Gildan shirts are a popular everyday wear. They are often made with cotton and poly blends and are lightweight, breathable, and durable. However, one common concern regarding Gildan shirts among consumers is “Do Gildan shirts shrink” after washing.
Read the blog to get your answer and also learn about how much do Gildan shirts shrink. This will help you in making an informed decision about your purchase and will also make your Gildan shirts last long.
Are Gildan Shirts Preshrunk?
You were about to place an order for a Gildan shirt and a thought pop up in your mind, “Are Gildan shirts preshrunk”?
Yes, most Gildan shirts are preshrunk, which means they undergo a process to minimize shrinkage after the initial wash. However, “preshrunk” does not mean they are entirely shrink-proof. Even preshrunk shirts can experience slight shrinkage over time, especially if they are not cared for properly.
The degree of shrinkage can vary depending on the fabric, and the washing and drying methods. It’s important to follow the care instructions provided on the label to maintain the quality of your Gildan shirts.
How Much Do Gildan Shirts Shrink?
Gildan shirts, particularly those made from 100% cotton, can shrink up to 5-7% after the first wash. This is a normal occurrence for cotton garments, even if they are preshrunk.
However, the extent of shrinkage depends on various factors, such as the washing temperature, drying method or how old is your shirt.
Higher temperatures can cause more significant shrinkage, so it’s advisable to wash your favorite Gildan shirts in cold or lukewarm water. In addition, it is also suggested to use a low-heat setting in the dryer or air-dry them to maintain their life for longer.
Factors that Cause Gildan Shirts to Shrink
Before making a purchase for Gildan shirts, you may wonder, “Do Gildan shirts shrink”. Yes, it can shrink due to various factors.
The main factors that cause Gildan shirts to shrink include high washing temperatures, high drying temperatures, and the fabric composition of the shirt.
High Washing Temperatures
Washing Gildan shirts in too hot water might cause the fibers to contract. This will lead to noticeable shrinkage. Therefore, make sure to always wash your Gildan shirts in cold or lukewarm water to prevent shrinkage.
High Drying Temperatures
Drying your Gildan shirts at high temperatures can cause them to shrink more than usual. Hence, make sure to opt for a low-heat setting or air dry to maintain its original size and shape.
Fabric Composition
Many Gildan shirts are made from 100% cotton and cotton is considered prone to shrinkage compared to polyester or cotton-blend fabrics. Polyester, on the other hand, is a synthetic fiber that is less prone to shrinkage.
Therefore, when making a purchase for your favorite Gildan shirt in store or online, make sure to check about its fabric composition. This will help you manage shrinkage and keep your Gildan shirt look great.
Washing Method
Washing method can have a significant impact on how much do Gildan shirts shrink. For minimal shrinkage, use cold or lukewarm water instead of hot water to wash your Gildan shirts. Hot water can cause the cotton fibers to contract and result in shrinkage.
Additionally, avoid scrubbing or wringing during washing, as this can distort the fabric and lead to shrinkage. Make sure to avoid harsh detergents or bleach, as they can weaken the fibers and increase the likelihood of shrinkage.
Drying Technique
Do Gildan shirts shrink because of different dying methods?
Yes, drying methods might also impact the quality of your Gildan shirts. The way you dry your shirt will play an important role in preventing or maximizing shrinkage. High heat in the dryer might cause the cotton fibers to contract. This will result in shrinkage of your shirt.
Make sure to air dry your shirt by hanging it or laying it flat to keep it in the perfect condition and shape. However, if you prefer using a dryer to dry your Gildan shirt, then make sure to opt for the lowest heat setting.
Tip is to avoid over-drying your shirt as excessive heat or frequent drying time can affect its shape and size.
Also, for the best results, remove the shirt from the dryer while it’s still slightly damp and let it finish drying naturally. This method will help maintain its original shape, making it last longer.
Best Ways to Take Care of Gildan Shirts
You have learned the answer to your query, “Do Gildan shirts shrink?” Now, let’s learn the best ways to take care of Gildan shirts.
Proper care can help minimize shrinkage and extend the life of your Gildan shirts. Here are some useful tips that you must follow to take care of your Gildan shirts:
Handwash Your Gildan Shirt
Make sure to handwash your Gildan shirts as it will allow you to control the water temperature, reducing the risk of shrinkage and fabric damage.
Consider Sizing Up
Make sure to consider sizing up when purchasing Gildan shirts if you’re concerned about shrinkage. So, instead of ending up with a shirt that feels too tight, you’ll have a better fit that remains comfortable even if the fabric shrinks slightly. This approach makes sure you maintain a good fit and prolongs the lifespan of your shirts.
Follow the Care Instructions
Make sure to always read and follow the care instructions mentioned on the label of the shirt. These care instructions will help you maintain the quality and fit of your shirts.
Air Drying
If you want to keep your shirts in the same condition for longer, then make sure to air dry them. Air drying is one of the best methods to dry your shirts. This will help minimize the risk of shrinkage that comes from high dryer heat.
Gentle Machine Washing
If you prefer machine washing for your Gildan shirts, use a gentle cycle with cold or lukewarm water to reduce the risk of shrinkage. Also, avoid using any harsh cleaning chemicals on your shirts.
Care Tips for Specific Gildan Shirt Fabrics
Gildan shirts are made with different fabrics from 100% cotton to cotton blend and polyester fabrics. Different fabrics require different care methods to prevent shrinkage and maintain quality of the shirts.
Gildan 100% Cotton
Make sure to wash Gildan 100% cotton shirts in cold water. Also, air dry them to minimize shrinkage and preserve their shape and size for longer period.
Gildan Cotton-Blend
When washing Gildan cotton-blend shirts use lukewarm water and a low-heat setting in the dryer to balance shrinkage control.
Gildan Polyester
Polyester shirts are less prone to shrinkage. However, they should still be washed in cold water and air dried to maintain their shape and size.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
The blog explains your query “Do Gildan shirts shrink” in detail along with answering your question “how much do Gildan shirts shrink”. Different Gildan shirts are made with different fabrics and the shrinkage capacity depends on the type of fabric. Also, there are various other factors that contribute to the shrinkage, such as the washing or drying methods. Understanding the factors that contribute to the shrinkage of Gildan shirts and how to care for them properly can help you maintain their fit and appearance over time.
While Gildan shirts are preshrunk to minimize shrinkage, following the care instructions, such as gentle hand washing and drying practices can help minimize shrinkage. Remember, a little extra care goes a long way in preserving your favorite shirts!
