Does bamboo shrink in the wash and what helps
Short answer: Does bamboo shrink in the wash? Viscose can draw in a little, especially at high heat, but it is rarely something you cannot control. Follow the care label, wash gently and let the T-shirt dry flat. Then it usually keeps its shape through the first washes.
Does bamboo shrink in the wash? What to expect
Bamboo in clothing is viscose made from bamboo, and viscose can draw in a little, especially if it is washed or dried at too high a heat. That does not mean the garment is poor, only that you should follow the care instructions. With a little care you can keep the shape much better.
Why fabric can draw in
The fabric is knitted from fibres that are under tension when the garment is made. When it gets wet and warm, the fibres can relax and draw in. That is why a new T-shirt can change a little in the first washes. Browse bamboo T-shirt for women and compare the cuts.
The care label is your best guide
The label shows the temperature and programme the maker recommends for that particular garment. Follow it rather than guessing, because different knits and blends can behave differently. If the label has become unreadable, wash on a gentle programme at a low temperature, and take a photo of the label before you cut it off.
The first three washes
The first wash is when a garment changes most, so choose a gentle programme and a low temperature. After the second and third wash the fabric has usually found its shape, and you can see how it fits. Try the T-shirt on after each wash, so you quickly notice if anything changes.
Temperature and detergent
Wash at a low temperature with a mild detergent, and skip fabric softener if the label advises against it. High heat is the most common reason clothes draw in. Wash the T-shirt with similar colours and fabrics, and do not overfill the machine, so the clothes have room to move.
Drying makes the difference
Let the T-shirt dry flat, or hanging in the shade, and avoid the tumble dryer unless the label allows it. Drying at high heat usually does more harm than the wash itself. So when you ask does bamboo shrink in the wash, the answer often depends more on the drying than the water.
Iron and store gently
If you need to iron the T-shirt, use low heat and iron on the inside. Store it folded rather than hanging, so the fabric is not pulled out of shape at the shoulders. If you also own a bamboo sports bra, you can treat it the same way unless the label says otherwise.
If the T-shirt has shrunk
If the T-shirt has become a little too small, you can lay it down damp and gently pull it into shape, then let it dry flat. It does not always work, but it can help a little. If size is the problem, measure again and go up a size next time. See also bamboo tops for women.
Frequently asked questions
How much can a bamboo T-shirt shrink in the wash?
It depends on the fabric, the cut and how you wash and dry it. Follow the care label and avoid high heat, and you reduce the risk of the T-shirt changing.
Can a bamboo T-shirt go in the tumble dryer?
Only if the care label allows it. Many people prefer to dry clothes flat, because high heat is a common reason clothes draw in.
Should I wash a new T-shirt before wearing it?
Yes, that is a good idea, so you can follow the care instructions from the start. Wash gently at a low temperature and try the T-shirt on afterwards to see how it fits.
