How to Wash Performance Golf Polos and Keep Them Looking New

on Mar 03 2026

Performance polos are built to handle sweat and heat but the way you wash them decides how long they actually stay crisp. The goal is simple. Keep the fabric breathable. Keep the stretch springy. Keep the collar and color looking clean.

Here is the easiest routine that works for most performance golf polos.

The quick routine that protects performance fabric

Step 1 Turn the polo inside out

This protects the outer surface and helps prevent pilling.

Step 2 Wash cold on gentle

Cold water helps preserve color and reduces wear on stretch fibers.

Step 3 Use mild detergent

Skip heavy detergents that leave residue. Residue can block breathability and trap odor.

Step 4 Wash with similar fabrics

Avoid towels and rough cotton. Those can create friction and pull at the surface.

Step 5 Air dry when you can

If you need a dryer use low heat. High heat is the fastest way to damage stretch and warp collars.

Can you put performance polos in the dryer

Yes but treat heat like a spice. A little can be fine. Too much ruins the meal.

Best approach

  1. Shake the polo out after washing
  2. Dry on low heat for a short cycle
  3. Pull it out slightly damp
  4. Hang it to finish

This reduces wrinkles and protects the stretch.

How to keep a polo collar crisp and flat

Collars usually curl from heat and bad storage. (Our collars don't)

Do this instead

  1. Avoid high heat drying
  2. Button the top button before hanging so the collar sits in its natural shape
  3. Store polos folded if your closet is crowded and collars get crushed
  4. If you iron use low heat and place a cloth between iron and fabric

If a collar already curls lightly steam it and press it flat with your hand while warm. Then let it cool flat.

How to remove deodorant and sweat marks

Deodorant marks often sit in the fabric and build up over time.

Simple fix

  1. Mix a small amount of gentle detergent with water into a paste
  2. Rub it into the stain area gently
  3. Let it sit 15 minutes
  4. Wash cold on gentle

For sweat odor

Add a small amount of white vinegar to the rinse cycle. It helps break down residue that can hold odor.

How to store performance polos so they stay ready

If you hang polos

Use a wide hanger so shoulders do not crease.

If you fold polos

Fold with the collar flat and do not stack too heavy on top. Weight can crease and curl collars.

Travel tip

Roll the polo instead of folding if you pack tight. Rolling reduces sharp fold lines.

If your old polos are fading, shrinking or losing shape it might be time for a real performance upgrade

Shop Flyer Lie polos built for comfort and a clean look that lasts

Shop Flyer Lie performance polos and find the one you will actually want to wear every week

Polo FAQs


Cotton can feel nice but it usually holds moisture and dries slowly. Performance fabrics are better for hot rounds and walking.

Only if your current size restricts rotation or pulls across the shoulders. Mobility matters more than a snug look.

Most do not shrink much if cared for correctly. Wash cold and avoid high heat to keep fit and feel consistent.