One of the biggest pet peeves we hear about with promotional apparel is work shirts that end up stinking by the end of a regular Aussie work day. Let's face it, here in Australia the temperatures are always fairly high, and many of us can't avoid sweating in either our commute to work or in the workplace itself. So how best to minimise (and potentially avoid altogether) the unfortunate work shirt stink? We've three ideas that will help you get the best from your personalised clothing.

1. Choose breathable, sweat-wicking fabrics.
2. Wash shirts correctly and consistently.
3. Invest in high-performance materials.

Keeping Promotional Shirts Stink-Free

So how do you keep your shirts in great condition and avoid lingering odours? It certainly helps to pick the right promotional polo shirts or work tees, to begin with.

Pick Fabrics That Breathe

The worst kind of shirt you can pick to wear on an everyday basis is one that doesn't breathe or allow natural airflow around the body. When wearing shirts like this not only are you more likely to sweat, but that sweat isn't going to be able to wick and dry naturally. Fibres like cotton, which is made from natural materials, are ideal to help avoid pooling sweat.

Always Wash as Directed

Particularly for shirts made from materials like rayon and polyester, it is important that you follow the label's instructions when it comes to washing. Synthetic or synthetic blend materials often cannot withstand bleach, strong detergents, or dry cleaning. If you disregard these instructions and try to de-pong your shirts using strong chemicals, there's a good chance you will damage your shirt. If you're looking to get rid of lasting odours add a 1/4 cup of distilled white vinegar to your wash (via the fabric softener compartment) to help liberate your clothes from musty, bodily smells.

Wear High Performance, Modern Shirts

If you work long days or in the outdoors it might be worth considering spending extra on elite polyester shirts featuring technology such as Dri-Weave, CoolDry or Cool Weave fabric. These fabrics have been scientifically blended and designed to absorb sweat while moving moisture to the surface of the fabric for evaporation. Cheaper polyesters can't do this, and you'll just be left feeling wet and miserable. Dri-Sporte and similar materials also have UV protection as well as added stretch, which makes them perfect for working outdoors.

Your Guide to Stink-Free Apparel

Promotional work clothes no longer have to be a source of discomfort or embarrassment. Here are some tips to maximise freshness and comfort in your personalised shirts:

• Understand your materials: Learn about fabrics like cotton, polyester, and Dri-Weave and how they interact with sweat and odour.
• Follow washing instructions: Pay attention to washing instructions on the label. This helps maintain the longevity of the shirt.
• Use vinegar in your wash: This natural substance helps get rid of strong smells and may prove to be the solution you didn't know you needed.
• Invest in high-quality shirts: Elite polyester shirts with special sweat-wicking technologies are worthy investments for the long run.

Selective Shopping & Care Routines

Making smart choices while shopping and developing a careful, effective routine for maintaining your shirts can dramatically improve your apparel experience.

• Breathable fabrics: Prioritise natural materials such as cotton that allow airflow and wick sweat naturally.
• Recommended cleaning products: Opt for detergents that are friendly towards the fabric you choose.
• Routine care: Regular washing and handling as per label instructions can greatly prolong the life of your shirts.
• The right technology: Shirts featuring Dri-Weave, CoolDry, or similar materials are excellent for those who work long days or outdoors.

Final Thoughts

With a little care and consideration, there's no reason for your shirts to be anything less than fresh. Armed with the right knowledge and taking action can completely change your experience. So why wait? Start your journey towards a more comfortable, less smelly workshirt experience now! At Cubic Promote Australia, we endorse and encourage ways to make your promotional products last longer by keeping them ever-fresh and appealing.

So what are you waiting for? Shop smart and take care of your shirts and there's no reason for them to smell any longer!

Content Updated 20/03/18: Video added