When is a T-shirt worn out

Short answer: A T-shirt is worn out when the neckline no longer holds its shape, when the fabric has become thin or see through, or when there are holes and stains that do not wash out.

The neckline usually goes first

The rib at the neck loses its tension after many trips over the head. When the edge starts to ripple or stand away from the neck, the T-shirt looks worn, however neat the rest is. It is often the first sign that it is used up. Pull it gently over your head to spare the rib. See new styles in men's bestsellers.

Thin fabric at elbows and stomach

Hold the T-shirt up to the light. If there are lighter areas, the fabric has worn thin. This usually happens at the stomach, where belts and table edges rub, and at the elbows on long sleeved styles. Thin fabric tears more easily and can turn see through when it is light. Top up from bamboo sweatwear.

Holes and stains

Small holes often appear at seams and where a belt sits. They can be mended, but it usually shows. Stains that do not go after a few washes are another sign. Yellow marks under the arms come from sweat and deodorant, and they often stick in the fibres. On a smart T-shirt, that is enough reason to replace it.

The shape is lost

A T-shirt can also lose its shape. It gets longer and narrower, the side seams twist, or the shoulders droop. This is often caused by hot washes and the tumble dryer, which pull the fibres out of line. Compare it with a new one of the same style. If the difference is clear, it no longer fits as it should.

Move worn ones down a category

A T-shirt that can no longer be worn to work can be used at home or in the garden for a long time. It can also become a sleep shirt or a workout top for rough days. In the end it can be cut into cloths. That way you get long use from it before it is finished. See the rest of the men's range.

Pilling is not wear

Pilling can make a T-shirt look older than it is. It forms where the fabric rubs, such as under the arms or against a shoulder bag. Pills can be removed in a minute with a fabric shaver. Afterwards the fabric looks neat again, so pilling alone is not a sign that the T-shirt is worn out.

How to make it last

Wash at 30 or 40 degrees inside out and let the T-shirt air dry. Avoid the tumble dryer, which is hardest on the fibres and the neckline. Do not hang it to dry by the neck; lay it flat or use a hanger. Wear several T-shirts in rotation so each one is washed less often. That gives them a longer life.

How long it lasts

How long a T-shirt lasts depends on quality, washing and how often it is worn. With weekly wear, a T-shirt typically lasts one to three years before the neckline or fabric shows clear wear. Worn every day, it goes faster. With several in rotation and gentle washing, you can stretch its life towards the longer end.

Frequently asked questions

Can holes be mended

Small holes can be sewn, but it shows. On an everyday T-shirt you wear at home, that can be perfectly fine and give it a few more years.

How long does a T-shirt last

One to three years with weekly wear, depending on quality and washing. Gentle washing and wearing in rotation stretch its life.

Can pilling make a T-shirt look worn

Yes, but pills can be removed in a minute with a fabric shaver. Afterwards the fabric looks neat again, so pilling alone is not wear.