How to Wash Hawaiian Shirts: A Guide for Keeping Your Aloha Attire Looking Fresh – SSLR

How to Wash Hawaiian Shirts: A Guide for Keeping Your Aloha Attire Looking Fresh

by Saida Miller on February 09, 2023

Hawaiian shirts, also known as Aloha shirts, are a staple of Hawaiian fashion and a popular choice for casual wear. Whether you are wearing a Hawaiian shirt for a luau, a day at the beach, or simply to show off your love for bright colors and eye-catching patterns, it is important to keep it looking its best. Here is a step-by-step guide for washing your Hawaiian shirt to ensure it stays bright, colorful, and fresh for years to come.

Step 1: Read the Label


Before you wash your Hawaiian shirt, be sure to check the label for any special care instructions. Many shirts are made from lightweight and delicate fabrics, such as rayon or silk, and they may require hand washing or dry cleaning. The manufacturer will always know best, so follow the label, especially if instructions such as “dry clean only” are present. If the label allows for machine washing, proceed to the next steps.

Step 2: Choose the Right Detergent


When it comes to washing Hawaiian shirts, the right detergent can make all the difference. Avoid using harsh detergents that can fade the colors or damage the fabric. Instead, opt for a mild detergent designed for delicate fabrics. You can also choose a color-safe detergent specifically formulated to protect the vibrancy of your shirt's colors. Additionally, consider using a detergent that is fragrance-free to minimize the risk of skin irritation and allergic reactions.

Step 3: Use Cold Water


Hawaiian shirts are best washed in cold water to prevent shrinkage and fading. Cold water also helps to protect the delicate fibers of the fabric, ensuring your shirt stays looking its best for longer. If your shirt is particularly dirty, you can add a small amount of stain remover to the wash cycle to help remove any tough spots or stains. When washing your shirt, be sure to fasten all buttons and zippers to prevent snagging on other items in the wash.

Step 4: Wash gently


Set your washing machine to a gentle cycle to minimize the risk of damaging the fabric. If you are hand washing, be sure to use a gentle motion and avoid scrubbing the fabric too harshly. Remember, easy does it. Be sure to avoid overloading the washing machine, as this can result in damage and cause the fabric to become stretched or misshapen.

Step 5: Hang Dry


Once the wash cycle is complete, gently remove your Hawaiian shirt from the washing machine and hang it up to air dry, allowing the fabric to naturally smooth out as it dries. This will both protect the shirt and prevent wrinkles. Avoid putting it in the dryer, as the high heat can shrink the fabric and fade the colors. The heat from a dryer can also cause the fabric of your Hawaiian shirt to become stiff and rough, and as a bonus, hang drying is even the most environmentally friendly option! If you must use a dryer, be sure to choose the low heat setting and remove the shirt as soon as it is dry to prevent any further shrinkage or fading. When hanging your shirt to dry, be sure to avoid hanging it in direct sunlight, as this can cause the colors to fade over time.

Step 6: Store Properly


Once your shirt is completely dry, make sure you store it properly by hanging it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. This will help prevent the colors from fading. If you need to pack a shirt for travel, fold it neatly and ensure it stays clean and dry, to prevent wrinkles and damage. Depending on how often you wear them, you might consider storing your Hawaiian shirts in a garment bag to protect them from dust, moisture, and other factors that can cause damage over time.

Tips and tricks


In addition to the step-by-step guide for washing your Hawaiian shirt, here are some tips and tricks to help keep your Aloha attire looking its best:

  • Avoid Ironing: As previously mentioned, hang drying will often be enough to prevent wrinkles. If you must iron your Hawaiian shirt, be sure to use a low heat setting and avoid ironing directly on the printed design, as this can cause the colors to fade or the design to become distorted. As a trick, you can iron the shirt inside out to minimize the risk of damage.
  • Spot Cleaning: If you get a stain on your Hawaiian shirt, be sure to treat it immediately to minimize the risk of setting the stain. For small stains, you can use a stain remover pen or a mixture of water and white vinegar to gently clean the area. For larger stains, it is best to bring the shirt to a professional cleaner who can provide more specialized care.
  • Protect the Print: When washing your Hawaiian shirt, be sure to protect the printed design by turning the shirt inside out. This will help to minimize the risk of fading or damage to the printed design. Additionally, consider using a color catcher to prevent dye transfer.
  • Use Color-Safe Detergents: To keep your Hawaiian shirt looking its best, be sure to use a color-safe detergent that is specifically formulated to protect the vibrancy of your shirt's colors. Additionally, avoid using fabric softeners, as they can cause the fabric to become stiff or affect the colors over time

By following this guide for washing your Hawaiian shirt, you can be sure to keep your Aloha attire looking its best for years to come. With just a little bit of care, you can ensure your favorite Hawaiian shirt never loses its vibrant colors. Whether you plan to wear it to some company tiki party and impress your coworkers, or you just want to have something casual in your wardrobe for a day at the beach, following these simple steps will help you get the most out of your Hawaiian shirts and keep them looking their best.

BACK TO TOP