How to Care for Handloom Cotton Shirts and T-Shirts

Handloom cotton is woven slowly on hand-operated looms, which gives it a soft, slightly textured feel and excellent breathability. With a little care, your shirts and t-shirts will get softer and more comfortable with every wear.

Washing

• Wash in cold or lukewarm water on a gentle cycle, or hand wash.
• Use a mild detergent. Avoid bleach, which weakens cotton fibres.
• Wash dark and light colours separately, especially for the first few washes — handloom dyes can release a little colour at first.
• Turn t-shirts and polos inside out to protect the surface.

Drying

• Dry in the shade. Strong direct sun can fade colours over time.
• Shake out the garment and smooth the collar, placket and seams before hanging.
• Avoid tumble drying on high heat, which can shrink cotton.
• Dry knitted t-shirts flat or folded over a line so they keep their shape.

Ironing

• Iron on a medium-hot cotton setting while the fabric is slightly damp.
• Iron dark colours inside out to avoid shine.
• For polos, iron the collar first, then the placket and body.

Storing

Hang shirts on wide hangers to protect the shoulders. Fold t-shirts and polos — hanging can stretch the neckline over time. Store everything clean and fully dry in a cool, airy wardrobe.

Quick answers

Does handloom cotton shrink?

Cotton can shrink slightly with hot water or high-heat drying. Cold washes and shade drying keep shrinkage to a minimum.

Why does handloom cotton feel different?

Because it is woven by hand, the weave has small natural variations. These are a sign of handloom craft, not a defect.

Always check the care label on your garment first.