When ordering custom clothing and branded workwear for your business, there are numerous factors to consider. From design aesthetics to fabric quality, every decision impacts your final product. However, one critical aspect that many businesses overlook is garment shrinkage. Understanding why garment shrinkage matters before you place a bulk order could be the difference between a successful branded merchandise campaign and a costly mistake. At Print Reloaded, we've seen countless organisations invest in personalised garments only to discover sizing issues after delivery. This comprehensive guide will help you make informed decisions when ordering custom clothing in bulk.
Understanding Garment Shrinkage and Its Impact
Garment shrinkage is the reduction in size that occurs when fabric is washed and dried. This natural phenomenon affects most textiles, particularly natural fibres like cotton, wool, and linen. When water penetrates fabric fibres, it causes them to swell temporarily. As the garment dries, the fibres contract, often not returning to their original dimensions.
For businesses ordering branded workwear or personalised garments in bulk, shrinkage can create significant problems. If you order 100 medium-sized t-shirts expecting them to fit your employees, but the garments shrink by 5-10% after the first wash, you could end up with clothing that no longer fits properly. This is particularly problematic for corporate uniforms, team merchandise, or promotional items where consistency is essential.
Why Garment Shrinkage Matters Before You Place a Bulk Order
Placing a bulk order without considering shrinkage rates is a risky business decision. Here's why this factor deserves your attention:
Financial Implications
Bulk orders represent significant financial investments. If your custom clothing shrinks unexpectedly, you may need to reorder replacements, doubling your costs. For small and medium-sized enterprises operating on tight budgets, this can be devastating. Additionally, if your branded workwear no longer fits your team members, you've essentially wasted money on unusable inventory.
Brand Reputation
When employees receive branded merchandise that doesn't fit properly after washing, it reflects poorly on your company. Personalised garments represent your brand, and ill-fitting clothing undermines your professional image. Customers and clients notice when staff wear poorly-fitting uniforms, and it can damage your brand reputation.
Employee Satisfaction
If you're investing in custom clothing for your team, you want them to feel valued and comfortable. Garments that shrink unexpectedly lead to frustrated employees who feel their employer didn't invest in quality products. This can impact morale and productivity within your organisation.
Waste and Environmental Concerns
Ordering replacement stock due to shrinkage creates unnecessary waste. As businesses increasingly focus on sustainability, wasting resources through poor planning contradicts environmental commitments. Minimising waste should be a priority when ordering custom clothing.
Fabric Types and Shrinkage Rates
Different fabrics shrink at different rates. Understanding these variations is essential when selecting materials for your bulk order:
Cotton
Pure cotton typically shrinks between 3-5% after the first wash. However, untreated cotton can shrink up to 8%. This is why pre-shrunk cotton is often recommended for custom clothing and branded workwear.
Cotton-Polyester Blends
Blended fabrics generally shrink less than pure cotton. A 65% polyester and 35% cotton blend typically shrinks only 1-2%, making it an excellent choice for bulk orders where consistency is crucial.
Wool
Wool can shrink significantly, sometimes up to 25% if not properly treated. For personalised garments made from wool, specialist care instructions and pre-shrinking processes are essential.
Synthetic Fabrics
Polyester and acrylic blends are generally pre-shrunk and experience minimal shrinkage, typically less than 1%. These are reliable choices for bulk orders requiring consistent sizing.
Pre-Shrinking and Quality Control Measures
Professional garment printers and custom clothing manufacturers employ pre-shrinking processes to minimise issues. During pre-shrinking, fabrics are treated to remove excess dyes and stabilise fibres before garments are constructed. This process significantly reduces shrinkage rates.
When ordering custom clothing, always ask your supplier about their pre-shrinking processes. Reputable companies like Print Reloaded implement rigorous quality control measures to ensure garment consistency and durability.
Best Practices for Ordering Bulk Custom Clothing
Request Shrinkage Information
Always ask your custom clothing supplier for detailed shrinkage rates for the specific fabrics you're ordering. This information should be provided in writing and should include data from independent testing.
Order Sample Garments
Before committing to a bulk order, request sample personalised garments. Wash and dry these samples according to the care instructions and measure them to verify actual shrinkage rates.
Choose Pre-Shrunk Fabrics
For branded workwear and bulk orders, always select pre-shrunk fabrics. The minimal additional cost is worth the assurance of consistent sizing.
Account for Shrinkage in Sizing
Work with your supplier to order slightly larger sizes if necessary, accounting for expected shrinkage. This ensures your final garments fit properly after the first wash.
Provide Clear Care Instructions
When distributing custom clothing to employees or customers, include detailed washing instructions. Recommend cold water washing and air drying to minimise shrinkage.
Conclusion
Understanding why garment shrinkage matters before you place a bulk order is essential for any business investing in custom clothing or branded workwear. By considering shrinkage rates, selecting appropriate fabrics, and implementing quality control measures, you can ensure your personalised garments maintain their fit and appearance. Take time to discuss shrinkage with your supplier, request samples, and verify pre-shrinking processes. This diligent approach protects your investment and ensures your branded merchandise represents your company professionally. When you're ready to place your next bulk order, remember that informed decisions about garment shrinkage lead to superior results and satisfied recipients.
