What it means to turn clothes inside out
Short answer: Turning clothes inside out means flipping them so the inside faces outward, and it is often done before washing to protect the surface. It reduces rubbing against other laundry and the drum, and it can help keep colours and avoid pilling.
What turning inside out means
When you turn a garment inside out, you pull it round so the seams and the inside lie on the outside. It is a simple way to protect the side you show off, and it takes only a few seconds before the clothes go into the machine.
Why it protects the surface
During washing, clothes rub against each other and against the drum of the machine, and that wears the outer side most. When the inside faces out, it takes most of the knocks, so the side you look at stays smoother and smarter through many washes.
Pilling and wear on soft fabrics
Soft knits and thin cuts are more prone to pilling when they rub against other clothes. By turning them inside out you can reduce the risk of small balls, and it is a good habit for everything from T-shirts to underwear and socks.
Colours, prints and details
Dark colours and prints wear less when they do not rub directly on other clothes, and that can help the colours hold. Also turn clothes with prints, embroidery or beads, so the details do not pull or catch in the machine.
Which clothes it suits
It suits most machine-washable clothes, especially T-shirts, tops, leggings, underwear and socks. You can browse the full bamboo range for women, and always check the label for what applies to your own garment.
When you should not turn clothes
Some garments should not be turned if the label says so or if they have zips and trims that should be protected another way. Use a laundry net instead and close zips so they do not catch on other clothes.
How to do it in practice
Turn the clothes before putting them in the machine and turn them back when they are dry, so you do not forget which side is which. Put socks and small items in a net and use a gentle programme if the label recommends it. You can see the brand JBS in the range.
Washing and care, so the clothes keep their shape
Follow the care label and avoid high heat and a hard spin. Hang the clothes to dry and do not leave wet laundry lying together, so it does not wear or pick up a smell, and combine a women's long-sleeved bamboo T-shirt with other clothes if you like.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to turn all clothes inside out?
No, but it helps with many things, especially soft fabrics, prints and dark colours, and you should always follow the label of each garment.
Does it help against pilling?
Yes, it can reduce the risk of pilling because the outer side rubs less on other clothes, but it does not remove pilling that is already there.
Should I turn the clothes back after drying?
Yes, turn them right way round and check that seams and labels sit as they should, so they are ready to wear.
