T-shirts are the most comfortable and versatile garment. You can never go wrong with a good t-shirt. However, it’s a task to keep these wardrobe essentials fresh and good for a long time as they often lose their elasticity and look worn out after going through several wash cycles. Here’s expert advice on how to care for your favourite t-shirt :
Before Wash -
Some t-shirts include dyes or patterns that may bleed during washing therefore it’s recommended to wash whites and brightly coloured t-shirts separately. T-shirts should be rinsed and ironed inside out to avoid fabric and print fading or damage. Try air drying t-shirts for 24 hours to get rid of odour instead of washing them after every wear to help increase their lifespan.
Washing -
When washing a t-shirt, there are several things that you need to keep in mind. Most t-shirts are made of cotton or cotton blends and are prone to over-stretching and colour fading. It is best to use cold or lukewarm water while running the t-shirts through the laundry.
Drying -
The shape, colour, and print of a t-shirt can all be damaged by using a dryer. To extend the life of your t-shirts, air dry them as much as possible. Coloured tee shirts should never be dried in direct sunlight because the colour may fade.
Ironing -
As mentioned earlier, overheating can damage a t-shirt. Iron the t-shirt at medium to low heat carefully and avoid exposing prints and embroideries to direct heat. Instead, place a cloth on the prints while ironing.
Cleaning agents and Detergents -
Cleaning agents like fabric softeners and conditioners are harmful to the fabric as well as to your health. These cleaning agents form a chemical coating on clothes and damage their water absorbent property and breathability. Consider using DIY fabric softeners for the longer durability of a t-shirt. It is always a good practice to refer to the wash care labels while running your t-shirt through the laundry cycle.
