How to Stop T-Shirts Losing Shape in the Wash
To stop t-shirts losing shape, wash them on a cool cycle, turn them inside out, avoid wringing them and dry them flat or on a hanger. Small habits make a big difference.
Why do tees lose shape?
Heat, spinning and stretching are the main causes. A hot wash and a hot dryer will shrink and warp the fabric. Hanging a wet tee by the shoulders can also stretch it.
How should I wash them?
Keep it gentle:
- Cool or 30 degree wash
- Inside out
- Do not overfill the drum
- Skip fabric softener, which can coat fibres
How should I dry them?
Air drying is best. Shake the tee out, smooth it flat and let it dry on an airer. If you use a dryer, choose a low setting and take it out slightly damp.
How do I protect the neckline?
Do not pull the tee over your head with the neck stretched out, and fold rather than hang when you store it. Stretched necks usually come from hanging on thin hangers or tugging.
Should I fold or hang?
Fold. A folded tee keeps the shoulders and neck in place. We cover storage ideas in how to fold and store hoodies, and the same ideas work for tees.
Does the washing machine setting matter?
Yes. A lower spin speed is kinder, and a shorter cycle means less rubbing. If your machine has a delicate setting, it is a good choice for tees you want to keep looking fresh.
How often should I wash a tee?
After each wear is usually fine, but there is no need to wash it again if you only wore it briefly. Less washing means less wear. Rotate a few tees and each one gets a longer life.
What if the colour fades too?
The same habits help. Cool washes, inside out and away from direct heat will protect both the shape and the colour. If you love a tee, treat it gently and it will pay you back with years of wear instead of a few months.
Can I fix a tee that already shrank?
Sometimes you can ease it back by soaking in lukewarm water and gently stretching it flat to dry. It will not always work, so prevention is the better plan. For more on picking the right size first time, see our t-shirt size guide.
Look after your tees and they will look good for years. Browse our t-shirts if you need a new favourite.
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