How to wash a guayabera?

Do you have a guayabera and would like to wash it? Would you like it to be as clean as the first day but don't know where to start?

Don't worry. We know that a guayabera is a delicate item and that it is essential to clean it carefully. Our team has looked into the matter and will reveal all the steps to wash your guayabera like a professional.

Washing a guayabera according to the washing and ironing instructions is a simple way to prolong its life and ensure it stays clean.

In this article, we give you a basic guide with essential tips to keep in mind when washing your guayaberas. You will also discover tips on how to take better care of your guayabera.

Let's get started.

I - Can I wash my guayabera shirt?

Guayaberas are the favorite among those who wear this garment. Its popularity is due to the fact that linen is a fabric of excellent quality, super comfortable and fresh.

Linen or cotton is always a guarantee of elegance and class. Some people see the complicated part of having delicate guayaberas, because of the care of this fabric as it sometimes requires special treatment to wash it, dry it, keep it ironed and even hang it.

This complexity is due to the fact that it tends to wrinkle easily and can also shrink and wear out if you do not handle it carefully. Although you should keep in mind that also the natural wrinkling of linen is beautiful in itself.

And if you are still wondering if you can wash a guayabera, the answer is yes, of course!

Sure, there are several ways you can use to wash a guayabera:

• Take them to the dry cleaners
• Hand wash them
• Use your washing machine

Below, learn about the features, benefits and disadvantages of each of these options, and choose the one that best suits your preferences and the conditions you have at home.

II - Washing a guayabera shirt in a dry cleaner's shop

 

Sending your guayabera shirt to the dry cleaner's is always the most convenient, because you save the work that would involve washing it at home. In addition to this convenience, dry cleaning is very effective for fabrics such as linen or cotton, especially if it is dyed, because with this process, the color does not wear out.

On the other hand, you should keep in mind that sometimes dry cleaners use very aggressive chemicals that can also damage the fabrics, so be sure to ask that the cycle used to wash your guayaberas, whatever the fabric, is light.

Another detail about dry cleaning is that you should avoid sending your guayaberas if they have stains, because the same chemical products could fix them.

For this reason, we advise you to remove the stain at home and then you can send the piece to the dry cleaner. Don't know how to get rid of stains on guayaberas? We'll tell you how below.

III - Washing a guayabera shirt in a washing machine

The good news is that contrary to what many people think, washing guayaberas in washing machines is not bad. However, let's be clear that if you do it incorrectly, the fabric could be damaged or shrink. In Linen Horse we tell you how to wash it in the washing machine so you don't make any mistake:

1. Check all the pockets so that nothing is left inside, unbutton the buttons and remove the cufflinks in case any have been used.
2. Prepare the washing machine and do not place other clothes that are not made of the same material as your guayabera, preferably place few pieces so that they do not collide with each other during washing, so you avoid wrinkling them too much. You can use bags or grids to protect them better and prevent them from getting tangled.
3. Select a gentle cycle, usually identified as a cycle or program for delicate clothes. This is very important, because a gentle and slow wash with cold water will prevent your clothes from shrinking.
4. Use effective soaps or detergents, but not too aggressive, without chlorine. Also add some fabric softener.
5. When the washing cycle is finished, take out the guayabera shirts immediately to avoid wrinkling, check that all the pieces are free of soap or detergent so that they are not stained with these products, that they are well rinsed clean and well rinsed.
6. Do not use the dryer, the heat will shrink the linen or the cotton fibers ! The best thing to do is to hang them well stretched on the clothesline and wait. We tell you the towel trick, which consists of wrapping the piece in a towel so that it absorbs all the moisture and then hang it out to dry.

IV - Washing a guayabera shirt by hand

Now if you don't trust washing machines to wash your guayaberas, you can always wash your guayabera by hand. It's quite simple and will only take you a few minutes.

1. Fill a bucket, tub or other large container with fresh or preferably cold water, add soap flakes and dissolve them. Remember that the soap you use should not be too strong to avoid damaging the fabric.
2. Place the guayaberas in the water and let them soak for 20 to 30 minutes.
3. Gently scrub the dirty areas, pay attention to the collar and under the sleeves as these areas of the collar and armpits are where dirt usually accumulates. Be careful with saddlebags, buttons and embroidered details.
4. Take out the guayaberas removing the excess soap, but without squeezing. Change the water in the bucket for new, clean water without soap.
5. Replace the guayaberas and rinse carefully, repeat this process until you see that there are no soap remains in the water.
6. Take them out without squeezing and hang your guayabera shirts for a few minutes to remove the water.
7. To dry them you can use the towel method mentioned above or if you are more patient you can let the air do its job.

In the end, washing and caring for a guayabera is not complicated and you will see a good result, besides it will be a garment that because of the fabric will last much longer.

V - Removing stubborn stains from a guayabera

Stains on clothes in general can be a real headache if you don't know how to remove them.

The worst thing is that clothes stain quite often and talking about linen clothes or cotton clothes as they are very absorbent fabrics, so take note of the following foolproof solutions that will get you out of trouble:

1. Removing stains from a guayabera with liquid soap or Glycerin.

This is a very effective trick, especially when it has been a few hours after the stain appeared, you only need some liquid soap, glycerin and water.

1. With the guayabera dry, place a few drops of liquid soap or glycerin on the stain for a few minutes to let it act.
2. Rub the area with your fingertips.
3. Wash your guayabera shirt as you normally do.
4. Repeat this process as many times as necessary until the stain disappears.

2. Removing stains with lemon and baking soda

Lemon is very effective in removing stains but the trick is that you must do it immediately after they appear.

1. Add lemon juice to the affected area.
2. Also add baking soda.
3. Place the garment in the sun for a few hours.
4. Check that the stain has disappeared, if it has not disappeared add more lemon and baking soda until it is gone.
5. Wash your guayabera shirt as you normally do.

VI - How and where to store my guayabera

Proper storage is essential to maintain the quality and appearance of your Guayabera. Follow these tips to ensure your garment stays in great condition:

Hanging: When hanging your Guayabera, choose a cool, dry place in your wardrobe. Opt for a sturdy hanger that supports the weight of the shirt without stretching or distorting its shape. Use padded or wide hangers to distribute the weight evenly and prevent any creases or indentations.

Folding: If you prefer to fold your Guayabera, do it with care to avoid creasing or wrinkling. Start by buttoning up the shirt and laying it flat on a clean surface. Smooth out any wrinkles or folds, and then fold the sleeves and sides inward towards the center. Finally, fold the shirt in half or into thirds, depending on the size of your storage space. Place it in a drawer or on a shelf, away from direct sunlight.

Protection: To safeguard your Guayabera from dust, insects, and potential damage, consider using protective covers or garment bags. These breathable covers will shield your shirt from external elements while allowing air circulation to prevent musty odors.

Sunlight exposure: Avoid exposing your Guayabera to direct sunlight for prolonged periods. Sunlight can fade the colors and weaken the fabric over time. If you need to air out your shirt in the sun, do it briefly and ensure it is properly protected with a cover or placed in a shaded area.

Humidity control: Excessive humidity can lead to mold, mildew, and musty odors on your Guayabera. Avoid storing it in damp or humid environments like basements or bathrooms. Consider using moisture-absorbing products, such as silica gel packets or moisture control packs, in your storage area to help maintain optimal humidity levels.

By following these storage recommendations, you can prolong the lifespan of your Guayabera and ensure it remains fresh and ready to wear for years to come.

Remember, proper care and storage are essential to preserve the beauty and integrity of this iconic garment.

Now that you have some tips on how to take care of a guayabera, you will be able to wear your shirt impeccably and with the certainty that it is a durable, fresh and always fashionable garment.