How Do I Make New Cotton Hawaiian Shirts Soft? Fast Tips for Soft Feel

Have you ever bought a cotton Hawaiian shirt and found it a bit stiff? Ugh, we know the feeling! The cool, tropical prints are awesome, but the rough fabric can make it less comfy than it should be. So, how do I make new cotton Hawaiian shirts soft? This article will reveal 6 simple and effective methods to soften your shirt, making it feel amazing to wear. Keep reading to discover how!

How Do I Make New Cotton Hawaiian Shirts Soft? 

How do I soften a new Hawaiian shirt? Let’s check out 6 easy tips and tricks that will help make your shirts feel soft and comfortable.

1. Vinegar & Baking Soda Wash

Things You Need:

• Baking soda
• White vinegar
• Large bowl
• Stiff 100% cotton Hawaiian shirts (or mostly cotton blend)

Step 1: Make the Solution

First, grab a large bowl and add 1 tablespoon of baking soda. Then, slowly pour in 1 cup of white vinegar. It’s going to fizz up, so be careful! Stir it until the baking soda completely dissolves.

Step 2: Start the Washing Machine

• For top-load washers: Start the rinse cycle, then pour the baking soda and vinegar mix into the drum with the water.
• For front-load washers: Just pour the solution straight into the drum before you add your shirts.

Step 3: Add The Shirts

Don’t add any detergent or fabric softener! Just use the vinegar and baking soda solution. Toss your cotton Hawaiian shirts into the drum and let them soak up the goodness.

Step 4: Dry Your Shirts

After the wash is done, dry your shirts like you usually would – either air-dry or use the dryer. You’ll love how soft they feel!

2. Wash and Dry with Commercial Fabric Softener

Things You Need:

• New cotton Hawaiian shirts
• Commercial fabric softener
• Mild detergent
• Washing machine
• Dryer or air drying space

Step 1: Load The Washing Machine

Place the cotton Hawaiian shirts in the washing machine, ensuring not overload the drum. Overloading can prevent proper cleaning and softening. Ensure the shirts are evenly distributed to wash effectively and absorb the fabric softener.

Step 2: Add Detergent And Fabric Softener

Add the right amount of detergent for your load size. Then, pour the fabric softener into the right compartment. The fabric softener will make the cotton feel super soft and smooth – just what you want!

Step 3: Select A Gentle Wash Cycle

Choose a gentle or delicate cycle with cold or warm water. Avoid hot water because it can shrink the cotton or make it stiff. A gentle cycle helps keep your shirts in good shape while making them softer!

Step 4: Dry On Low Heat Or Air-Dry

After washing, place the clothes in the dryer on low heat. This keeps the cotton soft and protects it from being harmed. If you want, you can also air dry them by laying them flat or hanging them in a place with good air. Either way, they’ll be soft and ready to wear!

3.  Scouring Pads or Sandpaper Method

Things You Need:

• Scouring pad or sandpaper
• Mild soap
• Salt
• Washing tub or machine
• Hot dryer

Step 1: Prepare The Shirt 

Make sure the shirt is clean and dry before you begin so it can absorb the softening process more effectively.

Step 2: Gently Rub With Scouring Pad Or Sandpaper

Lightly rub the scouring pad or fine sandpaper over the fabric, focusing on the cuffs, throat, and hem areas. Avoid rubbing directly on any printed designs, as it could cause the print to fade or peel off.

Step 3: Mix Soap And Salt In The Wash Tub

Fill your washing tub or machine almost full with water, then add a small amount of mild soap and a little salt. Stir the mixture to dissolve the soap and salt, creating a softening solution for your shirt.

Step 4: Wash The Shirt

Submerge the shirt in the tub or washing machine, ensuring it’s fully soaked in the soap and salt solution. Run the shirt through a gentle wash cycle to further soften the fabric, making sure to rinse thoroughly afterward.

If you’re worried that your clothes will wrinkle after rinsing and you’ll end up with a wrinkled shirt every time you wear it, don’t worry. We’ve provided a complete guide on how to iron the shirts the right way. Read more for all the steps and tips!

Step 5: Dry In A Hot Dryer

Once the shirt is clean, place it in the dryer in a hot setting. The fabric feels softer when the heat helps to release any residual stiffness. The shirt will get softer the more times you wash and dry it.

4. Dryer Hacks

Things You Need:

• Fabric softener
• Laundry balls
• Dryer
• Nonfat dried milk or evaporated milk (optional)
• Sunlight or air-drying space

Step 1: Wash With Fabric Softener

Toss your cotton Hawaiian shirt into the washing machine and add fabric softener. Wash it like you normally would. The softener will help start the softening process while cleaning the shirt.

Step 2: Hang To Dry Outside

After washing your clothing, hang it outside in the sun or somewhere with enough airflow. Allow it to air dry until about 70% dry. This keeps the fabric supple and prevents it from becoming overheated.

Step 3: Use Laundry Balls In The Dryer

Once your shirt is almost dry, toss it in the dryer with a few laundry balls. Set the dryer to low heat. The laundry balls bounce around, helping to fluff up the fabric and make it even softer while it finishes drying!

Step 4: Dry Completely In The Dryer

Let the shirt dry completely in the dryer on low heat. This will further soften the fabric while avoiding shrinking or damaging the cotton. The dryer helps speed up the process while keeping the fabric comfortable.

Step 5: Optional Milk Method For Extra Softness

If you are allergic to soap and want your clothes to be especially soft, use a cup of nonfat dry milk or evaporated milk for the detergent. Run a warm or cold wash, and your shirt will feel extra silky once it’s dried!

5. Salt 

Things You Need:

• Large pot with lid
• One cup of salt
• Wooden spoon or utensil
• Water
• Stovetop or range
• Strainer or colander

Step 1: Fill the pot with water

Start by filling a pot with enough water to cover your Hawaiian shirt, but leave a little room for it to move around. Add one cup of salt to the water and stir it until it dissolves

Step 2: Boil the Salt Water

Put the pot on the stove and bring it to a boil. Boiling the water helps the salt dissolve fully, and this makes it easier for the shirt to soak up the salt, which softens the fabric!

Step 3: Wet the Hawaiian shirt

Before putting your shirt in the pot, run it under the tap and get it nice and wet. If it’s dry, it will just float on top of the water and won’t absorb the salt properly. So, make sure it’s damp!

Step 4: Soak The Hawaiian Shirt In The Pot

Once the water is boiling, turn the heat to low. Pop your wet shirt in the pot and use a wooden spoon to make sure it’s fully submerged. Cover the pot and let it soak for 30-45 minutes. It’ll be soft and ready to go!

Step 5: Drain And Rinse The Hawaiian Shirt

After the soaking time, turn off the heat. Carefully pour the saltwater and shirt into a strainer or colander. Once the shirt has cooled enough to handle, rinse it well to remove any remaining salt. Then, wash and dry as usual.

Want a more organized wardrobe? Folding your shirts neatly is the key! If you’re unsure how to fold a shirt properly, our guide will show you the best way to keep your closet tidy and space-efficient!

6. Wear and Wash

Things You Need:

• Cotton Hawaiian shirt
• Washing machine
• Dryer

Step 1: Wear the Shirt Often

The more you wear your cotton Hawaiian shirt, the softer it gets! Seriously, the fabric loosens up and feels more comfy every time. So, don’t be afraid to wear it as much as you can!

Step 2: Wash the Shirt Regularly

Wash it after every wear! It might sound simple, but how to wash Hawaiian shirts properly? Check out our article here to learn the right way. Each wash makes your shirt softer and much less stiff!

Step 3: Dry the Shirt in the Dryer

Pop your shirt in the dryer on low heat after washing. The heat will help fluff up the fabric and make it feel extra cozy. It’ll be ready to wear and super comfy!

6 Pro Tips for Perfectly Soft Cotton Hawaiian Shirts

1. Check The Care Label: Always look at the care label before washing your shirt! It will tell you how to wash it like the right temperature and detergent to use. It’s really helpful!
2. Test New Methods First: Try something different on a little portion of your clothing! By doing so, you can ensure that it is safe and will not damage your garment.
3. Line To Dry Your Garment: Hang it outside instead of using the dryer. The natural air and sun are gentle on the fabric, but the dryer might be rough.
4. Don’t Overload The Washer: If it’s too full, your shirt won’t move and may feel stiff. Washing in small loads keeps it soft.
5. Use Warm Water: Wash your shirt in warm water, not hot. Hot water can make the fabric rough. Warm water is just right for keeping it soft and clean!
6. Avoid High Heat in Drying: Avoid using high heat to dry your garment! High heat can stiffen the fabric. Use low heat and take your shirt out as soon as it’s dry to keep it soft.

FAQs

1. Does Cotton Hawaiian Shirts Get Softer The More You Wash It?

Yes, the more you wash them, the softer they get! Each wash helps loosen up the fibers, making the fabric feel way more comfortable. Of course, how soft it gets also depends on the cotton’s quality and how you wash and dry it!

2. Is It Safe To Use Fabric Softener On Cotton Hawaiian Shirts?

It’s best not to use fabric softener on your cotton Hawaiian shirts. Even though it might make your shirt feel softer, it can actually damage the fabric and mess with the colors. Just go for a gentle laundry detergent that’s safe for cotton instead!

3. Will Air Drying My Cotton Hawaiian Shirt Help It Stay Soft?

Yes, air drying is definitely the way to go! Hanging your shirt to dry keeps it soft, unlike machine drying, which can make it feel rough. Just hang it somewhere with good airflow, and your shirt will stay comfy and soft!

How do I make new cotton Hawaiian shirts soft? Making your new cotton Hawaiian shirts soft and comfy is simpler than you might think! With these 6 easy methods, your shirt will feel soft and relaxed in no time. Want more helpful tips to keep your shirts in top shape? Visit Tapa Aloha Shirt for even more great ideas!