When you’re sourcing fabrics for your next clothing line, one of the top concerns is often how the material will behave after the first wash. This is especially true for fabrics like our Scarlet Red Stretch Fine Sweatshirt Fleece Knit Fabric, which combines vibrant color with comfort. With its blend of polyester and cotton, this fabric is designed to provide both durability and a soft, cozy feel, making it an ideal choice for everything from athleisure wear to casual sweatshirts and hoodies. However, understanding how it will react after laundering is crucial for ensuring your end products maintain their shape and size.
In terms of shrinkage, this fabric is carefully processed to minimize the risk. While no fabric is completely immune to shrinkage after the first wash, the polyester component in this fleece blend is naturally resistant to significant shrinkage. Polyester fibers tend to hold their shape better than other materials, so the risk of substantial shrinkage is reduced. That being said, the cotton content in the fabric may still cause a slight, gradual shrinkage when exposed to heat, especially if the fabric isn’t pre-shrunk. This is why we recommend following the care instructions carefully, which typically involve washing in cold water and air drying to avoid heat-induced shrinkage.
For customers concerned about post-wash size changes, pre-shrinking the fabric before production can be a wise option. Pre-shrinking eliminates most of the risk of shrinkage during subsequent washes, ensuring the fabric retains its intended dimensions throughout the garment's life cycle. However, it’s important to note that even with pre-shrinking, a minimal amount of shrinkage (typically around 2-3%) can still occur with natural fibers like cotton, which is why it’s always advisable to provide care instructions to your end customers. This will help maintain the fabric’s color, texture, and size, while extending the longevity of the finished garment.
While the Scarlet Red Stretch Fine Sweatshirt Fleece Knit Fabric is designed to resist major shrinkage due to its polyester base, a slight shrinkage from the cotton content is possible, especially if not pre-shrunk. By following proper care instructions and considering pre-shrinking for large orders, you can ensure that your final product holds its shape and keeps your customers happy.
