Whilst the classic white shirt may be a timeless wardrobe staple it will only remain that way with a little Tender Loving Care.

If you have followed fashion advice on key wardrobe basics and invested in a blouse or shirt with a good quality cotton weave, then your investment needs to be protected by maintaining its look and shape.

Along with a few pointers from The Textile Services Association, here is some helpful advice on how to care for your shirt:

How to Wash a White Shirt

• According to Davis, Fort and Richa in the article “A Crisp White Shirt is a Fashion Classic” from Cleveland.com, “in general it is better to wash your white shirts than to have them dry-cleaned”
• Keep your shirt looking ultra-bright by using a specially formulated detergent for whites.
• Generally a machine wash at 40c is perfect for cotton, but make sure you check the manufacturers label for washing instructions. With the latest trend in detailing and embellishments, there may be specific requirements.
• Never mix whites with colored items. Keep them separate.
• Brighten up a dull looking shirt by using specially formulated fabric bleach such as Ecover’s Laundry Bleach. The same applies to white bras which look very sorry for themselves. Do not use normal bleach as it will yellow the shirt.
• A stain removing product (such as Vanish or Shout) is an essential tool when trying to remove dirt and grime from collars and cuffs, or make up which has accidentally rubbed onto the collar. Use a toothbrush to apply the stain remover but do not rub too hard so as not to damage the fabric.
• Should you suffer from excessive underarm staining from deodorants or perspiration marks then consider sewing in some garment guard patches, available from Amazon.
• Drying your shirt on a hanger will minimize creasing.
• Secure buttons for longer by making sure your unfastening the shirt before placing it in the washing machine.

How to Iron a White Shirt

• Invest in a steam iron if you want perfect looking clothes. Says Ken Thompson, red-carpet stylist to stars (including Natalie Portman and Salma Hayek,) “Nothing beats a good steam iron when it comes to ironing cotton as steam penetrates the fabric and moistens creases, making them easier to remove.”
• If your shirt contains any stretch then avoid using an iron setting which is too hot. If your wardrobe has a lot of delicate fabrics then consider investing in a steam iron (such as Sunbeam’s Accura range) which allows you to use maximum steam at lower temperatures, unlike standard irons.
• For busy mums or those who are always on-the-run, choose an iron with a safety cut-off feature, to avoid any mishaps.
• Many trendy shirts this season have ruffles, lace ribbons and beading detail. “Always use a pressing cloth when ironing lace or beaded fabrics to shine marks,” advises Thompson.
• Silk blouses, contrary to what you may think, despite their delicate appearance are the most resilient of all natural fibers. Use your iron on the silk setting, using regular shorts of steam. However, to prevent shining the fabric, always use a pressing cloth.
• Subject to availability, a free guide called the Fashion Lover’s Guide to Ironing is available through www.flatoutfashion.com.au, for those who register with the site.

Storing Your Clothes

• Use wooden hangers rather than wire when hanging your shirt, as these will keep the shape of it for longer.
• Hang or group white’s together so that colors do not rub off from other items.
• Don't damage collars or sleeves by cramming your clothes tighly in your wardrobe. There should be space between your clothing for you to move them along the rail.

Finally, as a white shirt needs to be worn crisp and wrinkle free, if you loath ironing then spend a little more and invest in a non-iron shirt instead. By giving it a little TLC, keeping your shirt in pristine condition will prevent it from becoming unintentionally off-white, and allow you to continue to wear this versatile piece of women's clothing for years to come.