere to each and every fiber of the clothing with no intention of coming loose. This is no new problem, and many before you have found successful ways to remove the nasty stains. Here is a tried and true removal method that will get rid of the color with a few simple steps.

You Will Need:

Acetone (Nail polish remover)
Dry cleaning fluid
Absorbent towels

Steps to Remove the Nail Polish:

All fabrics react differently to acetone and/or nail polish remover. Start by testing a small, hidden area to ensure that there is no damage to the color and texture of the material. Pour some acetone on the fabric, rinse and allow it to dry completely. If the test spot goes well, you are safe to move onto the stained area of the garment.
Place the garment on an absorbent cloth so that the stain is face down on the cloth.
Pour some acetone through the fabric.
Press gently on the fabric so the nail polish will be absorbed into the cloth.
Avoid rubbing the area as this will damage the suede-like texture and leave a bare area.
Repeat with the acetone until the stain is removed. Change the cloth as necessary to keep the stain from reapplying to the fabric.
After the stain is removed, lay the garment over a clean, absorbent cloth and pour dry cleaning fluid through the material to remove the remaining acetone. If the garment is washable, you can also wash it in the washing machine.
Spread the clothing out flat and allow the piece to air dry completely.
Once dry, check the area for any remaining stains. Repeat as necessary until the stains are gone.

Additional Tips and Advice

Polyester is a versatile fabric that can tolerate many cleaning methods. Unlike true suede, it can withstand the chemicals without becoming damaged.
If it is easier to work from the front of the garment, especially if the stain is small, apply some acetone to a soft cloth and blot the stain until it is removed.
If the acetone affects the color of the garment, try soaking it in OxiClean.
If the acetone is too strong, or does not react well with the fabric, there are non-acetone nail polish removers available as well. They are gentler than acetone based removers and are still effective in removing the polish.
As a last resort, gasoline will remove the polish, but is strong and may damage the clothing. Use it with caution.