If you’ve recently bought your first piece of hemp clothing, or you’re eyeing a cozy hemp robe or a pair of breathable hemp socks, you might be wondering what happens when it hits the washing machine. The last thing anyone wants is to invest in sustainable clothing only for it to come out a size smaller.
This article will cover whether hemp shrinks, what causes it, how to care for your hemp clothes properly, and what you can expect in terms of long-term wear.
First off: Does hemp clothing shrink?
Yes, hemp clothing can shrink, but not drastically, and usually only the first time it’s washed. Like cotton and other natural fibers, hemp reacts to heat and agitation. It’ll likely shrink slightly if you throw it into a hot wash and then a high-heat tumble dry. This is especially true if it hasn’t been pre-shrunk by the manufacturer.
Most high-quality hemp garments are pre-washed or pre-shrunk before being sold. If your hemp robe or hemp socks have already gone through this process, you’re unlikely to see much size change.
Why does hemp shrink?
Hemp is a natural plant fiber, just like cotton or linen. Natural fibers are more sensitive to temperature and moisture than synthetic materials. When hemp gets wet, the fibers swell. When it dries, especially under heat, the fibers tighten and contract.
Think of it like this: the weave in the fabric shifts slightly as the fibers move. The result? A snugger fit if care isn’t taken.
Does all hemp clothing shrink the same way?
Not necessarily. How much a hemp item shrinks depends on:
- The blend: Pure hemp fabrics may shrink more than those blended with cotton, bamboo, or Tencel.
- The weave or knit: Loose weaves might shrink less noticeably than tightly woven items.
- The garment type: A thick hemp robe may shrink slightly less in appearance compared to a thin T-shirt, simply because of how the fabric hangs and moves.
- Whether it’s been pre-washed or not: As mentioned earlier, pre-shrunk items are far more stable when washed.
How to prevent shrinkage
Now for the good part, how to keep your hemp socks from suddenly turning into kids’ sizes. Here are a few simple care tips:
- Wash in cold water. Hemp doesn’t need a hot wash to get clean. Cold or lukewarm water is gentle on the fibers and prevents shrinking.
- Use a gentle cycle. A shorter, slower wash reduces friction, which keeps the fabric’s shape intact.
- Avoid high heat when drying. Air drying is best. Just lay your hemp clothing flat or hang it in the shade. If you’re in a rush and need to use a dryer, opt for the lowest heat setting.
- Don’t wring the fabric. After washing, gently squeeze out excess water instead of twisting it. Twisting can distort the fibers and make them more likely to shrink when drying.
What happens over time?
Here’s the good news: Hemp is known for getting softer and firmer the more you wear and wash it. So while there might be a slight shrinkage initially, especially if care instructions are ignored, the fabric becomes more comfortable over time. Many people find that their hemp clothing feels better with age.
In contrast to fast-fashion materials that stretch out, pill, or fall apart, hemp retains its structure.
Should you size up?
In most cases, you don’t need to. If the brand indicates the item has been pre-shrunk, you can feel confident ordering your usual size. If it hasn’t, or if you’re right between sizes, you could size up just to be safe, especially with fitted garments like tops or trousers.
Final thoughts
So yes, hemp clothing can shrink, but it’s usually minor and easy to manage with the proper care. Cold water, gentle washing, and air drying will go a long way in keeping your clothes looking and fitting just right.
The key thing to remember is that hemp is one of the most sustainable, breathable, and long-lasting fabrics you can choose. If you have questions about how to wash specific items or blend types? Always check the label first, then feel free to experiment with your laundry settings in a way that works for your wardrobe and lifestyle.
