
I. Introduction
Overview of Hemp Fabric
Hemp has emerged as a mainstay of sustainable fashion and interior fabric, praised for its strength, environmental sustainability and earthy appeal. This fabric is made from the fibers of the hemp plant, which makes it not only adaptable, but highly eco-friendly. Hemp uses little water and doesn’t use chemical pesticides, so it is a green alternative to synthetic or highly processed natural textiles. On top of its ecological advantages, hemp is tough, breathable and immune to mold, mildew and ultraviolet radiation. Its organic feel gives it a natural, earthy appeal that makes it popular with the modern eco-conscious consumer.
The Question of Shrinkage
As hemp fabric continues to gain popularity, people are often wondering what happens to hemp fabric: does hemp fabric shrink? Learning how to avoid or regulate shrinkage is important to the performance and longevity of hemp products. Even though hemp is hardy and robust, if not properly maintained, it can take on undesirable changes in size or texture. This blog post explores why shrinkage happens and offers useful advice for maintaining hemp cloth to preserve its appearance and performance.
II. Understanding Hemp Fabric Shrinkage
Why Does Hemp Fabric Shrink?
Hemp fabric shrinks largely because of the nature of the fibres. Hemp fibers are stiff, dense fibres, unlike those of cotton or synthetics. These fibres can contract in response to water and heat and cause the cloth to shrink.
There are two explanations for this:
Water Retention: Hemp fibers are hygroscopic, which means that they readily absorb moisture. That property, along with the tension released when washing, can make the fibers collapse.
Heat – Heat, whether it’s hot water or a dryer, increases the shrinkage of hemp fibers.
Hemp fabric does not shrink as dramatically as other materials, but its nature requires that you treat it properly to maintain its original dimensions.
Also Read : How to Wash Hemp Fabric
Types of Shrinkage
Hemp shrinkage can happen in two ways:
Pre-Wash Shrinkage:
- Pre-wash shrinkage refers to the contraction that occurs when the hemp fabric is first washed. It’s typical of natural fabrics as the fibres become accustomed to the detergent cycle. Manufacturers tend to account for this by washing the fabric before use, but if the fabric has not been pre-washed, expect some initial shrinkage.
Progressive Shrinkage:
Over time, shrinkage happens as you wash and dry the piece repeatedly without following care recommendations. Unnatural treatment, such as washing with hot water or drying in high heat, may result in shrinkage over the life of the fabric.
- Factors Contributing to Shrinkage
Several factors determine how much hemp fabric shrinks:
Water Temperature:
Warm water can cause hemp fibres to shrink considerably. Washing in cold or warm water helps prevent unwanted shrinkage.
Drying Methods:
High heat in dryers increases shrinkage in hemp fabric. Air drying is recommended, as it keeps the fabric small and soft.
Fabric Blends:
Hemp is generally combined with fabrics, like cotton, linen or artificial fibres. The mixing effect may influence the washability of the fabric. Pure hemp shrinks more easily than blends that may contain less shrinkage-prone fibers.
Having an insight into these variables will allow consumers to take action to minimize shrinkage and maintain the integrity of their hemp.
III. How To Stop Hemp Fabric From Shrinking!
Hemp textiles, prized for their longevity and eco-friendliness, must be treated to preserve its original shape. By taking precautions, you can avoid excessive shrinkage and keep your hemp fabrics and clothing looking its best.
Pre-Washing Hemp Fabric
Wash hemp fabric beforehand before tailoring, sewing or for DIY projects. This prevents future shrinkage while keeping the final item as large and precise as you want it to be.
Importance of Pre-Washing
- First Shrinkage: Generally natural materials such as hemp shrink slightly on the first wash, which is explained by pre-washing to avoid surprises in the long run.
- Better Fit: If you sew or tailor with hemp, pre-washing means your fabric is pre-shrunk, which makes for better patterns and cuts.
Techniques for Pre-Washing
- Choose Cold or Lukewarm Water: You should use cold or lukewarm water so that the fibers don’t contract too much.
- Soft Cleaners: Use eco-friendly or soft cleansers to preserve the fabric’s quality.
- Agitation: Wash at a gentle cycle or by hand to minimize stress on the fibers.
- Air Dry: Let the fabric dry flat or hang on a line to retain its natural texture and size.
- Using Cold or Lukewarm Water
Why Hemp Fabric Needs Cooler Water?
Hemp fibres tend to contract at high temperatures. The cold or warm water keeps the fibers loose, reducing shrinkage.
Avoiding Hot Water
- Fiber Shrinkage: Hot water increases the contraction of the hemp fibers causing shrinkage.
- Color Hold: Cooler water maintains the natural or printed colors of hemp fabrics, preventing fading.
- Gentle Washing Methods
Hand Washing
Hand washing can help prevent shrinkage for delicate or new hemp products.
How to Wash Hemp Fabric By Hand:
- Fill a Bathtub: Prepare cold or warm water with mild detergent.
- Submerge and Soak: Dip the fabric in the water and let it soak for 10-15 minutes.
- Smooth agitate: Roughly massage the fabric to eliminate oil and sludge.
- Wash Off Deeply: Wash away any soap residue using cool water.
- Water Out: Press out excess water without wringing it.
Machine Washing on Gentle Cycles
When washing in a machine, wash on the delicate cycle to reduce agitation and fiber stress. Wrap hemp items in a mesh laundry bag to avoid snags and knots.
- Air Drying
Benefits of Air Drying
Drying in the air is the safest way to maintain the dimension, shape, and weave of hemp clothing. Dryers overheat fibres, causing them to warp and contract, whereas air drying maintains the natural texture of the fabric.
Tips for Air Drying:
- Spread Flat or Hang: Spread the fabric flat on a drying rack or hang it on a clothesline to help avoid stretching.
- Don’t Expose it to Direct Sunlight: Exposure to sunlight over time leads to fading or uneven drying. Make sure you dry it in a shade.
Avoiding High-Heat Dryer Settings
If you do need a dryer, turn it down to the lowest heat or air-dry setting. Take the cloth out as soon as possible to avoid drying too quickly and increasing shrinkage.
IV. How To Control Shrinkage If You Experience It?
Even with the best efforts, shrinkage could still occur. Luckily, there are ways to stop and mitigate it, returning your hemp fabric back to its original glory.
Stretching Hemp Fabric
You can stretch hemp cloth a bit, even when it is wet, to restore its elasticity and size.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Stretching:
- Dampen the Fabric: Water the shrivelled cloth over with cool water so that it’s thoroughly wet but not wet.
- Lay Flat: Lay the wet fabric on a flat, dry surface, such as a table or counter top.
- Gentle Stretch: Place opposite edges of the fabric in your hands and pull gently to return it to its desired length.
- Hold The Edges in Place: Use weights or pins to secure the fabric while it dries in the air to keep the new size.
Tips for Effective Stretching:
- Be careful not to stretch too hard, as this will alter the grain or texture of the fabric.
- Work slowly and gently to keep your output consistent.
Re-Washing with Care
The material can be re-waxed with extra care if it’s still a little swollen.
Steps for Re-Washing:
- Wash in Cool Water: Incubate the fabric in cool water with a mild detergent for 10-15 minutes.
- Be Careful of the Fabric: Don’t wring or twist it while washing.
- Stretch As You Let It Dry: Lay the fabric flat and yoke it out as it dries naturally.
Using Steam
Steam can be a good way to relax the fibers and eliminate shrinkage.
How Steaming Helps:
- Steam softens the fibers and makes them flexible.
- Careful stretches during steaming can shape the fabric.
Best Practices For Steaming Hemp Fabric:
- Use a Handheld Steamer: Steam over the fabric while moving away from the water droplets.
- Stretch As You Steam: Gentle tug on the fabric to make it return to its original shape.
- Do Not Steam Too Much: Adding too much steam will corrode the fabric. Point to what needs to be transformed.
When to Seek Professional Help
For valuable or severely damaged hemp products, professional cleaners who are adept at cleaning natural fabrics might be able to recover them. Look for cleaning services that offer eco-friendly or sensitive care.
V. Caring for Hemp Blends
Combining hemp with other fibres not only allows for more versatility, but also creates its own unique care needs to maintain the quality and minimise shrinkage. Care involves knowing the benefits of different hemp blends.
Hemp/Cotton Blends
Combining hemp and cotton yields a cloth in which hemp strength and durability is balanced with cotton softness. But cotton’s shrinkage means it’s important to work with these blends with caution.
Managing Shrinkage in Hemp/Cotton Fabrics
- Wash Prep: Wash hemp/cotton fabric prior to sewing or using. It is possible for the cotton fibres to shrink, but this can be corrected by the pre-wash.
- Handwash: Use cold or warm water and mild detergent to avoid pressure on both fibers.
- Low-Agitation Cycles: Use a soft machine cycle or handwash to eliminate friction and shrinkage risks.
Washing Guidelines for Hemp/Cotton Blends
- Color Separate: Divide dark and light-colored items so that dye will not spill over.
- Avoid Heating: The cotton fibers shrink when exposed to hot water, weakening the blend.
- Drying: Air drying works best, but if you do need a dryer, use a low heat setting and dry the clothes immediately.
- Ironing: Use a medium heat setting to iron out wrinkles without melting the fibres.
Hemp/Linen Blends
Linen, like hemp, is an organic fibre of equal strength. Yet its thinness and stretchiness affect the handling of hemp/linen fabrics.
Properties of Hemp/Linen Blends
- They are both breathable and wicking.
- Linen offers a satiny feel that matches hemp’s rougher feel.
- Linen might shrink slightly more than hemp and is not recommended for long-term use.
Care Adjustments for Hemp/Linen Blends
- Careful Handwashing: Handwashing or a delicate machine wash cycle avoids over-agitation of the fibers.
- Use Cold or Warm Water: Always use cold or warm water to prevent shrinkage in both fibers.
- Prevent Heat: Air Drying or tumble drying on low heat minimizes shrinkage and keeps the fabric soft.
- Ironing: When wrinkles are present, you can iron or steam them without damaging the fabric using a low-heat iron.
Hemp/Synthetic Blends
Combining hemp with artificial fibres such as polyester or nylon increases elasticity and resistance to water, but alters care needs. Synthetic fibers are generally less susceptible to shrinkage than natural fibers.
Differences in Shrinkage Behavior
- Hemp fibers may stretch slightly, but synthetics remain solid.
- Improper washing or drying can cause unintended shrinkage that affects the structure of the fabric.
Care Guidelines for Hemp/Synthetic Blends
- Cold Washing: Always wash hemp/synthetic blends in cold water to minimize fiber shrinkage.
- Gentle Detergents: Use mild, eco-friendly detergents to keep from damaging synthetics.
- Low-Heat Drying: Use air drying or a low-heat setting on your dryer in order to avoid heat damage.
- Don’t Overdry: Synthetic fibers will get degraded by heat, so take them out of the dryer as soon as possible.
VI. How to Care for High-Length Hemp Fabric?
By maintaining a regular care schedule, hemp fabrics can stay durable and stylish for years.
- Routine Washing and Drying Practices
- Establishing a Care Routine
- Wash hemp cloths only as needed to minimise wear and tear.
- Pay attention to the care labels to determine the proper washing and drying method.
Washing Tips
- Careful Agitation: Wash by hand or on a delicate cycle to minimize pressure on the fibers.
- Cool Water: Restrict yourself to cold or cool water for cleaning.
- Natural Detergents: Avoid those that are loaded with harsh chemicals that might damage the texture and color of the fabric.
Drying Tips
- Drying: Lay flat or hang hemp fabric to dry out avoiding prolonged exposure to sunlight to ensure no fade.
- Low Heat: When using a dryer, select the lowest setting and unroll the garment immediately to avoid drying it out too much.
Storage Tips
Storage helps protect and preserve the natural beauty of the fabric.
- Fold with Care: Keep hemp fibers folded so they don’t fold up.
- Ventilation: Store in a dry and ventilated environment so that you avoid mildew.
- Discard Plastic: Avoid using plastic bags in place of breathable cotton bags to prevent moisture and odor accumulation.
Spot Cleaning and Stain Removal
Stains can be sprayed immediately, ensuring the fabric doesn’t loose its texture.
Spot Cleaning Tips
- Blot Blemishes: Blot stains with a dry cloth rather than rubbing to get the stains embedded.
- Use Gentle Detergents: Use a mild detergent or a natural stain remover.
- Rinse thoroughly: Make sure all the cleaning solution is rinsed away, to prevent build-up.
VII. FAQs About Hemp Fabric Shrinkage Frequently Asked Questions About Hemp Fabric Shrinkage
Does Pre-Washed Hemp Fabric Still Lie Flat?
Even though pre-washed hemp fabric has been processed to prevent shrinkage, minor shrinkage can still happen following the first wash. Good handling, including cold water washing and air drying, can avoid further shrinkage.
What About Using a Dryer for Hemp Cloths?
Yes, but with caution:
- Use a low heat or air-dry setting.
- Removing clothes as soon as dry helps avoid wrinkles or drying out.
- Stay away from excessive heat which damages fibers and shrinks them.
What is the Average Shrinkage for Hemp Fabric?
Hemp squirts about 3-5% the first time you wash it, particularly if it is not pre-shrunk. Care can reduce this effect by taking proper care.
Is Shrinkage Reversible In Hemp Fabrics?
We can’t reverse everything, but there are some ways of restoring the form of the fabric:
- Stretching: Carefully stretch wet fabric to its original dimensions.
- Steaming: Use a steamer to soften the fibers and minimize shrinkage.

Yashvi Jain, a writer by day and reader by night, is an accomplished content writer and published author of ‘Mind Under Construction. Yashvi possesses extensive knowledge of fabrics, sustainability, and literature. On occasions, you would catch her scripting for her YouTube channel, engrossed in fiction, or ardently dedicating her time to research and storytelling.