Methods for improving the brightness and durable press properties of fabric comprise treating the fabric with an aqueous solution comprising formaldehyde, catalyst for crosslinking the formaldehyde with natural fibers in the fabric, and silicone elastomer or precursor thereof, and heating the treated fabric to react the formaldehyde with natural fibers in the fabric. Methods for improving the brightness and shrinkage resistance properties of fabric comprise treating the fabric with an aqueous solution comprising formaldehyde, catalyst for crosslinking the formaldehyde with natural fibers in the fabric, and silicone elastomer or precursor thereof, and heating the treated fabric to react the formaldehyde with natural fibers in the fabric. Cellulose fabric which has a crosslinked formaldehyde durable press treatment and has been subjected to laundering with a brightener-containing detergent exhibits enhanced brightness after the laundering. Cellulose fabrics having a crosslinked formaldehyde treatment exhibit enhanced brightness after home laundering.