How to Clean Dress Shirts

What You'll Need

• Soap-Man Power Wash Laundry Detergent
• Stain remover or white vinegar
• Cold or warm water
• Iron or steamer
• Hangers

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1

   Pre-treat collar and cuffs

   Apply Power Wash detergent directly to the collar ring and cuffs. These areas accumulate body oils and are the toughest to clean. Scrub with a soft brush.

2. 2

   Check for stains

   Inspect for food, ink, or sweat stains. Apply stain remover or dab with white vinegar. Let it sit for 10 minutes before washing.

3. 3

   Machine wash properly

   Unbutton all buttons (including collar stays), turn inside out, and wash on cold or warm gentle cycle. Wash whites separately from colors.

4. 4

   Dry and iron

   Remove promptly to prevent wrinkles. Hang to dry or tumble on low. Iron while slightly damp for the crispest finish.

Pro Tips

• TIPUnbutton shirts before washing -- buttons under tension in the machine can crack or pull loose from the fabric.
• TIPIron or steam shirts while slightly damp for the easiest, crispest results.
• TIPHang shirts on proper hangers immediately after drying to prevent wrinkles from setting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• XUsing hot water on dress shirts, which sets stains permanently and causes cotton to shrink.
• XOver-drying in the dryer, which bakes in wrinkles and makes ironing much harder.
• XIgnoring the collar ring stain, which builds up over time and becomes permanent if not pre-treated.

Frequently Asked Questions