How to Store Cotton T-Shirts Properly and Keep Them Wrinkle-Free

Cotton t-shirts are a staple in every wardrobe—lightweight, breathable, and easy to wear. But even the best cotton tees, like the ones from The TSHRT, can lose their charm if they’re stored carelessly. Wrinkles, stretched collars, and faded prints? No thanks.

Here’s a simple guide on how to store your cotton t-shirts so they stay crisp, fresh, and ready to wear.

1. Always Fold, Don’t Hang (Unless…)

Hanging cotton tees can stretch out the neck and shoulders over time. Folding is the better option, especially if you’re stacking shirts in a drawer or on a shelf.

Pro tip: If you must hang them, use padded or wide hangers to avoid shoulder bumps and stretching. And never hang wet t-shirts—they’ll sag and lose shape.

2. Master the Military Fold

Want wrinkle-free tees that take up less space? Try the military fold:

1. Lay the t-shirt face down.
   
2. Fold each sleeve inward.
   
3. Fold each side toward the center to form a long rectangle.
   
4. Fold in half or thirds, depending on your drawer size.
   

This fold keeps things neat and prevents deep creases.

3. Use Storage Boxes or Dividers

Stacking t-shirts in piles can lead to a messy drawer. Instead, use drawer dividers or foldable storage boxes to keep stacks from toppling over. This way, you can grab a tee without disturbing the rest.

Vertical stacking (file-folding style) is also a great way to see everything at once.

4. Store in a Cool, Dry Place

Cotton absorbs moisture easily, which can cause musty smells or even mildew. Make sure your storage area is cool, dry, and well-ventilated.

Avoid direct sunlight—especially for printed tees from The TSHRT—as UV rays can cause fading over time.

5. Add a Sachet or Dryer Sheet

Want your drawer to smell amazing every time you open it? Tuck in a lavender sachet, a cedar block (to prevent moths), or even a dryer sheet to keep your t-shirts smelling fresh.

6. Wash Before Storing Long-Term

If you're putting your cotton tees away for the season, always wash and dry them first. Dirty clothes attract insects and can develop permanent stains or odors if left unwashed.

7. Avoid Overcrowding

Cramming your drawer or shelf with too many t-shirts can cause wrinkles and make it hard to find what you need. Give each tee a little breathing space so it stays smooth and easy to grab.

8. Iron Only When Needed

Avoid unnecessary ironing. Instead, smooth the t-shirt with your hands while folding. If you really need to remove wrinkles, steam is gentler than ironing and won’t damage prints.

Final Thought

Taking care of your cotton tees doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little organization and attention to how you store them, your favorite t-shirts from The TSHRT will stay looking great—wrinkle-free, fresh, and ready to wear. After all, great style starts with how you care for the basics.