Are you tired of your shirt collars looking like bacon after just one wash?
Don’t worry, you’re not alone. The dreaded “bacon neck” is a common problem that many of us face.
But fear not, there are some easy life hacks to restore your shirt collars back to their original crispness.
From ironing to dry cleaning, we’ve got you covered. And if you’re a T-shirt lover, we’ve even got a nifty hack to fix those scruffy and warped necklines.
So, sit back and relax as we show you how to say goodbye to bacon neck forever.
How To Fix Bacon Neck?
Ironing is the tried and true solution for fixing bacon neck. The heat, pressure, and moisture from the iron smooth out even the most stubborn wrinkles. However, make sure to check the type of shirt you’re ironing. Cotton and cotton blends can take higher temperatures while polyester shirts need lower heat.
If you don’t have an iron or don’t want to wait for it to heat up, you can try dry cleaning. For about $2, your local dry cleaner will get that collar looking almost new using a special petroleum-based chemical used to remove stains and grease. However, keep in mind that this may not be the best option for polos and casual button-downs since they will have an overly pressed, almost boxy look.
Avoid using a shower or steamer to fix bacon neck as they are only effective for removing wrinkles and not fixing folds, corners, or creases in the collar.
Another life hack is to soak collars after wear. You can soak the collars on your tees, press them into place while wet, then lay flat to dry. However, this doesn’t guarantee that the fabric bonds won’t snap back to the bacon neck you had before. When clothes get wet, the fabric’s molecular bonds that form “bacon collar” break down but need some guiding to reattach to take the shape of the collar’s original look. Your hands pressing the clothes for a minute or two isn’t long enough for the shirt to dry and for bond.
If you’re a T-shirt lover, there’s a nifty hack to fix those scruffy and warped necklines. First, fold the neckline in a wave-like or accordion pattern. Next, dunk the collar in a bowl of ice water to stiffen the cotton fibers, keeping the folds in their place. Squeeze excess water out from the material while still maintaining the folds. Lay the T-shirt on a flat surface and move your fingers vertically from bottom up to smoothen out the lines on the collar. Then iron the neckline to flatten it further in an upwards direction. Give it a few hours to dry on its own and ta-dah! Your scroungy old tee should be looking as good as new with a refreshed collar.
What Is Bacon Neck?
“Bacon neck” is a term used to describe the wrinkled and creased collar of a shirt after just one wash. It can be frustrating to have a shirt that looks sloppy and unkempt, especially when you need to dress professionally. The collar may curl or have strange creases, making it difficult to fix with conventional methods. The term “bacon neck” comes from the resemblance of the collar to the uneven and crumpled appearance of cooked bacon. It is a common problem that many people face when washing their shirts, but luckily, there are several life hacks to restore your shirt collar back to its original self.
Dry Cleaning Tips For Bacon Neck
Dry cleaning is a great option for fixing bacon neck, especially if you don’t have an iron or don’t want to wait for it to heat up. For about $2, your local dry cleaner will use a special petroleum-based chemical to remove stains and grease from the collar, making it look almost new. However, keep in mind that this may not be the best option for polos and casual button-downs since they will have an overly pressed, almost boxy look.
When taking your shirt to the dry cleaner, make sure to point out the bacon neck problem so they can pay extra attention to it. It’s also a good idea to let them know what kind of fabric your shirt is made of so they can adjust their cleaning method accordingly. If you’re unsure about the best way to care for your shirt, check the label for cleaning instructions or ask the salesperson where you bought it.
It’s also important to note that dry cleaning can be harmful to the environment and may not be the most sustainable option. If you’re looking for a more eco-friendly solution, try ironing or soaking the collar as mentioned earlier.
DIY Solutions For Bacon Neck
If you’re looking for DIY solutions to fix bacon neck, there are a few things you can try at home. One option is to use a hair straightener to smooth out the collar. Simply clamp the straightener onto the collar and run it along the length of the fabric, applying pressure as needed. This method works best for small areas and can be time-consuming for larger collars.
Another DIY solution is to use a combination of vinegar and water to remove wrinkles and restore the collar’s shape. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and spritz onto the collar. Use your hands to smooth out any wrinkles or creases, then hang the shirt to air dry.
For a quick fix, you can also use a handheld steamer to remove wrinkles and reshape the collar. Hold the steamer close to the fabric and use your hands to shape the collar as needed.
Lastly, if you have a T-shirt with a stubborn bacon neck, you can try cutting off the collar and replacing it with a new one. This may require some sewing skills, but it’s a great way to give new life to an old favorite tee.
Preventing Bacon Neck In The Future
Preventing bacon neck in the future is all about proper care for your shirts. Here are a few tips to keep your collars looking crisp and clean:
1. Wash your shirts in cold water: Hot water can damage the fibers of your shirt, causing them to shrink and lose their shape. Washing in cold water will help preserve the shape of your collar.
2. Hang dry or lay flat to dry: The dryer can be harsh on collars, causing them to lose their shape and become wrinkled. Hang your shirts on a hanger or lay them flat to dry to help maintain the shape of the collar.
3. Use fabric softener: Fabric softener can help reduce wrinkles and keep your collars looking fresh. Just be sure to follow the instructions on the bottle and don’t overuse it, as too much can cause buildup on your clothes.
4. Store your shirts properly: Hanging your shirts on a hanger can cause the collar to stretch out over time. Instead, fold them neatly and store them in a drawer or on a shelf.
By following these simple tips, you can help prevent bacon neck in the future and keep your shirts looking sharp and well-maintained.
