Long-sleeved T-shirts whose sleeves end up too short
Short answer: A long-sleeved T-shirt for women gets short in the sleeves when the sleeve length does not suit your arms, when the fabric shrinks in the wash, or when you raise your arms. It can be avoided with the right measurements and care. Here is what to check.
Measure your arms first
Measure your arm length from the shoulder to the wrist with a soft tape measure. Compare the measurement with the size guide for the long-sleeved T-shirt you are considering. If you have long arms, choose a model with longer sleeves, and if you have short ones, the standard length may be fine. It is the measurement and not the size alone that decides.
The sleeves should reach the wrist
Test that the sleeve reaches the wrist when you stand with your arms hanging. Then raise your arms and see whether the sleeve creeps up over the forearm. If it does, it is too short. A slightly too long sleeve is better than one that is too short, because it can be pushed up. See women's long-sleeved bamboo T-shirt.
Long-sleeved T-shirts and shrinking
Shrinking is a common reason for short sleeves. Bamboo clothing is viscose made from bamboo, and viscose can shrink if it is washed hot or dried in a tumble dryer. Follow the care label and choose a low temperature. Let the T-shirt air dry so the sleeves keep their length.
Sometimes it is the cut
Not all cuts are made for long arms. Some models have narrow sleeves or a short shoulder that pulls the sleeve up. Try another model or a size up if you always experience short sleeves. Cuts differ from brand to brand, so compare the measurements.
The shoulder seam and movement
If the shoulder seam sits too high or too tight, it pulls the sleeve up when you move. Notice whether the seam lies at the edge of the shoulder and whether you can raise your arms without pulling on the T-shirt. A soft shoulder seam gives more freedom of movement and fewer short sleeves.
The stretch in the fabric
A fabric with stretch can follow your movements, but it can also pull together at the sleeves when you raise your arms. Read the material label to see whether there is elastane in it, and move your arms to see how the sleeve reacts.
Layer on layer
When you use a long-sleeved T-shirt as a first layer under a jumper, the sleeve can be pushed up as you pull the jumper on. Pull it down again or choose a slightly longer sleeve. It helps if you combine it with bamboo sweatwear or other soft, slippery layers.
Care so the sleeves keep their length
Wash by the care label, turn the T-shirt inside out and avoid high heat. Wash it with clothes of the same kind, such as your other basic underwear like bamboo panties, so the programme suits everything. Air drying keeps the length best and is gentle on the fabric.
Frequently asked questions
Why do the sleeves on my long-sleeved T-shirt get short
It may be because the sleeve length does not suit your arms, the fabric has shrunk in the wash, or the cut pulls the sleeve up when you raise your arms. Measure your arms and follow the care label.
Can a long-sleeved T-shirt shrink in the sleeves
Yes, if viscose is washed hot or dried in a tumble dryer, it can shrink. Wash at a low temperature, follow the care label and let it air dry to keep the length.
How do I measure my arm length
Measure from the edge of the shoulder to the wrist with a soft tape measure while your arm hangs down. Compare with the size guide for the model you want to buy.
