Myth, soft fabric does not last

Short answer: Softness and strength are two different things. Softness comes from the surface of the fibre, strength comes from the quality of the yarn, and both can easily be found in the same fabric.

Two separate qualities

When we touch a fabric, it is the surface we feel. It can be smooth and soft whether the yarn underneath is strong or weak. Strength lies in the yarn: how long the fibres are and how well they are spun together. See bamboo slips as an example of a soft fabric worn close to the body.

Where the myth comes from

A lot of cheap soft fabric is soft for the wrong reason. The fibres are short, and short fibres feel fluffy at first but hold together poorly in the yarn. After a few washes they start working their way out of the fabric. Many people have experienced this, which is why the idea that soft clothing does not last is so common.

Short and long fibres

A yarn made from long fibres has fewer loose ends. The fibres lie close and are twisted well together, so they stay in place even when the fabric is stretched and washed. Short fibres have many ends sticking out, and those ends are easily pulled loose. That is the difference between fabric that keeps its shape and fabric that wears quickly.

How to tell the difference

A soft fabric that is smooth and even is spun from long fibres. One that pills is not. Look at the surface in good light and notice whether there are small hairs or fluff. You can also rub it lightly with a finger. A good fabric feels the same afterwards. Take a look at women's bamboo tops.

Pilling is a sign

Pilling happens when short fibres are rubbed loose and gather into small balls on the surface. It shows up most where the fabric gets the most wear. If you see pilling after only a few washes, it points to short fibres. If it appears only after long use, it is normal wear.

Softness can last

A fabric that is soft from the start because of a smooth fibre surface usually stays soft. The softness belongs to the fibre itself and is not a coating that washes out. It does require proper care, though. High heat and harsh drying can make even good fabric stiff and rough over time.

Care that protects both

Wash at forty degrees, ideally on a gentle cycle, and turn garments inside out. Do not use more detergent than needed, and skip the tumble dryer. Wash soft fabrics with other light items so they do not rub against rough ones. This also applies to bamboo socks for men and women.

What to look for

When judging a soft fabric, look at three things: the surface, the seams and how the fabric behaves when you stretch it lightly. A smooth surface, even seams and fabric that springs back into shape all point to good yarn. Softness alone tells you very little.

Frequently asked questions

Does soft fabric wear out faster

No, not in itself. Softness is about the fibre surface, strength is about yarn quality. A fabric can have both if the yarn is spun from long fibres.

Why do so many people think soft means weak

Because a lot of cheap clothing is soft for the wrong reason, namely short fibres that make a weak yarn and start pilling after a few washes.

How can you tell if a soft fabric is strong

By the surface. If it is smooth and even without fluff, the yarn is spun from long fibres, and the fabric can be both soft and long lasting.