5 Easy Hacks To Clean Your Shirt Collar In The Washing Machine

Shirt collars often trap sweat, oil, and dirt, making them look dull and stained over time. While washing your shirts regularly helps, those tough collar stains don’t always budge with a normal cycle. But the good news is, there are a few easy hacks that can help you clean your shirt collar thoroughly using just your washing machine and a few household items. Let’s take a look!

5 Easy Hacks To Clean Your Shirt Collar

1. Pre-Treat With Liquid Detergent

Before tossing your shirt into the machine, apply a small amount of liquid detergent directly onto the stained collar. Gently rub it in with your fingers or a soft brush to break down body oils and grime. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes before starting the wash cycle. This simple step can make a big difference.

2. Use Baking Soda Paste For Stubborn Stains

If you’re dealing with old or stubborn collar stains, make a paste with baking soda and water. Apply this thick paste to the collar, scrub gently using an old toothbrush, and allow it to sit for 30 minutes. Then, wash as usual in the machine. Baking soda helps lift stains and neutralise odours too.

3. Add White Vinegar To The Rinse Cycle

White vinegar acts as a natural fabric softener and stain remover. Add half a cup to your washing machine's rinse compartment. It not only brightens the fabric but also helps in dissolving any leftover grime from the collar area. Don’t worry, it won’t leave behind any smell.

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4. Try A Collar Scrub With Shampoo

Believe it or not, your regular hair shampoo works well on collar grease. Just squeeze a bit onto the collar, rub it in gently, and let it sit for a few minutes before washing the shirt in your machine. This hack is especially great for oily stains and works like a charm on dress shirts.

5. Use An Old Toothbrush For Spot Cleaning

For a little extra effort, use an old soft-bristled toothbrush to scrub detergent or paste into the collar. This gives you more control and ensures that cleaning agents penetrate deep into the fabric before the wash. Follow with your regular washing cycle.

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Cleaning your shirt collars doesn’t have to be a chore. With these easy hacks, you can tackle even the most stubborn stains without needing to hand-wash or send your shirts to the dry cleaner. A little pre-treatment before your regular machine wash goes a long way. So the next time you notice a grimy ring around your collar, just pick one of these methods and let your washing machine do the rest.

Image Credits: Freepik

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