Wash inside out and why it protects your clothes

Short answer: When you wash inside out, the inside takes most of the rubbing against the drum and other laundry. That protects the surface from bobbles and wear and helps prints and colours last. It costs nothing. Here is why it works and how to do it.

Why wash inside out helps

In the machine, clothes rub against the drum, against zips and against each other. When you turn them inside out, the inner side takes the rubbing while the surface you see on the outside is spared. That gives fewer bobbles, less dullness and a tidier look, for knits and soft jersey alike.

Fewer bobbles and less wear

Bobbles form when small fibres loosen and tangle together. When the surface is rubbed less, it happens less often. That applies especially to soft, fine fabrics. If you want your clothes to look good for longer, this is one of the easiest habits to learn. It suits things like bamboo clothing for women.

Protecting colours and prints

Colours and prints are exposed to rubbing in the wash and can turn dull over time. When you turn the garment, you protect the side that shows. It is also a good idea to wash dark clothes on their own and at a moderate temperature. That keeps colours deep and fresh for longer, and the clothes look newer.

Zips, buttons and drawstrings

Zips and hook-and-loop fasteners on other clothes can snag the surface. Close them before washing and put especially delicate pieces in a bag. If you tie drawstrings together and fasten buttons, they do not catch on other clothes in the wash. Once the garment is turned, you have one problem less to think about.

Knits, T-shirts and underwear

Inside out, both T-shirts and underwear can be washed without losing their smoothness. That applies, for example, to bamboo T-shirts for women, where the surface is a big part of the feel. If the fabric is soft and fine, it is especially relevant to protect the surface.

Socks and small items

Small items like socks benefit from being turned so the seam and surface are protected. Use a wash bag so they do not disappear in the machine. Bamboo socks are easy to turn by pulling them off inside out. They are then ready for the next wash with no extra work, and you do not lose partners.

Temperature and programme

Turning the garment is only part of the answer. Also choose a gentle programme and a moderate temperature, and follow the care label. Avoid overfilling the machine so the laundry can move freely. Together these steps keep colour, shape and surface looking good, without much change to your everyday routine.

When you turn the garment back after drying

Check whether the garment should be turned back once it is dry. Most can hang to dry inside out and be turned afterwards. That spares the surface from sun and heat. Remember to straighten sleeves and seams so the garment does not dry in crooked folds. It is then ready to wear straight away.

Frequently asked questions

Why wash inside out?

The inside takes the rubbing against the drum and other laundry, so the visible surface is spared. That means fewer bobbles and better protection for colours and prints.

Does it apply to all clothes?

It is a good habit for most things, especially soft knits and jersey, coloured clothes and anything with a print. Always follow the care label in the individual garment.

Do I need to turn clothes back while they dry?

They can dry inside out and be turned afterwards. Straighten sleeves and seams so the garment does not dry in crooked folds.