Why clothes feel different after the first wash
Short answer: Two things happen in the first wash. The finish from manufacturing washes out, and the fibres contract slightly. The fabric becomes softer, and the garment gets a little smaller, especially in length.
The finish disappears
New fabric is often treated so it looks smooth and full in the shop and holds its shape in transit. This treatment is called a finish, and it washes out in the first or second wash. What remains is the fabric's true character, which is often softer and more supple. Wash new clothes before wearing them. See washing and care.
The fibres contract
Viscose fibres are stretched during manufacturing and pull back slightly on their first contact with heat and moisture. Most of the shrinkage happens the first time, and then the fabric settles. On jersey it is mainly the length that changes, while the width holds better. This is normal and not a sign of poor quality.
Why it gets softer
Without the finish, the fibres lie more freely and feel softer against the skin. The fabric drapes more naturally and moves with the body instead of standing stiff. It is an improvement and not wear, even if the garment looks a little different from the shop. Many people find clothes only feel really comfortable after a few washes. See bamboo T-shirts for men.
Colour can change slightly
Dark colours may release some dye in the first washes, as excess dye is rinsed out. Wash new dark clothes on their own or with similar colours the first few times. That stops light garments from picking up a grey tint. After a few washes the colour is stable and no longer runs.
Towels show it most
New towels absorb poorly until the finish is gone. They can feel smooth and almost water repellent the first time you use them. Two washes without fabric softener make them usable, as the treatment rinses out and the fibres open up. Skip softener afterwards too, since it leaves a new coating. See bamboo towels.
Temperature and drying
The first wash matters most for how much a garment shrinks. Wash according to the label, usually at 40 degrees, and avoid a very hot wash the first time. Tumble drying shrinks a garment more than line drying. If you want to keep the original length, hang it up, especially early on.
Buy with this in mind
If you are between two sizes and the garment will be tumble dried, choose the larger one. That leaves room for the slight shrinkage in the first wash, and the garment ends up fitting as it should. If you hang your laundry, you can often stay in the smaller size. See bamboo underwear for men.
What is not normal
A garment that shrinks a whole size or more is not normal. The same goes for holes, seams coming apart or fabric that pills heavily after the first wash. Always check that you followed the care label, and contact the shop if the garment has changed a lot despite being washed correctly.
A good first wash
Turn the garment inside out, close zips and buttons, and wash with similar colours at the temperature on the label. Use a mild dose of detergent and no softener. Gently pull the garment into shape while damp and let it dry flat or on a hanger. That gives your clothes the best start.
Frequently asked questions
Why do clothes get softer after the first wash?
Because the finish from manufacturing washes out and the fibres lie more freely afterwards. The fabric drapes more naturally and therefore feels softer against the skin.
How much does it shrink the first time?
Typically a few percent, mostly in length on jersey. Most of the shrinkage happens in the first wash, and after that the garment keeps its shape with correct care.
Why do new towels absorb poorly?
Because of the finish from manufacturing. Two washes without fabric softener remove it, so the fibres open up and the towel can absorb water properly.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
