Washing inside out, why it helps

Short answer: When you wash clothes inside out, the friction in the machine hits the inside instead of the side people see. It protects the colour, reduces pilling on the surface and cleans the layer that sits against the skin better.

The friction hits the inside

In the drum, clothes rub against each other and the drum wall throughout the wash. That wears the surface and draws colour out of the fibres over time. Turn the fabric and the outside is spared. The colour then lasts longer on a bamboo tank top for men.

Cleaning gets better

Sweat, skin cells and deodorant sit on the inside of clothes. Turn the fabric and water and detergent reach the dirtiest layer directly. That gives a better wash without a higher temperature. It applies especially to close fitting clothes like most popular for women.

Less pilling on the surface

Pilling forms when friction pulls loose fibre ends out of the surface and they gather into small balls. Wash inside out and the friction happens on the inside, so the outside stays smooth longer. It makes a visible difference on soft fabrics, especially on shoulders and sleeves.

The colour lasts longer

Dark clothes lose some colour with every wash, as the surface wears and dye washes out. Turning clothes protects the side that shows. Combine it with washing at 40 degrees or lower and a detergent without bleach. That keeps black and navy clothes their colour for longer.

Prints and details are spared

If a garment has a print, embroidery or a special surface, turning it is even more important. Details can otherwise wear, crack or catch on other clothes in the drum. Inside out, they sit protected within the fabric and handle washing better over time.

Make it a habit

Turn clothes as you take them off, instead of turning a whole basket in front of the machine. The job gets done as you go, and you do not need to think about it again. That goes for everything in bamboo sweatwear, T-shirts, underwear and sweatshirts alike.

Drying inside out

There is no need to turn clothes back before drying. If they dry indoors or in the shade, it does not matter which side faces out. If they dry in direct sun, it is better to leave them inside out. The outside then fades less, and the colour lasts.

Other good washing habits

Washing inside out works best alongside other gentle habits. Close zips and buttons so they do not rub other clothes. Fill the machine about three quarters full. Choose a spin of eight hundred to a thousand revolutions and take the clothes out straight after the wash.

Frequently asked questions

Does it apply to white clothes too

Yes. Inside out helps against a grey tinge, because dirt on the inside rinses out more easily. Wash whites separately so they do not pick up colour.

Should clothes dry inside out as well

In direct sun, yes, as the outside fades less. Otherwise it does not matter, and you can turn clothes back once they are dry and ready to fold.

Does it help against pilling

Yes, noticeably. Pilling comes from friction on the surface, and inside out the friction happens on the inside, so the visible side stays smooth for longer.