How to wash flannel shirts
how to wash flannel shirts
A flannel shirt is a classic choice for casual Fridays. Made from a soft cotton material, a flannel shirt will feel great against your skin and be the perfect size for most people. It is, therefore, extremely versatile. You can wear it on your day-to-day basis, on casual Fridays, or even on special occasions such as weddings or proms. The shirt will not look too flashy, so it is ideal for those seeking a subtle yet effective style option. Flannel shirts are available in a range of colours and patterns, so you will definitely find one to suit your needs.
Unfortunately, not all flannel shirts are created equal. If you decide to wash your shirt regularly, it may lose most of its functionality. This is because most regular washing machines are not suitable for delicate fabrics such as flannel. Using a commercial washing machine on a regular basis will cause the shirt to shrink.
To keep your flannel shirt in excellent condition, you must wash it carefully with the following tips.
Use The Right Water
Your washing machine needs to have at least 20 to 30 gallons of water to properly wash a flannel shirt. If it is a front-load washer, make sure that the tub is filled to the brim. If it is a top-load washer, fill up the bucket at least half way. Ensure that the water is not overly hot when you wash your clothes. The water should feel cool but not lukewarm. Using too hot water can cause your flannels to shrink and even fade. The water should not be too cold either, as this may cause your clothes to become damp and make them more likely to shrink.
Use The Right Detergents
When washing your flannel shirt, use gentle detergents without any sulfates or other irritating ingredients. Many people are allergic to detergents with certain ingredients in them, so it is best to look for alternatives. Even fabric conditioners and preservatives can be an irritant to some skin, so it is best to avoid using any ingredients that could potentially cause you discomfort.
Dry Your Shirt After Washing
After you wash your flannel shirt, make sure to dry it thoroughly. The moisture on your shirt will only make it look dull and lackluster. To do this, you must hang your shirt on a rack set on a cabinet or on a hanger in the dryer for about 10 minutes. Make sure to leave the hood of the dryer raised during this time, as this will help the shirt to breathe. It is not a bad idea to spray the shirt with a little bit of water before you put it in the dryer, as this will reduce the wrinkling.
Do Not Over Wash Your Shirt
If you are a regular clean-washer, you may be used to washing and drying your shirts often. However, this is not the best practice for maintaining a flannel shirt. You should only wash your shirt when necessary, and even then, you should use a gentle cycle and cold water. Over washing your flannel shirt can cause it to shrink and even fade.
Avoid Washing Your Shirt During The Week
It is best to wash your flannel shirt only on the weekend. During the week, you can hand wash your shirt on a regular basis or, if necessary, use a dry cleaner. However, using fabric softeners on a regular basis can cause the shirt to become more wrinkle and sag.
Exercise Regularly
Keeping your body active will help you to keep your mind sharp and your skin looking younger. Regular exercise will increase your stamina, which will ultimately enhance your quality of life. You do not have to go overboard and lose a ton of weight. Just focus on eating healthy and getting some exercise so that you have more energy on the weekends.
There are many wonderful benefits to washing your flannel shirt regularly. By taking the time to wash and dry your shirt every now and then, you will maintain a beautiful shine on your shirt and look forward to wearing it every day.