subject: Step-by-step Guide On How To Wash Your Own Shirt [print this page] We all want an easy way out when travelling and using the services of a dry cleaner may seem an attractive option (and it sure is), after all you'll just drop it off and collect it crisp and clean. Just remember that washing your own shirt does more than just saving money; it prolongs the life of your shirt. Your ordinary cotton shirt isn't designed to be laundered using harsh chemicals. That said, dropping your shirt in your washing machine or taking it down the hall to the coin machine requires a little effort and practice. As a matter of fact, knowing how to wash your own shirt is more a matter of soap, water temp and sufficient soaking.
Your costly cotton shirts will last two times longer if you find time to wash them by hand. There is no arguing that this requires a little effort on your side, you'll soon discover with time that the process of taking care of your wardrobe becomes shortened and is only necessary once a week or less. That said, below are some convenient options for doing the job yourself and learning how to launder your own shirts.
The basics
The first step is reading the label stitched inside your shirt, the labels are a guide by the garment manufacturer and designers showing you how the particular shirt is supposed to be washed. Note: some shirts are hand-wash and other strictly machine wash. If you don't understand what the symbols say then check them out in the internet or any reference material you can find. Once you're clear on what the symbol says remove the collar stays and button up a few chest buttons and the collar to prevent the shirt from twisting and becoming entwined in the washing machine agitator because this could stress the fabric.
Launder your shirts at home
Be informed that the conventional washing machine is an appliance of convenience and is not designed to preserve your shirts. You should carefully read the operation manual and if possible do your shirts with the minimum hand washable setting. Doing this will slow the revolutions and agitator actions. Use warm and cold water to maintain the colors of your shirts. White shirts require bleach and hot water occasionally to prevent stain build-up. It's also advisable to use high-efficient hypoallergenic detergent free from dyes and scents. Additives in detergent are very corrosive to the fabric. Use color safe bleach.
Washing your own shirts while travelling
When travelling do not be afraid from packing some little detergent, detergent manufacturers are aware of these and many now pack a single load size detergent for travelers which meets new airline rules for soaps and toiletries.
First, brush off as much dirt and grime from the shirt as you can. Second, soak the shirt in lukewarm water. Remove the shirt from the water and mix in a few shakes of the detergent, but not the whole packet. Then, soak the shirt in the mix. Carefully remove the shirt and rinse it under the shower head, or drain the sink or tub and soak it again in cold, clean water. Let the shirt dry on a hanger from the shower rod or over a towel in the closet.
