Hey folks, I just got a Ralph Lauren polo tee as a gift, but I'm worried I might have messed it up. Initially, it was super soft and comfy, but after just two washes, it feels hard and kind of rough, almost sandy. I did the usual easy care wash with a bit of fabric softener like I do for my other clothes. I read that I might have overused or chosen the wrong detergent. Does anyone have tips on how to get it back to its original softness and also how to prevent this with my other clothes in the future? Thanks a ton!
4 Answers
Are you line drying or using the dryer? Line drying can sometimes lead to a stiffer feel if it dries too hard. I'd recommend airing it out with less detergent and maybe skipping fabric softener altogether; it might feel better after a few washes.
To start, make sure to check the care label on your polo shirt. Washing in cooler water and using less detergent can really help—too much detergent can leave residue that makes clothes feel stiff. Additionally, try washing it again with no detergent and adding a bit of fabric softener or toss it in the dryer with a damp towel and some dryer balls. That should help restore its softness!
It's possible that detergent buildup is the culprit here. If you can, give it a wash without detergent and see if that helps. Or if it's safe for the dryer, a quick tumble can sometimes revive fabric. Just remember to avoid higher heat settings!
Just a heads up, often it's simply the material that affects durability and softness. Make sure you're following the washing instructions closely. I've had polos that felt better with lower heat settings and avoiding dryer sheets altogether. Cold water generally does the trick for me!