Gildan shirts are popular for their comfort and affordability, but do they shrink after washing? If you’ve ever wondered about the longevity of your Gildan shirt or how to prevent it from shrinking, here’s what you need to know.
Gildan shirts can shrink, but with proper care, you can minimize the risk and keep them fitting well for a long time.
Whether you’re buying Gildan shirts for casual wear or bulk printing, it’s important to understand how washing and drying affect them. Let’s explore the facts about Gildan shirt shrinkage and how to ensure your shirts stay in great shape.
Does Gildan shirt shrink?
Gildan shirts can shrink, but the amount of shrinkage varies depending on the fabric blend and how you care for them.
Typically, a Gildan shirt made from 100% cotton will shrink about 3-5% after the first wash, especially when exposed to high heat. However, if you follow the care instructions, you can prevent significant shrinkage. Washing in cold water and air-drying your shirts can help reduce the chance of shrinkage. In some cases, shirts made from cotton blends or pre-shrunk fabrics might shrink less or not at all.
Which Gildan shirt doesn’t shrink?
If you’re concerned about shrinkage, Gildan offers options that are less prone to shrinking. Shirts that feature a cotton/polyester blend or are pre-shrunk are great choices.
Gildan shirts made from cotton/polyester blends or those labeled "pre-shrunk" tend to shrink less, making them ideal for people looking to avoid size changes after washing.
For example, the Gildan DryBlend series, which is a cotton/polyester blend, is known for retaining its shape and size even after multiple washes. Similarly, Gildan shirts that are pre-shrunk are designed to minimize shrinkage. Pre-shrunk fabrics undergo a process that tightens the fibers before the shirt is made, so they don’t shrink much afterward.
By selecting these shirts, you can avoid much of the shrinkage that commonly affects 100% cotton shirts. This makes them a great option for anyone looking for a more stable fit after washing.
Are Gildan shirts true to size?
Gildan shirts generally run true to size, but the fit can vary slightly depending on the style and fabric. For example, Gildan’s standard fit might feel slightly looser than a slim fit style. Additionally, after washing, you may notice that the shirt fits a little more snugly due to minor shrinkage.
Gildan shirts are typically true to size, though you may notice some shrinkage in 100% cotton styles, especially after the first wash.
If you’re in between sizes or prefer a looser fit, it’s advisable to size up, particularly with cotton shirts, to account for any shrinkage. Always check the product’s specific measurements before purchasing, as Gildan provides sizing charts that help you find the best fit for your body type.
Does 100% heavy cotton shrink?
Yes, heavy cotton, such as that used in some Gildan shirts, can shrink, though it may shrink less than lighter cotton fabrics. Heavy cotton is typically thicker and denser, so while it still experiences shrinkage, the effect is often less dramatic compared to thinner cotton shirts.
100% heavy cotton shirts, including those from Gildan, will shrink, but the shrinkage may be less noticeable due to the fabric’s thickness.
Heavy cotton shirts, like Gildan’s Ultra Cotton line, may shrink slightly, but the thicker fabric tends to hold its shape better. However, you should still expect some shrinkage, typically around 3-5%, depending on washing conditions. To minimize shrinkage, wash these shirts in cold water and dry them on a low heat setting.
Even though the shrinkage in heavy cotton shirts is often less noticeable, following the proper care guidelines can help keep your shirt from shrinking too much. Avoid hot water or high-heat drying to maintain the best fit.
Conclusion
Gildan shirts do shrink, especially those made from 100% cotton, but with the right care, you can minimize the effects. If you’re looking for a shirt that won’t shrink as much, opt for a cotton/polyester blend or a pre-shrunk option. Always follow proper washing and drying instructions to ensure your Gildan shirt stays comfortable and fitting as intended.
