The useful life of a T-shirt is probably not as long as you think it is ― or wish it were. Once a tee has crossed one, maybe two, summers, it's ready for under-sweater-only status. However, a few simple tricks will help you keep it as white and shapely as possible.
- Most T-shirt manufacturers recommend washing in cold water. However, according to Jane Rising, a manager at the International Fabricare Institute, laundry detergents work best when the water temperature is high. So if you dare to question the label: Wash it with warm water; hot water can cause shrinkage. Use the permanent-press cycle to dry.
- Use a fabric softener to prevent wrinkles, and remove clothes as soon as the dryer shuts off.
- To keep whites whiter, do not overload the washing machine. Only put white ― prints or pastels.
- To restore original whiteness, try a blue agent that neutralizes yellowing.