When we talk to customers about custom apparel, one of the most common questions we get is: “Will it shrink?”
The short answer? It depends.
The better answer is that you can prevent most shrinking with the right fabric choice and a little care at home. Here’s what to know if you want your custom t-shirts to keep their shape and size for more than one wear. This guide on How to Keep Your Custom T-Shirts from Shrinking will provide valuable insights.
Fabric Types: What Shrinks and What Doesn’t
The type of fabric you choose plays a huge role in whether your shirt will shrink, and how much. Here’s a breakdown of common t-shirt materials and what you can expect from each:
100% Cotton
Soft, breathable and super popular. Cotton is comfortable to wear but also the most likely to shrink, especially if it’s not preshrunk.
- Best for: everyday wear, band tees, merch
- Shrink factor: moderate to high, especially with hot water or a hot dryer
Cotton/Polyester Blends
A mix of cotton and polyester helps reduce shrinkage while still keeping a soft feel. These shirts hold their shape better in the wash and work well for regular wear.
- Best for: uniforms, workwear, frequent washes
- Shrink factor: low
100% Polyester
Polyester doesn’t shrink. It’s often used in athletic and performance gear thanks to its moisture-wicking properties, though it has a different feel than cotton.
- Best for: sports, outdoor events, high-activity use
- Shrink factor: basically none, but can still be damaged by high heat
Pre-Shrunk Cotton
Some 100% cotton tees are labeled “pre-shrunk,” meaning most of the shrinking already happened before printing.
- Best for: anyone who wants the feel of cotton without as much worry
- Shrink factor: lower, but not zero
Washing Tips: Gentle is Better
Once you’ve got the right fabric, the next step is making sure it stays the size it started. Here’s how:
- Use cold water. Hot water tightens the fibers and leads to more shrinkage.
- Wash on a gentle cycle. It’s easier on the fabric (and the print).
- Turn your shirts inside out. This helps preserve the design and reduces fading.
Drying Tips: Where Most Shrinkage Happens
Dryers are the most common cause of shrinkage, especially for cotton and blends. Here’s how to avoid it:
- Hang dry when you can. Air drying is the best way to maintain size and shape.
- If you use a dryer, choose low heat. High heat = tighter fibers = smaller shirts.
- Don’t overdry. Pull your shirt out when it’s just slightly damp and let it finish drying flat or on a rack.
Choose the Right Shirt Up Front
Shrinkage prevention starts with the order itself. If you’re working with us and want to avoid surprises after wash day, let us know how the shirts will be used.
We’ll help you pick the right fabric blend, fit and finish to make sure your shirts still fit the way you intended, even after a few laundry cycles.