Your Tie Deserves Better Treatment Than a Doorknob

Most men own at least a few ties they genuinely like — and then proceed to leave them knotted on a chair back, draped over a hook, or stuffed in a drawer. This is a surefire way to ruin even the most resilient neckwear. The good news: proper tie care is surprisingly simple, and it makes a huge difference in how long your ties last and how good they look.

The Golden Rule: Always Unknot Your Tie

Every time you remove a tie, unknot it completely before storing it. Leaving a knot in place — even overnight — creases the fabric and stretches the inner lining, causing permanent distortion over time. To unknot properly:

  1. Reverse the steps you used to tie the knot — don't just yank it.
  2. Work slowly to avoid pulling the fabric out of shape.
  3. Let the tie rest flat or hang for a few minutes before storing.

How to Store Ties Properly

There are three good methods for storing ties, each with its own advantages:

Method 1: Hanging on a Tie Rack

A dedicated tie rack — either a wall-mounted bar or a rotating hanger that fits in your wardrobe — is the most convenient storage solution. Hang ties by the narrow end to preserve the shape of the blade. This method lets you see all your ties at a glance and keeps them wrinkle-free.

Method 2: Rolling for Drawers

If you prefer drawer storage, roll each tie loosely starting from the narrow end, leaving a gentle spiral. Place them side by side in a drawer. Rolling is gentler than folding and avoids creating permanent creases. This works especially well for travel.

Method 3: Laying Flat

For delicate or especially valuable ties (vintage silk, for instance), laying them flat in a box or drawer with tissue paper is the safest option. It requires more space but provides maximum protection.

Dealing with Wrinkles

Silk ties often develop light creases after wearing. In many cases, simply hanging them overnight allows the fabric to relax naturally. For more stubborn wrinkles:

  • Steam (carefully): Hold the tie over a steaming kettle or use a garment steamer from a distance of several inches. Never press the steamer directly against the fabric.
  • Iron with extreme caution: Use the lowest heat setting, place a pressing cloth between the iron and the tie, and never press down hard. Move gently and avoid the edges, which can develop shiny marks.
  • The roll trick: Roll the tie loosely around a clean cylinder (like a cardboard tube) and leave it overnight. The tension gradually smooths the fabric.

Cleaning Ties: What to Do (and What Not to Do)

Ties are notoriously difficult to clean, which is why prevention is always the first priority. Tuck your tie into your shirt when eating, or simply flip it over your shoulder.

Spot Cleaning (for small stains)

Act fast — the sooner you treat a stain, the better. Blot (don't rub) the stain gently with a clean, slightly damp cloth. Work from the outside of the stain inward to avoid spreading it. For oil-based stains, a little talcum powder or cornstarch applied and left for several hours can absorb the grease before brushing away.

Professional Dry Cleaning

For significant stains or general cleaning, always take silk and wool ties to a professional dry cleaner who has experience with delicate fabrics. Mention the fabric and the nature of the stain. Never attempt to machine wash or hand wash a silk tie — the water, agitation, and twisting will distort the lining and shape permanently.

Polyester and Cotton Ties

These more resilient fabrics can sometimes be hand-washed gently in cool water, but always check the care label first. Even with sturdier fabrics, machine washing is generally too aggressive for structured neckwear.

Long-Term Storage Tips

  • Store ties away from direct sunlight, which fades colors over time — especially vibrant silk dyes.
  • Keep ties in a cool, dry environment. Humidity encourages mold and fabric breakdown.
  • If storing seasonally, use breathable fabric bags rather than plastic, which traps moisture.
  • Add cedar blocks or sachets to your storage area to deter moths, particularly for wool ties.

A Little Care Goes a Long Way

A well-cared-for silk tie can last decades and still look impeccable. The habits involved — unknotting after use, hanging properly, treating stains immediately — take seconds and pay dividends for years. Treat your ties with the same respect you give your shoes or your suits, and they'll reward you with a lifetime of elegant service.