How To Wash Organic T-shirts

Can you machine wash your organic tees? The answer is yes. What if your organic t-shirt has a graphic on it? Also yes!

Organic cotton is worth the extra care and attention. In this guide, we’ll show you how to keep your organic tees looking their best, while taking care not to damage the prints.

When it comes to the environmental impact of clothing, it’s important to remember that up to 30% of a garment’s carbon footprint is generated during its use and care. That’s why it’s essential to know how to properly care for your organic clothing, while also being mindful of the environment. Here’s a guide on how to take care of your organic graphic tees in an eco-friendly way:

PLAIN ORGANIC TEES

What’s so special about organic tees?

Organic and environmentally-friendly tees are produced without the use of harsh chemicals and compounds harmful to humans and the environment. Without proper care, they will soak up harmful chemicals from washing powders. We recommend using mild detergent (ideally an environmentally-friendly one).

Here’s what you’ll need:

A washing machine
Mild detergent (ideally an environmentally-friendly one)
Guppy-friendly wash bag for t-shirts that contain synthetic fibres.

Here’s how to ace it:

Start by reading the care label on your organic tee. This will tell you the recommended washing temperature and any specific instructions for the shirt. If in doubt, use the gentle cycle and a cold or warm water setting.
Sort your organic tees by color if you wish to preserve colour vibrance.
Use a mild detergent that is free from harsh chemicals. This will help to protect the integrity of the organic cotton.
Avoid using chlorine bleach and fabric softener, as these can damage the cotton fibres.
Once the cycle is done, hang your t-shirt to dry. Do not wring or twist the shirt, as this can cause stretching or shrinkage.
If your t-shirt has lycra in it (common in fitted tees), avoid using a hot iron as it can cause damage to the elastane.

T-SHIRTS WITH GRAPHICS

Here’s how to wash graphic tees like a pro (or a 50s housewife)

Graphic tees can be washed in the washing machine, as long as you do it right. There are many different ways to print graphics, and some graphics are prone to peeling, so please read the instructions on the care label before proceeding.