Stretch and release as a quick test

Short answer: Pull the fabric across and let go. If it springs back, the garment will hold its shape. If it stays stretched, the garment will give in wear.

How to do the test

Take hold of the fabric with both hands about ten centimetres apart and pull moderately. Let go and see what happens within a second. It is a test you can do in a shop without anyone noticing.

What the two outcomes mean

If the fabric springs back to its original width, there is elastane in it and the garment returns to shape after a day. If it gets wider and stays that way, the garment will give. See bamboo underwear for women.

Where it matters most

In underwear, leggings, socks and anything close fitting. In loose garments and nightwear it matters far less. See bamboo leggings and bamboo nightwear for women.

Frequently asked questions

Does a lack of stretch mean poor quality

No. It just means the garment should be loose rather than close fitting.

Can you see elastane on the label

Yes, it is stated in percent. Two to five percent is common in underwear.

How hard should you pull

Moderately. The test should show what daily wear does, not what a hard yank does.