CATEGORY HUB · 65 ARTICLES
Dimensional Stability
Dimensional stability of fabrics
Why fabrics shrink, stretch, or skew after washing. Test methods (ISO 5077, AATCC 135), test conditions, and the structural reasons behind dimensional change.
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Essential reading
Start here. The most important articles that explain the category to a textile engineer in one sitting.
Dimensional Stability
Does Fleece Shrink? How to Wash Fleece Without Damaging It
Synthetic polyester fleece is highly resistant to traditional, water-based shrinkage. Because it is engineered from...
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Dimensional Stability
Does Corduroy Shrink? Protecting Your Corduroy Clothes
Synthetic polyester fleece is highly resistant to traditional, water-based shrinkage. Because it is engineered from...
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Dimensional Stability
Does Tencel (Lyocell) Shrink? Everything About Lyocell Care
Synthetic polyester fleece is highly resistant to traditional, water-based shrinkage. Because it is engineered from...
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Dimensional Stability
Does Capilene Polyester Shrink? Let’s Get to the Bottom of It!
Synthetic polyester fleece is highly resistant to traditional, water-based shrinkage. Because it is engineered from...
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More from this category
More specific processes, techniques, and topic deep-dives.
Dimensional Stability
Does Acrylic Shrink? How to Safely Wash Acrylic Fabric
Synthetic polyester fleece is highly resistant to traditional, water-based shrinkage. Because it is engineered from...
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Dimensional Stability
Does Modal Shrink? The Truth About Modal Fabric Care
Synthetic polyester fleece is highly resistant to traditional, water-based shrinkage. Because it is engineered from...
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Dimensional Stability
Does Viscose Shrink? And How to Stop It
Synthetic polyester fleece is highly resistant to traditional, water-based shrinkage. Because it is engineered from...
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Dimensional Stability
Does Rayon Shrink? What Every Rayon Owner Must Know
Synthetic polyester fleece is highly resistant to traditional, water-based shrinkage. Because it is engineered from...
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Dimensional Stability
Does Bamboo Fabric Shrink? Bamboo vs. Heat
Synthetic polyester fleece is highly resistant to traditional, water-based shrinkage. Because it is engineered from...
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Dimensional Stability
Does Cashmere Shrink? The Delicate Truth About Cashmere Care
Synthetic polyester fleece is highly resistant to traditional, water-based shrinkage. Because it is engineered from...
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Dimensional Stability
Does Polyester Shrink? How Much and Under What Conditions
Synthetic polyester fleece is highly resistant to traditional, water-based shrinkage. Because it is engineered from...
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Dimensional Stability
Does Jersey Knit Shrink? T-Shirt Fabric Care Explained
Synthetic polyester fleece is highly resistant to traditional, water-based shrinkage. Because it is engineered from...
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Dimensional Stability
Why Do My Pants Roll Down At The Waist?
15 Reasons Why Your Pants Are Rolling Down at the Waist — and How to...
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Dimensional Stability
Why Do Jeans Get Tight After Washing?
Jeans get tight after washing primarily because cotton fibers shrink when exposed to water and...
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Dimensional Stability
Does Pima Cotton Shrink?
Yes — Pima cotton shrinks between 2% and 5% when washed in hot water (above...
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Dimensional Stability
Does the Gildan Heavy Cotton Shrink?
Yes—Gildan heavy cotton shirts do shrink, but only by 1%–3% on first wash. Thanks to...
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Dimensional Stability
Nike Shirts: Do They Shrink?
Do Nike Shirts Shrink? Fabric Data, Shrinkage Rates & Care Guide Nike shirts shrink depending...
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Dimensional Stability
Does Nike Tech Fleece Shrink?
No — Nike Tech Fleece does not significantly shrink when properly cared for. Under recommended...
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Frequently asked questions
How much does cotton shrink?
Untreated cotton shrinks 5-10% on first wash. Pre-shrunk or sanforized cotton shrinks < 3%. Knit cotton shrinks more than woven (8-12% vs 3-5%).
What is relaxation shrinkage?
The initial dimensional change when fabric or yarn is first wetted and dried without agitation. Caused by fiber relaxation. Most of relaxation shrinkage happens in the first wash.
What is progressive shrinkage?
Additional shrinkage that occurs with each subsequent wash cycle. Less than relaxation shrinkage per cycle but cumulative. Stabilized by pre-shrinking (sanforizing) or resin finishing.
What is spirality?
Skew in fabric after washing. Caused by unbalanced yarn twist and fabric construction. Per ISO 16322, measured as percentage shift. Acceptable: < 5% for most apparel. Higher for some knits.
How is dimensional stability tested?
Per ISO 5077 (washing procedure) with ISO 6330 (wash conditions) or AATCC TM 135 (home laundering). Measure fabric dimensions before and after specified wash cycles. Result: percent shrinkage or growth.
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