What makes a fabric soft

Short answer: Softness comes from three things. The surface of the fibre, how finely the yarn is spun, and how loosely the fabric is knitted.

The surface of the fibre

A smooth fibre without scales and with few loose ends gives the softest surface. When the fibres lie evenly and smoothly in the yarn, there are fewer small ends sticking out to be felt against the skin. Bamboo viscose is an example of a fibre with a smooth surface, which is why it feels soft from the start, see the range for men.

How finely the yarn is spun

Fine yarn gives more, thinner threads per centimetre and so a more even surface against the skin. A coarse yarn has thicker threads and more air between them, so the surface becomes more uneven. You feel the difference when you run your hand over the fabric. A finely spun yarn feels smooth and uniform, see bestsellers for men.

How loosely it is knitted

A loose knit leaves more air between the threads, and the fabric feels softer than a tight knit. It gives when you press it, and it follows the body instead of standing away from it. A tight knit is firmer and holds its shape better, but it also feels a little harder. The same goes for socks, see socks for men.

Soft is not the same as weak

Many people think a soft fabric wears out faster. But softness comes from the fibre surface and the knit, while strength comes from the quality and density of the yarn. A soft fabric made from good yarn can last a long time. A hard fabric made from poor yarn, on the other hand, can turn thin and pill quickly, even if it feels sturdy at first.

The first washes make a difference

New clothes often get a little softer over the first ten to twenty washes. The fibres relax, and any residue from production is rinsed out. After that, the change is small. If a garment feels hard when you buy it, it rarely gets much softer later. So notice whether the fabric feels pleasant from the start.

Detergent and drying affect softness

Too much detergent leaves residue that makes fabric stiff. Use the amount that suits the load, and let the machine rinse properly. Harsh drying in strong heat or wind can also make the surface stiff. Dry clothes on a rack indoors instead, and give them a light shake before hanging them up. That way they keep their soft feel.

When softness fades

A fabric that has been soft for a long time can start to feel different as it gets thin. This usually happens after many washes and a lot of use, for example at the elbows or the seat. The fibres wear, and the surface becomes uneven. It is a natural sign of wear and not something you can wash away.

How to feel the difference

Run your hand over the fabric in both directions. A soft surface feels the same both ways, while a coarse one can feel rough against the grain. Squeeze the fabric in your hand and let go. A good, soft fabric falls back calmly without creasing much. Hold it up to the light and check whether the knit is even.

Frequently asked questions

Is soft fabric the same as weak fabric

No. Softness comes from the fibre surface and the knit, while strength comes from the quality and density of the yarn. A soft fabric made from good yarn can last a long time.

Can you make a fabric softer

Partly. Wash without too much detergent and avoid harsh drying. But the basic softness is decided during production.

Does fabric get softer over time

Over the first ten to twenty washes, yes. After that the change is small, until the fabric starts to get thin.