wash & wear
Good investments need proper attention. (And we're not talking about your financial portfolio.) Learn to treat & care for your arsenal of dress shirts and you'll be rewarded handsomely.
pro clean experience
Having your shirts washed and pressed at the cleaners is convenient and relatively inexpensive. Just don't confuse it with dry cleaning. This process involves washing, spin-drying to remove excess water, and pressing the shirt while damp to remove wrinkles. The only downfall? Buttons can chip or shatter and fabric can overstretch in an industrial press.
the dry clean option
To dry clean or not to dry clean, that's the question. While dry cleaning minimizes shrinkage, it can be pricey. Chemical solvents can wear down fibers causing premature fraying and a shorter life span.
spin cycle
Machine washing is highly recommended, especially if you like the element of control. Unbutton all the buttons on your shirt and pre-treat any stains. Set your washer to the delicate cycle using cold water and hang to air dry.
fresh pressed
Before your dress shirt dries completely, it's time to remove any wrinkles. This only requires an iron turned to the highest setting, a spray bottle of water, and the square end of an ironing board. Don't be afraid to press firmly and pull your shirt taut. Spritz water on the areas you want to smooth over, hang up and fasten the top button. Store as per usual with enough space in between garments.
