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Neck Tie Washing Instructions
June 20, 2024
-
By
Sophia Grant
Need to clean your tie but afraid of ruining it? Wondering whether you should use cool or warm water? If so, you’ve come to the right place.
From hand-washing ties to using the washing machine, we’ll be covering everything without the fluff below
Determining Your Tie’s Fabric
The fabric it’s made of will determine how you should wash it. Given that, you want to be able to distinguish different materials including silk, wool, cotton, and synthetics.
Silk Ties
The silk tie is known for its luxurious sheen and buttery smoothness. Like many delicate fabrics, it does not do well with water, especially if heat is involved.
Wool and Cotton Ties
Wool ties are soft to the touch and incredibly insulating. However, they don’t do well with water, which is why many opt for dry cleaning.
Cotton ties, on the other hand, are lightweight, robust, and breathable.
While they’re fine with water, they are prone to wrinkles and shrinkage if exposed to high temperatures. Given that, it’s best to hand wash them.
Polyester and Other Synthetic Ties
Polyester ties, with their smooth and slick surfaces, are highly durable and resilient. Other common materials used include nylon and microfiber.
Pre-Wash Preparations
Reading the Care Label
Make a habit of checking the care label, which is typically tucked away on the narrow end, before washing your ties. It’ll tell you everything you need to know about how to wash, dry, and iron the item.
Testing for Colorfastness
Not all dyes are made equal. Some will be more prone to bleeding than others, which is why it’s so important to test for colorfastness before washing.
To do that, simply soak the tie in a sink of water and wait 15 to 20 minutes.
If the dye comes out of the fabric, there’s a high chance that the color will transfer onto your other items in the wash.
The Correct Way to Hand Wash Ties
Hand washing is the best option when it comes to keeping your ties in tip-top shape.
Ideally, you want to choose a mild detergent that’s free of harsh chemicals.
We highly recommend using ACTIVE Detergent, especially if your tie is made of polyester or microfiber materials as it’s specifically designed to clean synthetic fabrics.
Step 1: Create a Soapy Solution
Fill a sink with warm or cool water and add some ACTIVE Detergent to create a bath. Once the powder is completely dissolved, place your tie into the mixture.
Step 2: Let It Soak
Swirl the tie around a few times with your hands to ensure it’s completely saturated with the detergent solution and let it soak for 15 to 20 minutes.
Step 3: Rinse With Water
Rinse your tie afterwards with clean water. Continue to rinse the tie fabrics until the soap residue is gone and the water runs clear. To remove excess water, press the tie between towels.
Step 4: Let It Air Dry
After washing, let the tie air dry on a hanger. Do not use the dryer.
Supply:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Water
- Hanger
Never twist or wring your tie as that will permanently damage the fabric.
ACTIVE Detergent
Safely deep cleans silk, wool, cotton and polyester neck ties.
Machine Washing Ties: Yes or No?
Depending on the material, you may be able to put your tie in the washing machine. For example, it’s perfectly fine to wash linen ties, cotton ties, and polyester ties using the washer. Here’s how.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Laundry bag
- Hanger
Step 1:
Place the tie in a laundry bag and put it in the drum. Avoid putting it directly into the washer as the agitation can cause damage to the fabric.
Step 2:
Add one scoop of ACTIVE Detergent and run a gentle cycle with cold water. Do not use bleach or fabric softener.
Step 3:
Let the machine run. Once the cycle is finished, take the tie out and allow it to air dry on a hanger.
You can machine wash ties with other delicate items as long as they’re of similar colors.
Drying and Ironing Post-Wash
Ideally, you want to air dry your tie in a well-ventilated area, away from the sun. Avoid using the dryer; you don’t want to expose the item to heat as high temperatures can damage the fabric.
How to Iron Your Tie
When it comes to ironing your tie, you want to start from the bottom and work your way up with care.
Supplies:
- Iron
- Damp cloth
Step 1:
Place a damp cloth over the tie – that will protect it from the iron’s direct heat.
Step 2:
Use the steam function on your iron to gently remove wrinkles from the tie.
Step 3:
After ironing, allow the tie to cool and set before wearing or storing it.
How to Clean Stained Ties
Stains on stained ties should be dealt with as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the deeper they’ll set in, making them harder to remove.
Using Talcum Powder and Baking Soda
Talcum powder and baking soda are your best options for oil-based stains.
Supplies:
- Talcum powder
- Baking soda
- Soft brush
- Cornstarch (optional)
Step 1:
Simply sprinkle a liberal amount of baking soda or talcum powder over the stain and let it sit for a few hours – that will give the powder time to absorb the blemish.
Step 2:
Remove the powder afterwards using a soft brush. If the stain remains after treatment, reapply the powder.
You can also use cornstarch if you don’t have talcum powder or baking soda.
Spot Cleaning with Club Soda
Club Soda isn’t just for drinking, you can also use it to remove stains from your ties.
Supplies:
- Club Soda
- Cotton ball
Step 1:
Start by laying the tie flat on a clean surface.
Step 2:
Dampen a cotton ball with Club Soda and use it to gently rub the stained spot. Continue until the stain is gone.
Proper Storage and Maintenance
Storing Ties Correctly
Proper storage is crucial if you want your ties to last. For example, you can lay them flat in a drawer or fold them in half. You can also roll them loosely and place them in a box.
Tip: Do not roll them up with tie knots as that will lead to wrinkles.
Preventive Care Measures
We highly recommend using a fabric protectant on your ties. It will create an invisible barrier against spills and splatters. And remember, when removing your tie from storage, carefully reverse the knots to prevent the fabric from fraying.
How to Wash Ties – FAQs
Can I wash a tie in the washing machine?
Hand-washed ties will last a long time. Having said that, you can also wash ties in the washing machine. Just remember to use a cold, gentle wash cycle and remember – always check the care label first.
For silk and wool ties, it’s best to take them to the dry cleaner to avoid damage.
How often should you wash ties?
You should only wash your ties if they’re visibly dirty or stained. Washing them too often will cause them to wear out prematurely.
How do you clean a smelly tie?
To clean a smelly tie, apply baking soda onto the fabric and let it sit for two to three hours, before wiping the powder off with a damp cloth.
Do dry cleaners wash ties?
Yes, bringing them to the dry cleaners is a great option, especially if your tie is made of delicate or high-quality fabrics that do not respond well to water.
Can I machine wash my silk tie if I use a gentle cycle and a garment bag?
No, silk ties should never be machine-washed. Even with a gentle cycle and garment bag, it can cause damage to the delicate fibers.
Should I wash my tie with hot or cold water?
It’s best to wash your ties with cold water as you don’t want to expose them to unnecessary heat.
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Sophia Grant
Sophia Grant brings her extensive knowledge of laundry and clothing care to the masses with her intensive cleaning guides. Her thorough understanding of fabrics, detergents, and washing techniques helps readers master the art of maintaining their wardrobe. Sophia's advice ensures that anyone can achieve professional-level results at home, keeping their garments looking pristine and lasting longer.
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