The Best Temperature To Wash Cotton Clothes & Prevent Shrinkage

Cotton is one of the most popular and versatile fabrics in the world, known for its comfort and durability. It is breathable, hypoallergenic, and can be used in everything from clothing to upholstery. However, it isn't without some drawbacks, and if you've ever pulled your favorite cotton shirt out of the dryer only to find it smaller than when you put it in, you're not alone. Along with increased drying time, color-fading, and easy wrinkling, cotton fabrics are likely to shrink in the laundry when washed and dried at the wrong temperature. This is particularly true with 100% cotton fabrics, which have a tendency to react strongly to heat and moisture. But why is cotton, unlike popular synthetic fabrics, so prone to shrinking?

Cotton fabric is made by weaving together individual fibers from a cotton plant, and as they're woven, those fibers are stretched. When those natural fibers absorb moisture, they not only swell but also relax. When that moisture is followed by heat — either from hot water or the dryer — the fiber structure contracts as it dries, which is what we perceive as shrinkage. But really, it's just reverting to its natural state. While pre-shrunk cotton fabrics have attempted to reduce the problem associated with this effect, it hasn't eliminated the problem. Understanding how to care for your cotton clothing can help ensure your garments last, and while there isn't one correct way to wash every item of cotton you own, it is safer to stick to cooler temperatures and avoid washing with hot water.

It's important to note that when dealing with any clothes, you should check the garment's care labels before you start any washing process. However, the safest option for preventing cotton fabrics from shrinking and preserving their color is cold water (at a temperature ranging from 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit). This temperature is effective enough to lift dirt and oils while remaining gentle enough to prevent damage to the fabric's fibers. For some items, like bed sheets and towels in mixed cotton fabrics, where minimal shrinking is not as serious a concern, warm water up to 110 degrees Fahrenheit can be used with caution, as it can do a better job removing dirt and oils from your linens but may still cause minimal shrinkage.

When it comes to shrinkage, however, the one temperature that should be avoided on any cotton clothes is hot water over 120 degrees Fahrenheit. While it may be tempting to wash extra dirty garments with extreme heat for a deeper clean, it's these types of temperatures that cause the fibers in cotton to get stressed, tighten up, and lead to visible shrinkage. Hot water can also result in additional harm to your garments, by leaving stains on your clean laundry instead of removing them, and fading the colors on your cotton clothes much quicker. While a complete guide to laundry water temperatures is always good to have on hand, when it comes to cotton fabrics, remember, they like to keep it cool.