How to Wash and Store Polo Shirts So They Keep Their Shape

In short: read the care label first and follow it. Beyond that, most of what keeps a polo looking new comes down to four habits: wash it with similar colours, do not overheat it, reshape the collar while it is damp, and store it so the collar is not crushed.

Start with the care label

Every garment has a sewn-in label that states how it should be washed, dried and ironed. It is written for that exact fabric, so it always overrides general advice — including everything on this page. If the symbols are unfamiliar, our guide to reading care labels explains each one.

We have not yet published fabric and care details for the Mountain Explora logo polo on this website. Until we do, please follow the label on your garment, or ask us.

Before washing

• Sort by colour. Wash strong colours, such as red, with similar shades, and pale colours, such as beige, with other pale items.
• Unfasten the buttons. Washing a polo buttoned up puts strain on the buttonholes and the placket.
• Turn it inside out. This reduces rubbing on the outer surface and on any embroidery.
• Treat marks early. Collars and underarms collect the most wear. Dealing with a mark before it is washed and dried in gives you the best chance of removing it — check the label before using any stain remover or bleach.

Washing

• Use the temperature and programme on the label, not a hotter one. Heat is the most common cause of shrinking and fading.
• Do not overload the machine. Clothes that cannot move freely crease more and come out less clean.
• Use a normal amount of detergent. More is not better; residue can leave fabric feeling stiff.

Drying

• Reshape while damp. Smooth the collar and placket flat with your hands and gently pull the hem and sleeves straight. This single step prevents most collar curl.
• Check the label before tumble drying. If it is allowed, use the heat setting shown. If the label shows a crossed-out square with a circle, air dry instead.
• Air dry with care. Knitted garments can stretch if they hang by the shoulders while heavy with water. Laying a polo flat, or folding it over a rail at the middle, avoids marks and stretching.
• Keep strong colours out of harsh, direct sun for long periods, which can fade them.

How to stop a polo collar curling

A collar that curls up at the points is the most common complaint about polos. Three things help:

1. Flatten it while damp and let it dry in that shape.
2. Press it, if the label allows ironing. Open the collar flat, press the underside first, then fold it back along its natural line. Use the heat setting on the label.
3. Store it flat or folded with the collar supported — not crumpled under other clothes.

Ironing

If the label allows it, iron on the setting shown, ideally with the polo inside out. Iron around embroidery rather than straight over it, or press it from the reverse side. If the label shows a crossed-out iron, do not iron.

Storing

• Folding is the safer choice for knitted polos: it avoids hanger marks at the shoulders. Fold the sleeves back, then fold the body once, leaving the collar on top.
• Hanging is fine for short periods on a wide, shaped hanger that supports the shoulders.
• Make sure it is completely dry before it goes into a drawer or wardrobe.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I wash a polo shirt?

Generally after each full day of wear, as a polo is worn next to the skin. A polo worn briefly over a T-shirt may not need washing every time.

Why do polo shirts shrink?

Usually because of heat — water or a dryer hotter than the label recommends. Following the label's temperature is the best prevention.

Why does my polo collar curl?

Collars tend to curl when they dry out of shape or are stored crushed. Flattening the collar while damp and pressing it, if the label allows, usually solves it.

Should I hang or fold polo shirts?

Folding is safer for knitted polos. If you hang them, use a wide hanger.

Can I iron over the embroidered logo?

It is better not to iron directly over embroidery. Iron around it or from the reverse side, and only if the care label allows ironing at all.

A polo that fits well is also easier to keep in shape — see how a polo shirt should fit, or view the Mountain Explora logo polo.