Why Does This Happen?
Have you ever noticed small wrinkles or waves around the buttonholes after washing your dress shirt?
This is very common. It happens because different parts of the shirt shrink differently during washing and drying.
1. The Buttonholes Don’t Shrink Like the Fabric
Buttonholes are stitched with thick, strong thread.
The fabric may shrink a little, but the stitching does not.
This difference pulls the fabric and creates wrinkles.
2. The Placket Has Multiple Layers
The front placket (where the buttons are attached) has several layers of fabric and interfacing.
These layers don’t always shrink at the same rate, so the placket may become wavy.
3. High Heat Makes It Worse
Using a hot dryer can shrink cotton fabric even more.
It may also affect the interfacing inside the shirt.
Low heat is always a better choice.
How to Prevent It
Here are a few simple tips:
- Wash in cool or warm water.
- Dry on low heat.
- Remove the shirt while it’s still slightly damp.
- Smooth the placket with your hands before it dries completely.
- Don’t leave the shirt in the dryer after the cycle ends.
How to Iron Around the Buttonholes
Professional cleaners usually follow these steps.
Step 1
Turn the shirt inside out.
Step 2
Iron the buttonhole area from the inside first.
This helps flatten the fabric without the buttons getting in the way.
Step 3
Turn the shirt right side out.
Lightly press the front for a smooth finish.
Step 4
Use steam whenever possible.
Steam relaxes the fabric and removes wrinkles more easily.
If the Wrinkles Stay
Sometimes the wrinkles don’t disappear completely.
This may be caused by:
- fabric shrinkage,
- interfacing shrinkage, or
- the way the shirt was made.
A professional cleaner can often improve the appearance, but some permanent puckering cannot be completely removed.