Caring For Your Button-Down Shirts

Whether you're wearing them to the office or a casual dinner date, button-down shirts are a closet staple. They're the most versatile article of clothing in your wardrobe because they can be dressed up and dressed down. Caring for your button-down shirts takes some practice, but once you get the method down, you'll have a closet full of clean, crisp button-down shirts to wear.

Washing And Drying

You must use the right detergent and wash method to keep your button-down shirts looking their absolute best.

1. Undo all buttons, including around the cuffs, before placing in the washing machine.

2. Pre-treat any stubborn stains with a stain remover for at least 20 minutes. Some stains may require the stain remover to sit overnight.

3. Use cold water on the gentle cycle to wash your button-down shirts. A bleach-free detergent is best for button-down shirts.

4. It's not recommended to put button-down shirts in the dryer because they lose their shape. Instead, shake the shirts out when you pull them from the washer and smooth out any wrinkles, then place on a wooden or plastic hanger to dry.

Ironing

A crisp, ironed button-down shirt looks professional and helps you feel your best at work and formal events. Use this method when ironing button-down shirts.

1. Place the shirt flat on an ironing board with the outside of the shirt facing up.

2. Spray starch on the shirt if you prefer a really crisp shirt.

3. Start at the collar and iron down towards the bottom of the shirt, taking care to avoid melting any buttons.

4. Iron the sleeves by starting at shoulder and working your way down to the cuffs, using the sleeve's seam as a guide to create a nice pleat.

5. Finish with the cuffs by opening it up completely and ironing both sides, taking care to avoid any buttons.

Storing

Shirts that are worn frequently should be hung on a solid hanger, preferably made from wood or plastic. Wire hangers are not recommended because they can ruin the shape of the shirt.

Shirts that aren't worn as often should be stored in a breathable garment bag to avoid fading and discoloration, in addition to harmful moth larvae.

Now that you know how to properly care for your button-down shirts, take a peek at the wonderful selection we have on our website.