Why Your Polo T-Shirts Lose Shape After Few Washes
You went out to buy a stylish men's polo t-shirt. And to your dismay, after a few washes, it starts to look faded and strangely stretched out or shrunk. While this may look like a confusing problem, the answer in this scenario seems to be the washing methods, fabric quality and even garment construction. In this instance, let’s explore the reasons behind your classic polo tshirt losing their shape and how to keep them looking brand new for the longest time possible.
1. It’s All in the Fabric
Polo t-shirts are best worn with a twill fabric collar or a ribbing. Make sure to pay attention that the ribbing is done properly to avoid it stretching during the usage or washing of the polo shirt. Your classic polo t-shirts must be made out of pique or combed cotton, which is known to be sewn without the aid of sewing machines. In addition to that, some brands use high quality cotton twill because it has stretch, hence it can be worn comfortably making it durable for extended use.
2. Ineffective Stitching
The stitching on a mens polo tshirt has an equally important place next to fabric quality as the stitching has a direct influence on the shirt's quality. Polo shirts that are low-quality are usually made using single-needle stitching which unravels all too easily. A good forming polo will have double-stitching and reinforced side seams.
3. Washing and Drying
The washing and care cycle for polo shirts is carelessly destroyed by most people. Putting shirts in a dryer on high heat, strong water, during an aggressive spin cycle all lead to irreversibly setting the collar and hems in a stretched and shrunken state.
- These are the recommended steps in caring for your polo shirt to preserve its shape:
- Set water temperature to cold and select a gentle cycle.
- Do not use bleach or fabric softener.
- When it's necessary to machine dry, set a low heat, and prefer air drying.
If a polo t-shirt is put through a harsh washing routine, even the best made polos will become misshapen.
4. Folding vs. Hanging: Storage Matters
Keeping your polo tshirts for men hangared sounds like the best way to maintain their smooth structure, but storing them this way has repercussions too. In the long run, damp shirts on hangers can stretch the fabric at the shoulders and create deformities.
This does not happen if you fold your polos and store them flat. This method has the benefit of retaining the shape of the garment and relieving excess strain on the fabric.
5. Overuse and Frequent Wear
In all likelihood, overusing your favorite classic polo tshirt for a prolonged stretch of time will reduce its durability. Factors like constant strain, perspiration, and environmental exposure do a number on the fibers, giving them stress. So, rotating your wardrobe is advisable as it gives each polo a breather and prolongs durability.
Conclusion
Polo t-shirts mark a timeless ‘must-have’ in the closet. However, without appropriate attention and care, even the best looking polo tshirts for men will hang loose, lose structure, and become unsightly rags.
So, the next time you purchase a mens polo t-shirt, don't only glance at the style. Read the label instead, check out the stitching, and consider how you are going to take care of it. Paying close attention to a few details will keep your polos in form.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) :
1. Why do my men's polo shirts lose shape when washed?
This is often the result of poor-quality materials, careless washing and drying methods, or loose stitching.
2. How should I wash a mens polo tshirt to retain its shape?
Use a gentle cycle at cold temperatures. Turn the shirt inside out, and allow it to air dry instead of placing it in the dryer. Doing so will help preserve the structure of your classic polo t shirt.
3. Should I hang or fold my polo shirts?
Fold. Hanging causes the polo shirt fabric, especially around shoulders, to stretch, and thereby warps the silhouette.
4. Are expensive polo t-shirts worth the price?
Yes, the best polo t shirts are made with decent materials, and they have high-quality stitching, which will prevent shape and color degradation in the long run.
5. How frequently should I replace my polo shirts?
With good maintenance, a mens polo tshirt would survive for at least two years. If your collar's fading out after just a few washes, then it's time to consider replacing your wardrobe.
