novel organic compositions for removing dyes from the surface of polymeric fibers are disclosed . the method for dye removal from the surface of fibers includes contacting the fibers with a non - aqueous ester stripping composition preferably containing at least one cyclic ester and optionally containing a surfactant , an alcohol , or both . the process of the present invention is especially useful for removing color from dyed polyamide fibers as part of a recycling process for such materials .