If you’ve ever noticed dark, shiny, or discolored patches after using a heat press, you’ve seen scorch marks — areas where the fabric was exposed to too much heat, pressure, or time.
This guide explains exactly how to remove or reduce heat press scorch marks on cotton, polyester, and blended fabrics, and how to prevent them from happening again in the future.
Why Scorch Marks Happen (and Why They Look Different)A scorch mark happens when heat and pressure change the structure of the fabric fibers. On cotton, the fibers oxidize and turn brown or yellow. On polyester, the synthetic threads soften or melt slightly, leaving a smooth, reflective surface that looks shiny in the light.
| ⚠️ Before you start: Always test any cleaning method on a hidden or spare piece of fabric. Different materials and dyes react differently to heat and chemicals, and spot-testing can prevent further damage. |
Quick Answer
> For light scorch marks on cotton, blot with 3% hydrogen peroxide, then steam through a damp white cloth.
Why it works: Hydrogen peroxide gently oxidizes yellowed cotton fibers.
Stop if: The treated area gets lighter than surrounding fabric or feels brittle.
> For polyester, avoid re-heating; use a 1:1 vinegar-water blot to reduce shine, then air-dry.
Why it works: Vinegar can reduce the reflective sheen on heat-softened polyester without additional heat.
Stop if: The area looks glossier or the dye starts to lift onto the cloth.
> Never use chlorine bleach: except on 100% white cotton. Always spot-test first.