Cotton is an incredibly comfortable fabric for shirts, but its shrinkage potential can be frustrating. Many people swear by 100% cotton shirts for their breathability and soft texture. However, shrinking is a legitimate concern, especially in hotter washes and dryer cycles.
While 100% cotton shirts are prone to shrinking, it’s not a dealbreaker if you’re willing to care for them properly. As per Hownest, here are some points to consider when deciding if you truly need 100% non-shrink cotton or if blended shirts will also work well for you.
Washing Routines Matter
How often do you wash at hot temperatures? Cold water washes and air drying is gentler on cotton and minimizes shrinkage risk. Hot water and high heat from the dryer tends to trigger more size changes. If you stick to lower temperature washing, shrinkage may not be a major problem.
Fit Preferences
Do you like a looser, roomier shirt fit or a more tailored one? Cotton shrinks the most lengthwise which affects shirts hanging out below the waistband. If you prefer a more form-fitting look, shrunk cotton could work to your advantage. Whereas boxier fits require more shrink-resistant fabrics.
Willing to Sew?
Shrinkage is often uneven across a shirt. Taking some quick measurements pre- and post-wash allows tailoring any unevenness. Hemming rolled-up sleeves is an easy fix. Basic sewing skills can remedy minor changes rather than discarding otherwise nice cotton shirts.
Affordability Matters
100% cotton shirts are usually cheaper than blended versions less prone to shrinking. If your budget is tight, you may be willing to replace shrunken cotton over paying more upfront for non-shrink options. Consider the long-term costs.
Fabric Blends Help
Mixing cotton with synthetic fibers like polyester prevents much of the shrinking since the synthetic fibers hold their shape better. Blends are a good compromise if occasional shrinking is unacceptable.
The Bottom Line
For most wearers, 100% cotton shirts can still work wonderfully with proper care. But for inconsistent washing habits or needing predictable sizing over time, blended options that don’t shrink provide hassle-free wearing. Consider your needs and preferences—either choice can get the job done!
