Taking Care of Your Ties

Ties are a great investment in a man's wardrobe. You can help to expand your wardrobe by matching different ties with different shirts and suits. A tie can also say a lot about you. If the tie is wrinkled, worn, or tattered it gives the impression that you don't care. By contrast, a nice, clean, well-shaped tie helps to make the whole look appear "put together."

Taking care of your ties begins with removing your tie and how you untie your tie. The easiest way in removing your tie can also be the best way to ruin your tie. It's easy to pull the thin end through the knot, but fight the urge to do this. By removing your tie this way you will ruin the shape of your tie. The best way to remove your tie and help to keep its shape longer is by following the tie-tying process in reverse.

Ties are very impressionable and are made out of delicate fabric that requires special care. Part of this care is how you store your tie. The way that you store your tie affects how long it will last and still keep its shape. Take the time to hang your tie properly and it can last virtually forever. The proper way is to either hang it over a coat hanger or a closet rack. This allows the creases and folds from the knot of the tie to fall out. There are a lot of men who roll up their tie and place it in the drawer or just simply lay the tie over a chair. By doing this you are actually folding in the creases, making for an unkempt tie.

When traveling you want to help maintain your ties' shape. This can be done by simply folding the ties into fourths (fold it in half and then half again) and placing them inside your suit coat's pocket.

Unfortunately, with time your ties will become wrinkled. Do not press your ties! The next time you shower, take your ties into the bathroom. Hang your ties where they won't get wet but will get the steam from the shower. If you have more stubborn wrinkles, than consider purchasing a hand-held steamer.

There are times that your tie may need to be cleaned. A stain can ruin a perfectly good tie, making it un-wearable. If you should happen to get a stain on your tie, try to remove the stain as soon as possible. To help, use cold water and blot the stain to prevent it from setting. If you have access to some seltzer water or club soda use this instead of cold water. However, if the stain is a gravy stain or something else that is greasy apply some talcum powder (baby powder) on your tie; this helps to absorb the grease. A few hours later just brush off the powder and then clean.

If you decide that your ties need to be taken to the cleaners remind them that you do not want your ties pressed. Pressing a tie will make the edges roll and ruin the shape.

With just a little care your ties will always be ready when you need them.