How to Care for Your Polo Shirt to Keep It Looking New

By Asana Hawaii | Check out our exclusive deals on Island | Published: 2026-10-19

Category: Tips & Care

Learn how to wash, dry, and store your polo shirt so it stays crisp and colorful. Simple steps to avoid shrinkage, fading, and collar curling.

Quick answer

Wash your polo shirt in cold water on a gentle cycle, then air dry or tumble dry low to prevent shrinkage and keep the fabric and collar in shape.

Why polo shirts need special care

Polo shirts blend comfort and style, but their knit fabric and structured collar can lose shape if handled like a basic T-shirt. The cotton-polyester pique used in many polos—like the Asana Hawaii Men's Premium Polo—is durable but prone to pilling, shrinkage, and collar curl when exposed to high heat or harsh detergents. A little extra attention during washing and drying keeps that crisp, just-bought look for dozens of wears.

Common mistakes that shorten a polo's life

Hot water is the fastest way to shrink a polo and fade its color. High heat in the dryer can warp the collar and cause the fabric to pill. Using bleach or fabric softener on cotton-polyester blends can break down fibers and leave residue that attracts dirt. And hanging a wet polo by the shoulders often stretches the neckline out of shape.

How to care for your polo shirt in 5 steps

1. Pre-treat stains immediately: Blot fresh stains with a clean cloth and apply a small amount of mild detergent directly to the spot. Gently rub the fabric together and let it sit for 5 minutes before washing. Avoid rubbing vigorously—it can damage the pique weave. For oil-based stains, use a drop of dish soap before the detergent.
2. Turn the polo inside out: Button all buttons and turn the shirt inside out. This protects the embroidered logo and the outer fabric from friction during the wash cycle. It also reduces pilling on the front panels.
3. Wash in cold water on gentle cycle: Set your machine to cold water (below 86°F / 30°C) and choose the gentle or delicate cycle. Use a mild liquid detergent—powders can leave residue on dark colors. Never use bleach or fabric softener. Wash with like colors only; dark polos can bleed onto lighter items in the first few washes.
4. Reshape and air dry (or tumble dry low): Remove the polo from the washer promptly. Lay it flat on a drying rack or clean towel and reshape the collar, cuffs, and hem. If using a dryer, set it to low heat and remove the shirt while it's still slightly damp to avoid shrinking. Never wring or twist the fabric. Hanging a wet polo by the shoulders can stretch the neckline—fold it over the line or use a clip hanger.
5. Store folded or on a padded hanger: Fold the polo and place it in a drawer, or hang it on a wide, padded hanger to preserve the shoulder shape. Avoid thin wire hangers that can poke through the fabric. If you hang it, button the top button to keep the collar lying flat. For long-term storage, use a breathable garment bag to protect against dust and moths.

Product spotlight

Asana Hawaii Men's Premium Polo: 65% polyester, 35% cotton pique with flat knit collar and cuffs. The polyester content resists shrinking and wrinkles, but the cotton still needs cool water and gentle drying to keep the collar from curling.
Asana Hawaii Men's Premium Polo