Turn clothes inside out in the wash, why and when
Short answer: When you wash clothes inside out, you protect the surface from rubbing and wear, and colours and prints often stay nicer. This applies especially to thin fabrics, dark colours and clothes with prints, but always follow the care label.
What happens when you turn the clothes
When clothes are turned inside out, the nice outer side lies on the inside and does not rub directly against the drum and other laundry. That reduces wear on the surface, so the fabric often looks better for longer. It applies to T-shirts and socks alike, and you can see bamboo T-shirts for men in the range.
When it makes the most difference
Turning inside out makes the most difference with thin and soft fabrics, dark colours and clothes with a print or embroidery on the front. This is where the surface is most exposed to rubbing and so to going dull, fuzzy or worn. With sturdy and rough fabrics the difference is often smaller.
What to think about with zips and buttons
Close zips and buttons before washing so they do not catch on other laundry or tug at the fabric. When you turn clothes inside out, you also protect the nice side from metal parts. Check the pockets so there is no paper or small items that can stick to the fabric.
Fluff and small pills
Pills form when the fibres on the surface rub against each other, and clothes turned inside out have less rubbing on the side you see. That does not mean pills disappear completely, but they often come later. Use a gentle programme and do not overfill the machine, so the laundry can move freely.
How to do it with socks and underwear
Socks and underwear are small and can easily catch or tear in the wash. Turn them inside out and use a wash bag if you like, so they do not disappear. It protects both the fabric and the seams and makes it easier to keep pairs together. See also bamboo socks for men and bamboo underpants for men.
Clothes you should not turn
Some delicate fabrics or clothes with special details may have a different instruction on the label, and then the label always comes first. Also read whether the clothes should be washed on a gentle programme or at a low temperature. If you are unsure, wash a single piece first and see how it reacts.
Drying and finishing
Hang clothes to dry inside out if the sun shines directly on them, since strong light can fade the colours. Avoid high heat in the tumble dryer and take the clothes out before they are completely dry if you want to avoid creases. Turn them right way round again before you put them in the wardrobe.
A simple habit
Make it a fixed habit to turn the clothes as you put them in the machine, and it will happen by itself. It takes only a few seconds per piece, and small habits like this can help clothes look good for longer. It costs nothing and needs no extra equipment.
Frequently asked questions
Should all clothes be washed inside out?
No, but it is a good habit for thin fabrics, dark colours and clothes with prints. Always follow the care label first.
Does it stop pilling completely?
No, but it reduces rubbing on the side you see, so pills often appear later. A gentle programme and a machine that is not too full also help.
Does it apply to socks and underwear too?
Yes, socks and underwear can be turned and put in a wash bag so they do not tear or disappear in the machine.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
