Avoiding shrinkage the first time you wash a T-shirt

Short answer: You avoid the T-shirt shrinking the first time by washing it by the label, choosing a cool temperature, turning it inside out and air drying instead of tumble drying. Measure yourself, so you can choose a size that also fits after washing.

Why shrinkage happens the first time

In the first wash the fibres draw together, because the fabric has been stretched during production and heat and movement let it settle. That is why a T-shirt can become a little shorter or narrower. It is normal, but you can limit it with a careful first wash.

Read the care label first

The care label in the T-shirt tells you how hot you may wash and whether the tumble dryer is allowed. Follow it, and choose a lower temperature rather than the highest. If you are unsure, wash at a gentle temperature, because that is rarely wrong.

Wash cold or lukewarm

Hot water makes the fibres draw together, so wash cold or lukewarm the first time. Look at bamboo T-shirts for women and choose a gentle programme if the label allows it. If the T-shirt is not very dirty, a low temperature often goes a long way.

Turn it inside out

When you turn the T-shirt inside out, you reduce rubbing on the surface. That helps the fabric keep its smoothness and shape. Use a laundry bag if you wash with heavier items, so it is not stretched or pulled crooked.

Air dry, not tumble dry

The tumble dryer is the biggest cause of shrinkage, because heat and movement draw the fibres together. Air dry the T-shirt and lay it flat or hang it on a wide hanger. Shape it lightly while it is damp, so it dries at the right size.

Choose the size with care

If you are between two sizes, think about whether you want it close or loose and how you wash. If you wash gently, you can take your usual size. Measure yourself and compare with the size guide so you do not guess, and remember that the length can change most.

Wash T-shirts with similar items

Wash T-shirts with clothes that are washed at the same temperature. That can be socks for women and bamboo knickers if the labels match. Avoid washing them with heavy items such as towels, which rub and wear the surface.

If it has already shrunk

If the T-shirt has already shrunk, you can try putting it in lukewarm water with a little mild detergent, gently pulling it into shape and letting it dry flat. It does not always work, and the fabric must not be pulled too hard. Next time you can choose one size up.

In short, go easy on the first wash

Read the label, wash cold or lukewarm, turn it inside out and air dry. Measure yourself and choose a size that fits. Then the T-shirt shrinks as little as possible the first time and keeps its fit for longer.

Frequently asked questions

Why does a T-shirt shrink the first time?

The fibres draw together because the fabric was stretched during production, and heat and movement let it settle.

Which temperature should I choose?

Follow the care label, and choose a lower temperature rather than the highest. Cooler water gives less shrinkage.

May I use a tumble dryer?

Only if the label allows it. Air drying usually gives less shrinkage.

You can find the full range at Copenhagen Bamboo.