A cure for ‘bacon neck’: How to keep your T-shirts in top shape
Marlon Brando was a victim of it, even Princess Diana was caught out by a collar ‘curled like bacon in a pan’. Here are a few ways to avoid their fate
TL;DR
- "Bacon neck" is the term for a crinkly, ill-fitting collar caused by loss of elasticity.
- This condition results from the breakdown of elastic fibers in the fabric due to heat, moisture, and repeated stretching.
- To prevent it, avoid pulling T-shirts off by the collar, wash in cooler water (below 40C or hand wash), use mesh laundry bags, and avoid overloading the washing machine.
- Air-dry shirts on a flat surface and avoid hanging wet collars by the neckline or wringing them out.
- Folding shirts for storage is better than hanging; if hanging, use sturdy hangers and insert them through the bottom of the shirt, not the neck.
- Collars made with a blend containing 2-5% elastane (spandex) are more resistant to developing "bacon neck."
- For existing "bacon neck," steaming the neckline on low heat is recommended; other DIY methods include pleating and soaking in ice water or replacing the collar elastic.
- Certain brands like Uniqlo, Varley, Cos, Sunspel, Arket, and Carhartt are mentioned for their durable necklines.