The cuffs on the sweatshirt have gone loose

Short answer: Loose cuffs usually come from heat, wringing and years of tugging at the sleeves through many washes. Wash gently, dry without stretching, and shape the cuff with your fingers, and it often regains some of its tension.

Why the cuff loses its tension

The cuff is knitted tighter than the rest of the sweatshirt so it can sit snugly at the wrist. Every time you push the sleeves up, pull at them or dry them hot, the fibres grow a little longer. Over time the cuff sits looser, even though the rest of the sweatshirt still feels like new.

Do not push the sleeves up with force

Many people push their sleeves up over the elbow many times a day, especially when washing hands or cooking. That stretches the cuff so far that it cannot contract again. Try rolling the sleeve lightly or folding the cuff back once, so it can settle into place afterwards.

Wash at a low temperature

Hot water and a strong spin wear on the elastic fibres in the cuff. Choose a gentle program at a low temperature, and use no more detergent than you need. Turn the sweatshirt inside out so the friction falls on the inside. Always follow the label, and go especially easy on cuffs that are already loose, as on your bamboo hoodie for women.

Dry without heat or wringing

The tumble dryer is hard on cuffs, because heat and knocking take away some of the elasticity. Let the sweatshirt dry lying flat on a rack instead, and press the water out rather than wringing. While the cuff is damp, you can shape it with your fingers so it sits as an even ring around the wrist.

Try to bring back the tightness

A slightly loose cuff can often regain some shape if you dip it briefly in lukewarm water, press the water out and let it dry flat with the cuff drawn together. It does not always work, and it is no substitute for new elastic, but it is a cheap try before you give up. Be patient and gentle.

Sew on or replace the cuff

If the cuff is completely slack, a seamstress can sew on a new one or take the sleeve in a little so it fits better. That requires the fabric to be in good condition otherwise. It is a sensible choice if you like the sweatshirt and the fit is otherwise good. Ask for advice before you decide.

Fit decides how hard the cuff works

A sweatshirt with sleeves that are too long means you push them up all the time. Choose a size where the cuff ends at the wrist bone and the shoulder sits as it should. The same goes for the rest of your clothes, such as bamboo jogging sets for women, where the ankle cuff works the same way.

Look after other pieces too

Once you notice loose cuffs, you start to notice the rest of the wardrobe. Tops often have sleeve ends or necklines that can also go slack. You can compare with bamboo tops for women, where the cut and edges are kept simple, and wash them all on a gentle program.

Frequently asked questions

Can loose cuffs become tight again?

Partly. Gentle washing and drying flat can bring back some of the shape, but new elasticity cannot be created. If the cuff is completely slack, a seamstress can replace it.

Can the sweatshirt go in the tumble dryer?

It is best to avoid it. Heat and knocking take away the elasticity in the cuffs. Dry it flat instead, and always follow the label in the garment for the right care.

Why do only the cuffs go loose?

The cuffs are pulled and pushed more than the rest of the garment. They are knitted tightly and work harder, which is why they wear first.

You can find the full range at Copenhagen Bamboo.