Colour differences between production runs

Short answer: Colours can vary slightly between two production runs of the same item. It is normal in textile production and happens because every dye bath is its own. The difference is small and only shows when two pieces lie side by side.

Every bath is its own

Even with the same recipe, two dye baths are never quite identical. Temperature, water, time and the amount of fabric vary a little each time. Every small change affects how much colour the fibres take up. The result is two pieces made the same way that are not quite the same. See bamboo tank tops for men.

Small but measurable

To the naked eye the difference only shows when two pieces lie side by side. On their own, both look as they should. Only in direct comparison can one seem a shade lighter, darker or warmer than the other. At a distance or when worn, the difference almost vanishes. See bamboo sweatshirts for men.

Some colours show it more

Mid tones such as grey, navy and olive show small differences more clearly than very light or very dark colours. The eye is good at spotting shades in the middle range. Black and white can vary too, but there the difference has to be larger before anyone notices it.

Buy together if it must match

If two pieces need exactly the same colour, buy them at the same time. They will then most likely come from the same production and the same bath. This matters most for a set worn together, such as a sweatshirt and trousers in the same colour. See bestsellers for men.

Washing makes a difference too

A piece that has been worn for a while has been through many washes. That changes the shade slightly, whichever production it came from. When you compare a new piece with an older one, production is not the only reason. Washing and wear play at least as big a part.

Compare in daylight

Light affects how colours look. Under a lamp two pieces can look the same, while in daylight they show a small difference, or the other way round. If you want to check whether two pieces match, lay them by a window. Daylight gives the truest picture of the colour.

Look after the colour

Wash clothing inside out and at the temperature on the care label. Sort dark and light colours, and avoid drying dark clothing in strong sun. The colour then stays closer to its original shade, and a new and an older piece drift less apart over time.

It is not a fault

A small colour difference between production runs is not a sign of poor quality. It is a natural part of how textiles are dyed. The pieces are made to the same recipe and have the same properties. Only the shade can differ slightly, and most people never see it in daily life.

Frequently asked questions

Why is the colour not exactly the same every time

Because every dye bath is its own. Even with the same recipe, two production runs give a small difference, as temperature, water and time vary.

How big is the difference

So small that it only shows when two pieces lie side by side. At a distance and when worn, most people cannot see it.

How do you make sure of exactly the same colour

By buying the pieces at the same time. They will then most likely come from the same production and the same bath, so the shade matches best.