Will Hemp Clothing Shrink?

Hemp clothing is gaining popularity for its sustainability and durability. But if you’re considering adding hemp garments to your wardrobe, you might be wondering—will they shrink after washing?

Yes, hemp clothing can shrink, especially when exposed to high heat. Washing in cold water and air drying can minimize shrinkage¹, keeping your hemp garments in their original shape.

Understanding how hemp fabric reacts to washing, drying, and daily wear can help you maintain its longevity. Let’s explore the factors that influence shrinkage and how to prevent it.

Why Does Hemp Clothing Shrink?

Like other natural fabrics, hemp reacts to heat and moisture.

Hemp fibers contract when exposed to hot water, high-heat drying, or excessive agitation, leading to shrinkage. Cold water washing and low-heat drying can help prevent this.

Hemp’s shrinkage behavior is similar to that of cotton and linen, but it has unique characteristics:

1. Natural Fiber Composition

Hemp fibers have a porous structure that allows them to absorb moisture. When subjected to heat, the fibers contract, making the fabric denser and causing the garment to shrink.

2. High Heat Sensitivity

Hot water and high-temperature drying cause hemp to tighten. This is why many manufacturers recommend air drying or using low-heat settings.

3. Weaving and Fabric Type

Tightly woven hemp fabrics shrink less than loosely woven ones. Blended hemp fabrics, such as hemp-cotton blends, also behave differently in terms of shrinkage.

Factor Affecting Shrinkage	Pure Hemp Fabric	Hemp Blends
Heat Sensitivity	High	Moderate
Shrinkage Risk in Hot Water	High	Lower
Air Drying Effectiveness	Best	Good

How Much Does Hemp Clothing Shrink?

The amount of shrinkage depends on washing and drying conditions.

Hemp clothing² can shrink between 5-10% if washed in hot water or dried on high heat. Following proper care instructions reduces shrinkage significantly.

Here’s what affects the level of shrinkage:

1. First Wash Shrinkage

Most hemp garments experience their greatest shrinkage in the first wash. Washing in cold water prevents drastic size reduction.

2. Repeated Washing Impact

While hemp is highly durable, repeated exposure to heat will continue shrinking the fibers slightly over time.

3. Pre-Shrunk Hemp Fabrics

Some manufacturers pre-shrink hemp fabrics before selling them. These garments will shrink less compared to untreated hemp clothing.

Can You Prevent Hemp Clothing from Shrinking?

Yes, with the right care, you can maintain your hemp garments’ original size.

Washing hemp clothing in cold water, air drying, and avoiding excessive heat can prevent shrinkage. Always check the care label for specific instructions.

Follow these care steps:

1. Wash in Cold Water

Cold water prevents fibers from tightening. Use a gentle cycle to minimize stress on the fabric.

2. Air Dry Whenever Possible

Hemp dries quickly, so hanging it in a shaded area is the best way to preserve its shape.

3. Use a Low Heat Setting if Machine Drying

If air drying isn’t an option, use the lowest heat setting on your dryer. Removing the garment while slightly damp also helps prevent excessive shrinkage.

Will Hemp Blends Shrink Less Than Pure Hemp?

Fabric blends behave differently when washed.

Hemp blends, such as hemp-cotton or hemp-bamboo, generally shrink less than pure hemp fabric. The blending fiber determines the level of shrinkage.

Here’s how different blends compare:

1. Hemp-Cotton Blends³

Cotton is also prone to shrinkage, so a hemp-cotton blend will still shrink but may be slightly more flexible than pure hemp.

2. Hemp-Bamboo Blends

Bamboo fibers add softness and flexibility to hemp fabric, reducing shrinkage and making the fabric more resistant to heat.

3. Hemp-Polyester Blends

Polyester helps retain fabric shape, so hemp-polyester blends shrink much less than pure hemp garments.

Fabric Type	Shrinkage Level	Softness	Durability
100% Hemp	High	Moderate	Very High
Hemp-Cotton Blend	Moderate	High	High
Hemp-Bamboo Blend	Low	Very High	High
Hemp-Polyester Blend	Very Low	Moderate	Very High

What Happens If You Accidentally Shrink Hemp Clothing?

There are ways to restore shrunken hemp garments.

If your hemp clothing shrinks, soaking it in lukewarm water and gently stretching it while damp can help restore its shape.

Here’s how to fix it:

1. Soak in Lukewarm Water

Fill a basin with lukewarm water and let the garment sit for 15-20 minutes. This relaxes the fibers.

2. Gently Stretch the Fabric

While still damp, gently stretch the fabric by hand. Avoid pulling too hard, as this can distort the shape.

3. Lay Flat to Dry

Lay the garment flat on a towel and reshape it as needed. Let it air dry naturally.

Can You Shrink Hemp Clothing on Purpose?

Some people prefer a snugger fit and want to shrink their hemp garments.

You can intentionally shrink hemp clothing by washing it in hot water and drying it on high heat, but this may affect fabric longevity.

If you want to shrink your hemp clothing, follow these steps carefully:

1. Wash in Hot Water

Hot water encourages fiber contraction. A longer wash cycle increases shrinkage.

2. Use High-Heat Drying

Tumble drying on high heat maximizes shrinkage. Be aware that repeated high-heat exposure can weaken the fibers.

3. Test on a Small Area First

If you’re unsure how much the garment will shrink, test the method on a less visible part of the clothing.

How to Store Hemp Clothing to Maintain Its Shape?

Storage plays a role in preserving hemp fabric.

Properly folding and storing hemp clothing in a dry, cool place prevents unnecessary stretching or shrinking over time.

Follow these tips:

1. Fold Instead of Hanging

Hanging hemp garments for long periods can cause stretching. Fold them neatly and store in a drawer or shelf.

2. Avoid Plastic Bags

Plastic traps moisture, which can lead to mildew. Use breathable fabric storage bags instead.

3. Keep in a Cool, Dry Place

Excessive humidity or heat can affect hemp fibers. Store garments in a well-ventilated area.

Conclusion

Hemp clothing can shrink, especially when exposed to heat, but proper care prevents significant size changes. Washing in cold water, air drying, and avoiding high heat will keep your hemp garments in great condition. If shrinkage occurs, gentle stretching can help restore the fabric’s shape. With the right care, hemp clothing remains a durable, eco-friendly choice for long-term wear.

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