How to Wash a 100% Cotton T-Shirt

A classic cotton t shirt feels great to wear — soft, breathable, and comfortable. But 100% cotton can shrink or fade if not washed properly. Whether it’s your favorite everyday tee or a Gildan Ultra cotton t-shirt, knowing how to care for it ensures it stays looking new.

 

Let’s go over the correct way to wash, dry, and preserve your cotton tees for long-lasting comfort and color.

Why Cotton Needs Special Care

Cotton fibers are natural and highly absorbent, which makes them prone to shrinking under heat and friction. The dense structure of heavyweight cotton, such as Gildan Ultra cotton t-shirts, helps resist damage — but proper washing still matters.

 

The key is to keep fibers relaxed, avoid extreme heat, and use mild detergents that don’t strip softness or color.

Step-by-Step: How to Wash a 100% Cotton T-Shirt

1. Turn the shirt inside out.
This protects prints and minimizes surface wear.

 

2. Use cold or lukewarm water.
Hot water is the biggest cause of shrinkage. Cold washing keeps fibers strong and prevents fading.

 

3. Choose a gentle detergent.
Opt for pH-neutral or color-safe detergents. Avoid bleach, which weakens fibers.

 

4. Select a delicate cycle.
Gentle agitation prevents stretching and friction damage.

 

5. Avoid overloading the washer.
T-shirts need room to move — overloading traps heat and causes wrinkles.

Drying Tips to Prevent Shrinkage

  • Air dry whenever possible. Lay flat on a towel or hang indoors away from direct sun.
  • If using a dryer, choose low or no-heat settings. Remove while slightly damp and let it finish drying naturally.
  • Never over-dry. Prolonged heat exposure tightens fibers and reduces elasticity.

Heavy cotton tees like Gildan Ultra cotton t-shirts are pre-shrunk but still benefit from low-heat drying.

Bonus: Keeping Colors Bright

  • Wash dark and light shirts separately.
  • Add ½ cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle once a month — it removes residue and preserves color.
  • Avoid fabric softeners, which can build up and dull brightness.

How Often Should You Wash Cotton Tees?

Wash after 1–2 wears, depending on sweat and use. Overwashing leads to faster wear, so spot clean minor stains when possible.

 

High-quality shirts like the Gildan Ultra cotton t-shirt can last hundreds of washes with proper care.

Looking for long-lasting heavyweight cotton tees?

Check out our best-selling heavy retro cotton t-shirt here.

FAQs About Washing Cotton

Can I wash 100% cotton in hot water?
It’s not recommended — use cold or warm water to prevent shrinking.

 

Do Gildan Ultra cotton t-shirts shrink?
Slightly, even though they’re pre-shrunk. Avoid high dryer heat.

 

Can I iron cotton shirts?
Yes, on medium heat. Always iron inside out.

 

Is it okay to dry cotton in sunlight?
Indirect sunlight is fine, but direct exposure can fade dark colors.

Final Thoughts

Washing a 100 cotton t shirt correctly keeps it soft, durable, and true to size. Cold water, gentle detergent, and low-heat drying are the golden rules.

 

And if you’re wearing a Gildan Ultra cotton t-shirt, you already have an advantage — its heavyweight, pre-shrunk fabric is designed to handle wear while maintaining structure and comfort wash after wash.