Quick answer
Wash your sweatshirt in cold water on a gentle cycle and air dry it flat to prevent shrinking. Avoid high heat and harsh detergents.
Why cotton sweatshirts shrink
Cotton fibers naturally contract when exposed to high heat or agitation. This is especially true for pure cotton sweatshirts like the Sportwear/365 Sweatshirt, which is made of super light and elastic fabric. Understanding this helps you choose the right wash and dry methods to maintain the fit.
Step-by-step sweatshirt care
- Step 1: Check the care label: Read the tag inside your sweatshirt for specific washing instructions. Most cotton sweatshirts recommend cold water and a gentle cycle. Ignore the label and you risk shrinking the fabric.
- Step 2: Turn the sweatshirt inside out: Turning it inside out protects the outer surface from friction and pilling. It also helps prevent the fabric from snagging on other items.
- Step 3: Use cold water and gentle detergent: Fill the machine with cold water and add a mild detergent. Avoid bleach or fabric softeners, which can break down cotton fibers over time. Hot water is the main cause of shrinkage.
- Step 4: Select a gentle or delicate cycle: Set the machine to a gentle or delicate cycle with low spin speed. This reduces agitation that can distort the fabric shape. A heavy-duty cycle can stretch or shrink the sweatshirt unevenly.
- Step 5: Air dry flat, never in the dryer: Lay the sweatshirt flat on a clean towel or drying rack away from direct sunlight. Reshape it gently while damp. Do not use a clothes dryer, as high heat causes permanent shrinkage. If you must use a dryer, choose the lowest heat setting and remove the sweatshirt while still slightly damp.
Product spotlight
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Sportwear/365 Sweatshirt: Made of super light and elastic pure cotton fabric that adapts perfectly to the body. This fabric is comfortable but still prone to shrinking if washed in hot water or dried on high heat, so gentle care is essential.
Sportwear/365 Sweatshirt
