“Wrinkle Free” Shirts: Is the Convenience Worth It?

Wrinkle-Free Fans Everywhere

For many, the appearance of wrinkle-free shirts on the retail horizon was almost equivalent in significance to the invention of the automobile. And let’s be honest: if you never had to look at another iron again, there would probably be no true tears shed, would there? Don’t feel bad. You’re definitely in the American majority.

A Star is Born

Wrinkle-free came to be when cotton manufacturers rallied for a strategy to catapult cotton into the #1 position among garment fabrics. Synthetics had been quickly overtaking cotton’s once solid lead. By the 1950s-60s, new technologies were developed that transformed cotton into a remarkably easy-care fabric. Among the new miracle properties of cotton: wrinkle resistance. But, there was a catch, and it’s name is Formaldehyde.

Formaldehyde?

Today, very few people are unfamiliar with formaldehyde. However, the number of people aware that formaldehyde is the toxic wonder behind their beloved iron-free shirts is much smaller. That means the same chemical used to embalm dead animals, classified as a likely carcinogen by the US EPA, continues to be pumped into the fibers of easy-care garments everywhere.

Health Hazards

Formaldehyde. Today, consumers are just beginning to discover the preponderance of harsh chemicals in easy-care garments. Faced with the harsh reality of potential health hazards, more consumers are choosing a higher quality, natural hand shirt with minimal chemical finishing using a fine baked resin. Although many countries across the globe have set restrictions on the amount of formaldehyde that can exist in a garment, the US has yet to set similar standards.

An Educated Choice

The treatment process also causes fabric to become less vibrant and weakened, leads to faster wear at cuffs, collars and elbows, tearing at seams. Additionally, the life expectancy of wrinkle-free treated garments is typically about 25% shorter than non-treated garments of the same or similar fabrics. Even with this information, it’s likely there are a good number of people who will still choose the convenience of wrinkle-free treatment over safety and longevity. Nonetheless, it’s always best to be able to make an educated choice.

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At McPherson Cleaners, we are always happy to help you keep your clothing in the best condition possible. With a convenient pick-up and drop off service, will have your wardrobe looking clean and pristine again at the snap of a finger! To schedule a pickup with McPherson Cleaners, call  (615) 278-9188.

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