Keeping cotton shirts in shape wash after wash

A good cotton shirt should last years, not months. Almost all of the damage people blame on the fabric actually comes from how it is washed and dried.

Wash cold, wash less

Hot water breaks down cotton fibres and fades colour faster than anything else. Cold water on a gentle cycle cleans just as well for everyday wear. Turning the shirt inside out protects the surface from abrasion in the drum.

Skip the tumble dryer where you can

Heat is what causes shrinkage, particularly in the body length. Line drying inside out in shade keeps both the colour and the measurements stable. If you do use a dryer, keep it on low and take the shirt out slightly damp.

Look after the collar

On polos, the collar is the first thing to go. Hang the shirt rather than folding it over a rail, and avoid wringing the neckline when you wash it by hand. A warm iron on the reverse brings a tired collar back into line.