When looking for a new t-shirt, one of the decisions you must make is what type of cotton the shirt is made from. Ringspun cotton is a popular choice because it is soft and durable.
But will 100 ringspun cotton shrink? The answer is yes if exposed to hot water or a hot drier. 100% ringspun cotton will shrink less than a blend and be softer and more durable.
Let’s look at factors that affect how much the cotton shirt will shrink. And learn how to prevent shrinkage.
About Ringspun Cotton
Ringspun cotton is made by twisting and thinning the cotton fibers before they are spun into yarn. It goes through a process whereby it is turned using ring frames.
100% ringspun cotton means the fabric is made entirely from ringspun cotton yarn.
Fabric made up of it is usually considered superior to cotton produced through other processes because the finished product is noticeably finer, softer, and more durable.
Will 100 Ringspun Cotton Shrink?
Generally speaking, 100% cotton will shrink more than a blended fabric like 50/50 or even 80/20 cotton-polyester blend. The reason is that the shrinking process is averaged out when two different types of cloth are blended. That said, there can be significant variations from garment to garment, even within the same fabric, so always follow the care instructions that come with your clothes.
If you want to minimize shrinking as much as possible, then I would recommend washing and drying your clothes in cool or warm water and air-
The Shrinkage
It depends on the cotton shrinkage percentage. A standard industrial shrinkage percentage is 3%. So if you have a 100-yard bolt of fabric, it will be 97 yards after it’s been washed and dried.
Some cotton, like Pima or Egyptian cotton, have a lower shrinkage percentage because they’re made from long fibers. So if you’re looking for high-quality cotton fabric, you should look for a low shrinkage percentage.
How to Fix Shrinkage
If your ringspun cotton shirt does shrink, there are a few methods to try and stretch it back to its original size.
- One way is to soak your t-shirt in cold water for 30 minutes, then air-dry it. This will often stretch out the fabric and fix any shrinkage.
- Another option is to wet the entire fabric and lay it flat on a towel. Stretch the material in different directions as it dries, which should also help restore its original size.
Tips to Prevent Shrinkage
To prevent shrinkage in 100% ringspun cotton shirts, follow these tips:
- Wash in cold water and hang or lay flat to dry
- Use a gentle cycle on the washing machine
- Avoid using too much detergent
- Don’t overstuff the washing machine
- Avoid using high heat when ironing
- Tumble dry on low heat instead of high heat if you use the dryer. Again, this will help reduce shrinkage.
- Please read the care labels on your clothes before washing or drying them. The care labels will tell you what temperature setting to wash and dry.
The Uses and Benefits of Ringspun Cotton
Aside from being soft and durable, ringspun cotton is also breathable and absorbent. This makes it a popular choice for t-shirts and other clothing items, as well as towels and bed sheets.
Choosing this type of cotton can be an investment in the longevity and comfort of your clothes.
FAQs
How do you shrink a ring-spun cotton shirt?
- Fill a bathtub or sink with cold water and add enough ice to make the water very cold.
- Put the shirt in the cold water and sit for about 30 minutes.
- Remove the shirt from the water and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. Hang the shirt to air dry. Repeat if necessary.
Is ringspun cotton true to size?
Yes, they do run true to size. However, as mentioned above, ringspun cotton may shrink when exposed to heat and water.
What is the difference between soft-spun and ring-spun cotton?
Ring-spun cotton yarn is made by twisting multiple short strands of cotton together to form a longer strand. It is typically used for higher-quality garments, while soft-spun cotton is usually used for lower-quality items.