T-Shirt Talk: Fabrics, Feel, and the Power of Washing

We all love a good T-shirt, but have you ever noticed how some shirts become your go-to favorites while others end up shoved in the back of your drawer? A lot of it comes down to the fabric and how you care for it. Let’s break it down in simple terms.

100% Cotton – The Classic Choice
Cotton shirts are soft, breathable, and perfect for everyday wear. They’re great for sensitive skin and feel natural against your body. The downside? They can shrink if you wash them in hot water or toss them in a dryer on high heat. Cotton also tends to wrinkle easily—but hey, that “lived-in” look is trending anyway.

Polyester – The Performance Pro
Polyester is a synthetic fabric that’s known for being lightweight, durable, and quick-drying. If you’ve got a workout tee or a jersey, chances are it’s polyester. The perk is you don’t have to worry much about wrinkles or shrinking, but sometimes polyester doesn’t breathe as well and can trap heat (and sweat). That’s why it’s often blended with cotton to give you the best of both worlds.

Airlume Cotton – The Premium Upgrade
You may have seen “airlume combed and ring-spun cotton” on higher-end shirts. It’s basically a fancy way of saying the cotton fibers have been cleaned and smoothed out to remove impurities. The result? Shirts that feel softer, print designs better, and last longer. They’re less likely to pill or fuzz up after a few washes, which makes them a solid choice if you want your tee to look fresh.

Why Washing Matters
No matter what fabric you choose, how you wash your shirts makes a huge difference. Hot water and high heat can shrink cotton, fade colors, and wear down prints. Polyester can handle a little more toughness, but harsh cycles can still stretch or damage the fibers over time. The rule of thumb? Cold water, gentle cycle, and air-dry when you can. If you must use the dryer, keep it on low heat.

Why We Include Care Cards
That’s also why we tuck a care card into every order. It’s not just a cute extra—it’s your guide to getting the longest life out of your shirt. Think of it like a cheat sheet for laundry day. The right care keeps your tee soft, your design crisp, and your money well spent. After all, a T-shirt isn’t just fabric; it’s a little piece of self-expression, and we want it to last for you.

The Bottom Line
Different fabrics give you different benefits. Cotton is comfy, polyester is tough, and airlume cotton is like cotton’s fancier cousin. But even the best shirt won’t last if you don’t care for it. Wash smart, dry gently, and your favorite tee can stay looking good long after that first wear.