Cotton T-Shirts are a staple in most people’s wardrobes. They are comfortable, versatile, and can be worn on almost any occasion. However, as with any clothing item, they can wear out over time if not properly cared for. In this blog post, we will explore some tips and tricks on how to care for your cotton T-Shirt so that it lasts longer. Whether you are a fashion enthusiast or just looking to make your clothes last longer, this post is for you. So, let’s dive in and learn how to care for your cotton T-Shirt!
We have provided some easy-to-follow instructions on the proper cleaning and maintenance of a T-Shirt made entirely from cotton. By adhering to the 9 guidelines listed below, you can considerably delay the natural wear and tear of your T-Shirts, leading to an extended lifespan for them.
How to clean and care for a T-Shirt so it lasts longer
- Wash less
- Wash with similar colors
- Wash cold
- Wash (and dry) inside out
- Use the right (amount of) detergents
- Do not tumble dry
- Iron on reverse
- Store correctly
- Treat stains immediately
1. Wash less
To ensure the longevity and durability of your 100% Cotton T-Shirt, it is advisable to follow the principle of “less is more” when it comes to laundry. Despite being sturdy, frequent washing can cause stress and harm to the natural fibers of the cotton, resulting in faster aging and fading. Therefore, washing only when necessary is a vital tip to extend the life of your beloved T-Shirt. Moreover, each wash has an environmental impact, in terms of water and energy consumption. By reducing the frequency of washing, you can also lower your personal carbon footprint and water usage. In many Western societies, people tend to wash their clothes out of habit, rather than actual need. Thus, washing your garments only when they are dirty is not unhygienic but rather a sustainable practice that contributes to a healthier relationship with the environment.
2. Wash with similar colors
To keep your white summer T-shirts looking fresh and bright, it’s recommended to wash them with other light colors. Washing whites with brighter colors reduces the risk of them becoming grey or picking up colors from other garments, like pink. It’s generally safe to wash darker colors together, especially if they have been washed a few times before. Sorting your laundry by fabric types can also improve washing results, as sportswear and workwear may require different care than delicate summer shirts. If you’re unsure about how to wash a new item, check the care label for guidance.
3. Wash cold
If you have a 100% Cotton T-Shirt, it is best to avoid high temperatures during washing as this can cause it to shrink. Although detergents are more effective at higher temperatures, it is important to find the right balance between temperature and effective cleaning. While darker-colored T-Shirts can be washed in cold water, it is recommended to wash Ausouls’s Perfect White T-Shirt at 30 degrees or 40 degrees if necessary. This will help maintain the T-Shirt’s crisp appearance for a longer period and reduce the risk of unwanted colorization, such as yellowish marks under the armpits. Moreover, washing at lower temperatures is also beneficial for the environment and can help reduce energy consumption by up to 35%.
4. Wash (and dry) inside out
To minimize the risk of fuzziness and pilling of natural cotton, it is recommended to wash T-Shirts inside out. This way, any abrasion that occurs happens on the inner side of the shirt, leaving the outer visual side unaffected. Similarly, drying T-Shirts inside out can help prevent potential fading on the inner side of the garment, while keeping the outer surface intact.
>> Read more: 23 Hottest T-Shirt Design Trends for Print-on-Demand
5. Use the right (amount of) detergent
There are currently a variety of eco-friendly detergents available that use natural ingredients instead of oil-based chemicals. However, it’s important to keep in mind that even these “green” detergents can still contribute to water pollution and could potentially damage clothing if used in excess due to their numerous ingredient groups. While there is no completely green option available, it’s important to remember that adding more detergent does not necessarily result in cleaner clothes. Using less detergent is recommended, especially when washing smaller loads or less soiled clothing. Additionally, those living in areas with soft water may require even less detergent.
6. Do not tumble dry
It is important to note that cotton items will naturally shrink during the drying process. To decrease the risk of shrinkage, it is recommended to avoid using a tumble dryer and instead air-dry the garment. Hanging the T-Shirt is the preferred method of drying to avoid creases and stretching. When air-drying, it is essential to avoid direct sunlight exposure to prevent colors from fading. It is also important to remember that cotton products do not tolerate high heat.
By avoiding the use of a tumble dryer, not only will the T-Shirt’s durability be improved, but there will also be a significant positive impact on the environment. Tumble dryers consume up to five times more energy than standard washing machines, which means that avoiding them can substantially reduce a household’s carbon footprint.
7. Iron on reverse
Depending on the type of fabric used for a T-Shirt, cotton may be more or less susceptible to wrinkling and creasing. Nevertheless, taking proper care of your T-Shirts when removing them from the washing machine can help reduce creasing. You can gently stretch or shake each garment to restore its shape. It is important to be cautious around the neckline and shoulders to avoid overstretching and distorting the T-Shirt’s shape. If your washing machine has a “reduce creases” setting, you can use it to prevent wrinkles. Additionally, reducing the spinning cycle of your washing program can further minimize creasing, but this will leave your T-Shirt slightly moister.
When ironing a T-Shirt, it is best to refer to the garment care label to determine the appropriate temperature setting. The number of dots on the iron symbol corresponds to the level of heat that can be used. For instance, Ausouls’s Perfect T-Shirt can be ironed at medium heat (two dots).
We suggest ironing the T-Shirt inside out and using the steam function on your iron. Adding moisture to cotton fabrics before ironing will make the fibers smoother and the garment easier to flatten. For a more delicate approach to your T-Shirt, we recommend using a steamer instead of a traditional iron for an even better appearance.
8. Store your T-Shirts correctly
It is recommended to store your T-Shirts folded and placed on a flat surface to prevent stretching, especially for knitted fabrics like the Single Jersey Knit of The Perfect T-Shirt. However, if you insist on hanging them, it is suggested to use wide hangers to distribute the weight evenly. When hanging, be sure to insert the hanger from the bottom to avoid over-stretching the neckline. Lastly, to prevent color fading, it is advisable to keep them away from sunlight during storage.
9. Treat stains immediately
When an emergency arises and you get a stain on a particular area of your T-shirt, the first and most crucial rule is to take care of the stain immediately. Natural materials such as cotton or linen are excellent at absorbing liquids like red wine or tomato sauce. The sooner you begin to remove the stain, the easier it will be to altogether remove it from the fabric. Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all detergent or stain remover that can effectively eliminate all types of substances. Research has shown that the more effective a stain remover is, the more aggressive it is to the color of a garment. As a preliminary step, we recommend rinsing the stain with warm water and then adding some mild detergent or soap.
For stubborn stains, you can use a commercial stain remover, but avoid using bleach solutions for colored cotton garments. The bleach may remove the color from the fabric and leave a light mark.
In conclusion, taking care of your cotton T-shirts properly can significantly increase their lifespan. Following these simple steps from Ausouls can help your T-shirts stay soft, bright, and comfortable for years to come. Remember to wash them in cold water, avoid using harsh chemicals, and air dry them whenever possible. With the right care, your Cotton T-shirts can continue to be a staple in your wardrobe for many seasons to come.
>> Read more: Master the Art of Washing T-Shirts and Keep Them Looking New
