The neckline that goes slack
Short answer: The neckline goes slack when the t-shirt is pulled over the head many times and when it is tumble dried. The rib loses its grip, and once that has happened it rarely comes fully back.
How it wears
Every time the t-shirt is pulled over your head, the rib at the neck stretches. That is normal wear and happens to all t-shirts over time. But heat and rough handling speed it up. Take the t-shirt off by lifting it at the back rather than pulling at the neckline.
Tumble dryer
Heat from the tumble dryer ruins the elastic in the rib faster than anything else. The edge loses its spring and turns wavy. Air dry your t-shirts, even when you are in a hurry. The remaining rules are in the washing guide.
Do not hang it by the neck
Never hang the t-shirt by the neckline, whether on a hook or the washing line. The weight pulls the rib out, especially when the t-shirt is wet. Use a hanger inserted from below, or lay the t-shirt flat to dry.
Can it be fixed
A wash at 40 degrees and drying flat can give a little back, because the fibres contract slightly in the water. Gently ease the neckline into place while the t-shirt is damp. If the rib is fully stretched, it will not help, and the edge is worn out.
Turn it inside out
If the t-shirt is washed inside out, the edge wears less, because it does not rub against the drum and other clothes in the same way. Also close zips on other clothes in the wash, so they do not catch on the rib. Small habits give a longer life.
Spin speed
A high spin twists the fabric hard, and the neckline is one of the places that suffers. Choose a moderate spin so the t-shirt is not wrung too much. It dries a little more slowly, but the edge lasts better. Shake the t-shirt out before laying it to dry.
See the range
A t-shirt with a firm rib keeps its shape longest when it is treated right. Wash at 40 degrees, air dry and take it off without pulling at the neck. See the basics in bamboo t-shirts for men.
See also
The neckline is only one part of how a t-shirt keeps its shape. Length, width and shoulders are also affected by washing and drying. More on the topic in how your t-shirts keep their shape.
When the t-shirt is worn out
A slack neckline is often the first sign that the t-shirt is nearing its end. If the fabric has also become thin or started pilling, it is time to replace it. A t-shirt with a loose neck can still be worn at home or under a jumper.
In short
Take the t-shirt off without pulling at the neck, avoid the tumble dryer and never hang it by the edge. Then the rib lasts as long as possible. Once the damage is done, a wash and drying flat can give a little back, but a fully stretched edge will not be like new.
Frequently asked questions
Why does the neckline go slack?
From wear when the t-shirt is pulled over the head, and from tumble dryer heat. Both make the rib lose its grip, so the edge turns wavy and loose.
Can it be tightened again?
A wash at 40 degrees and drying flat can give a little back if you ease the edge into place while the t-shirt is damp. If the rib is fully stretched, it will not help.
How do I make the neckline last longer?
Take the t-shirt off by lifting it at the back, wash it inside out and let it air dry. Never hang it by the neckline, not even when it is dry.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
