How To Fix a Stretched Collar: Simple Solutions

At Steel City, we know that nothing beats the comfort and style of your favorite tee. However, even the best tees, including our beloved Steel City designs, can sometimes fall victim to the dreaded stretched collar. This common issue can make an otherwise perfect shirt look a bit sloppy. 

Don't worry, though – we've got you covered. In this article, we'll share simple, easy-to-follow solutions to help you fix a stretched collar and keep your tees looking sharp and feeling comfy.

Why Do Collars Stretch?

Collars stretch for a variety of reasons… but frequent wear is a big one. The more you love and wear your tee, the more stress the collar experiences. Improper washing techniques, such as hot water or rough cycles, can also contribute to stretching. 

Hanging your shirts, especially on thin or wire hangers, can lead to misshapen collars over time, too, and the type of fabric and the weight of the shirt can influence how easily the collar stretches.

We've all been there, reaching for that super soft tee every day only to find the collar looking a bit worn out eventually. It's a bummer, but understanding why it happens is the first step toward fixing it. By addressing the root causes and making a few adjustments to how you care for your tees, you can prevent future stretching and keep your shirts looking fresh and new. 

Paying attention to the details in your laundry routine and storage habits can make a significant difference in maintaining the shape and longevity of your favorite tees.

How To Fix a Stretched Collar

If you’re noticing a stretched collar on your favorite shirt, there are a few different methods you can use to try to fix it. 

Method 1: The Hot Water Shrink

Fill a basin with hot water. Submerge the collar in the hot water for 5-10 minutes, then gently wring out excess water. Let it air dry flat or use a hair dryer on a low setting.

Hot water can help shrink the fibers back into place. Just make sure to handle the shirt gently to avoid any additional stretching.

Method 2: Using a Hair Dryer

Lightly dampen the collar with water using the spray bottle, then use thae hair dryer on medium heat, focusing on the collar. Gently stretch and mold the collar back into shape as it dries.

The hair dryer method is perfect for quick fixes, but be careful not to use too high of a heat setting, which can damage the fabric.

Method 3: The Steam Method

Hang the shirt and expose the collar to steam for a few minutes using a handheld steamer. Use your hands to reshape the collar while it's warm and pliable, then allow it to cool and set in the new shape.

Steaming helps relax the fibers, making it easier to mold the collar back into shape. Just make sure the steam is not too hot to avoid burns or damage to the fabric.

Method 4: Sewing and Elastic Bands

Measure and cut an elastic band to fit snugly around the collar. Sew the elastic band into the inside of the collar, ensuring it's evenly distributed. Test the fit and make adjustments if necessary.

This method requires a bit more effort, but can provide a long-term solution to prevent future stretching. Make sure the elastic band is comfortable and not too tight.

What Are Some Preventative Measures for Stretched Collars?

Fixing a stretched collar is great, but preventing it from happening in the first place is even better. Here are some tips to keep your Steel City tees looking fresh:

Proper Washing Techniques

Use cold water and gentle cycles when washing your tees, as hot water and rough cycles can cause fibers to break down and stretch. It’s also helpful to turn your shirts inside out before washing to minimize friction and wear on the collar.

Correct Drying Methods

Lay your tees flat to dry instead of hanging them — hanging can stretch the fabric, especially when wet. If you must use a dryer, choose a low heat setting. High heat can damage the fabric and contribute to stretching.

What Are Some T-Shirt Storage Tips?

Fold your tees instead of hanging them to help maintain the collar's shape. When you fold your shirts, it reduces the stress on the collar that hanging can cause, especially over extended periods. If hanging is necessary, use padded hangers to provide better support and reduce stress on the collar. Padded hangers distribute the weight more evenly and prevent the fabric from stretching out.

Consider storing your folded tees in a drawer or on a shelf where they won’t get crushed or misshapen. Keeping them in a cool, dry place can also prevent any potential damage from humidity. 

By incorporating these simple practices into your routine, you can extend the life of your favorite Steel City tees and keep them looking as good as new, ready for you to grab and go whenever you want to rock that perfect look.

How To Keep Your Tees in Good Shape

Maintaining the quality of your favorite tees is important, and taking care of stretched collars is a key part of that. Understanding why collars stretch and following these simple solutions will keep your shirts looking sharp and feeling comfortable. 

Whether you opt for the hot water shrink, the hair dryer method, the steam technique, or sewing in an elastic band, there’s a solution that’s right for you.

Preventing collar stretching through proper washing, drying, and storage techniques is just as important as fixing it. With these tips, your Steel City tees will continue to be the go-to choice in your wardrobe.

Sport Steel City 

Stretched collars can be frustrating, but there are several different methods you can use to try to get your collar looking great again.

Love your Steel City tees? Keep them in top shape with our easy collar-fixing tips. For more great advice and to check out our latest collections, visit Steel City. 

Sources:

How to Fix Stretched Neckline on T-Shirt: A Quick and Easy Method | by Giftshopscustom | Medium

Ready to trash a stretched-out T-shirt? This viral hack could save it: 'Works every time'

10 Ways You're Storing Your Clothes All Wrong | Family Handyman

How to Prevent Clothes From Shrinking