How to Soften a Shirt: A Complete Guide

By ShirtSpace | Jan 02, 2025 |  Updated Jan 03, 2025

Tired of scratchy, stiff shirts? Learn how to soften a shirt using everyday tools and materials! Technical clothing. Concert t-shirts. Statement wardrobe. Fan apparel. Comfy pajama tops. T-shirts are everywhere. 

They can be used as casual clothing, comfortable companions, and classy accompaniments to blazers and suit jackets. Plus, they are incredibly useful when layering — but all of this flexibility also means that t-shirts come into direct contact with your skin. And that’s where the discomfort begins.

Hero Image Source: MART PRODUCTION from Pexels
 

How to Make a Stiff Shirt Softer

A piece of clothing that’s supposed to be easy, casual, and multipurpose can suddenly become an irritating nuisance. It’s either too stiff and boxy, or it’s scratchy and unstructured. And even if a new t-shirt somehow manages to be soft, it’s usually because the material is too thin. One wash later, and it’s ready to retire.

As it turns out, there are multiple ways to soften your shirt, so it has that vintage feel of a beloved, well-worn t-shirt without you having to literally wear it in. In fact, there are a lot of people who want to age their shirts without damage, making this quite the trend!

The best part is that these are all DIY hacks you can try at home using only a few household ingredients and techniques, as well as ShirtSpace blanks, of course! Keep in mind, though, the fabric of your t-shirt affects which method will work best.

Reasons Your Shirt Might Not Be Soft

There are many factors that could be contributing to the lack of softness in a particular garment. These are not all of the reasons, but these are some of the most common: 

Low-Quality Fabrics:

• Synthetic materials
• Short staple cotton

Heavyweight Fabrics:

• The GSM and overall density play a part in the softness. Heavyweight tees can sometimes be less soft
   

Improper Laundry Practices:

• Overuse of detergents
• Soap buildup
• High temperatures
• Too bulky of loads increasing agitation
• Hard water

Fabric Damage:

• Exposure to natural elements
• Pilling

Cheap Dyes or Prints:

• Thick ink application
• Poor quality supplies

Step-by-Step Instructions for Softening T-Shirts

Image credit: Gonzalo Calle Asprilla from Getty Images

Let’s say that, despite your best efforts to pick a high-quality t-shirt, for some reason, it’s stiff and creased from being packed for so long. You can soften your t-shirt — but it’s tricky. You’ve got to choose the proper technique for your fabric blend. So what’s a t-shirt lover to do?

Remember that fabrics for athletic performance are not the right candidates for these methods. Synthetic materials, such as 100% polyester and spandex, are soft and flexible by their nature, so you’re unlikely to need any of these methods. That’s why natural fibers like rayon and cotton are built for longevity and make such perfect t-shirts. The trade-off is that you may have to soften them first. Select which method showing how to soften a stiff cotton shirt, or other t-shirt material, by reading on:

How to Soften a T-Shirt by Tumble Drying

• SUITABLE FOR: ALL T-SHIRT FABRICS

Image credit: engin akyurt
 

Sometimes, your t-shirts are too stiff because you’ve been air-drying them. For the most part, that’s a good thing. Not only is line- or rack-drying a far more eco-friendly solution, but it also preserves the quality of your t-shirts over time when it comes to general wear and tear, as well as fit and color retention. But there can also be too much of a good thing. Try to avoid over-doing it, but when done correctly, this technique will soften your t-shirts without stretching them.

To soften up your stiff or scratchy t-shirts, follow these quick and easy steps:
 

SUPPLIES NEEDED:

• Washing machine
• Machine dryer
• Tennis or dryer balls (optional)
   

INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1:
Run your clothing through a normal wash cycle as you would, including fabric softener, or a laundry softening alternative (more on that later) 

Step 2:
Air dry the clothes to about 60-70% dryness.

Step 3:
Put the clothing into the dryer on a low-tumble dry setting. You can also add a few tennis or dryer balls to work out any wrinkles.

*Pro-tip: If you’re allergic to soap, consider using this technique — run your stiff t-shirts through the washing machine on a warm wash/cold rinse setting. Then, use 1 cup of non-fat evaporated milk instead of your usual substitute. Then tumble dry your clothes on delicate.

*Pro-tip 2: When in a hurry, you can also skip steps 1 and 2, and use this method to give your clothes a quick “freshen up”.

How to Soften a Stiff Shirt With Sandpaper or Scouring Pads

• SUITABLE FOR: 100% COTTON, COTTON/POLY BLENDS, TRI-BLENDS
• BE CAUTIOUS WITH: LIGHTWEIGHT MATERIALS
• AVOID: PERFORMANCE FABRICS (POLYESTER, SPANDEX), RAYON 

Image credit: scouring pad

This is a great method for t-shirts that have prints, letters, or designs on them. You don’t want to ruin the ink or make the pigment bleed, but at the same time, you’re craving that soft-to-the-touch, vintage feel. This method takes a little elbow grease, but is worth the work. Just be sure not to take it slow and apply even pressure so you do not overdo it immediately and permanently damage your tee. Too aggressive of scrubbing could end up ripping the collar (unless grunge is what you’re going for). This method is very effective, but you’ll need to do this at least 2-3 times to see drastic results.
 

SUPPLIES NEEDED:

• Scouring pads (or sandpaper)
• 1 cup of salt
• Detergent (or washing soda)
• Washing machine
• Machine dryer
   

INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1:
Start by running your scouring pads (or sandpaper) all around the neckline, sleeves, and hemline. Do not scrub the rest of the t-shirt, and avoid the printed area.

Step 2:
Combine one cup of salt with ¼ of a cup of detergent or washing soda. This will break down the fibers of the t-shirt. Set to the side for now.

Step 3:
Place your t-shirt(s) in a washing cycle set to high heat and allow water to fill in. When the machine is almost full of water, place the soap and salt mixture in. Close the machine once more and let it run through the cycle. 

Step 4:
Dry the t-shirt on high heat (if you are not concerned about shrinkage) one more time.
 

Natural Methods for Softening T-Shirts

Wondering how to make a shirt softer with more natural and eco-friendly methods? It is easy with these three simple solutions! 

How to Soften a Shirt With a Vinegar & Baking Soda Wash

• SUITABLE FOR: 100% COTTON, COTTON/POLY BLENDS, TRI-BLENDS
• AVOID: PERFORMANCE FABRICS (POLYESTER, SPANDEX), SILK, WOOL, RAYON 

Image credit: Helin Loik-Tomson
 

Vinegar is a household staple that we mainly associate with cleaning, but it can help you soften your t-shirts, too. This method is best for fabrics that are either 100% cotton, or a blend that is primarily made up of cotton.

You want to start with white vinegar. Don’t use red wine or apple cider — these will stain your t-shirt. You’ll also need baking soda and a few measuring spoons and cups.
 

SUPPLIES NEEDED:

• White vinegar
• Large bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Measuring cups
• Baking soda
• Washing machine
• Machine dryer
   

INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1:
Take a very large bowl and add one tablespoon of baking soda.

Step 2:
Slowly pour in one cup of white vinegar so that the resulting fizz mostly remains in the bowl. Once it’s stopped fizzing, give the solution a good stir to make sure all the baking soda has dissolved.

Step 3:
Pour your baking soda and vinegar solution into your washing machine along with your t-shirt, and then give it a good, normal rinse. Do not add laundry detergent.

*Important note: When using vinegar to soften a shirt in tandem with normal washing practices, green cleaning expert, Susan Stocker advises that, “You can use vinegar and laundry detergent in the same load, but you cannot mix them. If you're using detergent, add the vinegar to the rinse cycle after the detergent is out. Otherwise, you'll get oily clothes.” 

Step 4:
Dry as normal, and enjoy your softer t-shirt!

How to Soften Shirts WIth a Salt or Brining Solution

• SUITABLE FOR: 100% COTTON, COTTON/POLY BLENDS, LINEN
• AVOID: PERFORMANCE FABRICS (POLYESTER, SPANDEX), LIGHTWEIGHT MATERIALS, RAYON, SILK

Image credit: Jason Tuinstra

The saltwater solution is another easy DIY technique that you can create right at home to soften a shirt. Just make sure you have a large enough pot, like a Dutch oven or pasta pot. This method is fine for polyester blends and cotton, but not for rayon. However, for these safe materials it should leave your shirt much softer.
 

SUPPLIES NEEDED:

• Large pot
• Water (tap is fine)
• Salt
• Stirring utensil such as a large wooden spoon
• Colander
• Washing machine
   

INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1:
Fill the pot with water. When deciding how much water to add, make sure to account for water displacement that will occur when you add the clothing later.

Step 2:
Put your pot on the stove and turn up the heat to bring the water to a boil.

Step 3:
Pour in one cup of salt. Stir it in to make sure it dissolves.

Step 4:
Wet your t-shirt under the sink and then submerge it into the solution — carefully. Make sure you don’t burn your hand on the hot water.

Step 5:
Once the shirt is situated, set your stove’s burner to “low” and let it sit for 30 to 45 minutes with the lid on. 

Step 6:
Take your shirt soup off the stove and drain in a colander.

Step 7:
Once the t-shirt has cooled, rinse it to remove the excess salt.

Step 8:
Run it through a normal wash cycle. 

How to Soften T-Shirts With a Pumice Stone

• SUITABLE FOR: 100% COTTON, COTTON/POLY BLENDS, DENIM, HEAVYWEIGHT FABRICS
• BE CAUTIOUS WITH: LIGHTWEIGHT MATERIALS
• AVOID: PERFORMANCE FABRICS (POLYESTER, SPANDEX), RAYON, SILK

Image credit: EdnaM from Getty Images

This is a pretty simple and ingenious technique. You already use pumice stones for your pedicures, so why can’t you use it for your rough or scratchy t-shirts? Unlike using abrasive objects like sandpaper or scouring pads, this one needs no liquids: 
 

SUPPLIES NEEDED:

• Pumice stone
• Fabric softener
• Water (tap is fine)
• Washing machine
• Machine dryer

INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1:
Take a pumice stone and brush all over your t-shirt, including the sleeves and hemline. 

Step 2:
Soak the t-shirts overnight in a solution of fabric softener and just a few teaspoons of water.

Step 3:
The next morning, run it through a normal wash cycle, and there you have it!


 

How to Soften a Shirt Using Epsom Salt & Essential Oils

• SUITABLE FOR: 100% COTTON, COTTON/POLY BLENDS, TRI-BLENDS, BAMBOO, MODAL, LINEN
• BE CAUTIOUS WITH: NYLON, SYNTHETICS SUCH AS 100% POLYESTER, WOOL

Image credit: Douglas Rissing from Getty Images

This is the best option if you also want some scent to your softened tee. All natural, customizable and gentle – what is not to love!?

SUPPLIES NEEDED:

• Epsom salt
• Essential oils
• Washing Machine

INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1: 
Mix 1 cup of Epsom salt with 10-15 drops of your favorite essential oil.

Step 2:
Add 1-2 tablespoons of the mixture to the rinse cycle.

Step 3:

Dry using your usual preferred method. 
 

How to Soften Shirts With Lemon Juice

• SUITABLE FOR: 100% COTTON, LINEN, MODAL, BAMBOO
• AVOID: SYNTHETICS LIKE POLYESTER OR NYLON, SILK, WOOL
   

Image credit: Joshua Resnick 

If applying directly to the fabric, versus adding to the wash, dilute with water. Also, keep in mind that in addition to softening fabrics, lemon juice helps brighten whiles and removes stains.
 

SUPPLIES NEEDED:

• Lemon juice
• Washing machine
   

INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1:
Add 1/4 to 1/2 cup of lemon juice to the rinse cycle.

Step 2:
Rinse well so that acidic properties do not further impact fabric.

Step 3:
Dry using your usual preferred method.

How to Maintain Softness in Your T-Shirts Over Time

Image credit: Africa images

The keys to optimal softness for shirts over time is the relationship between healthy laundry and storage practices:
 

Laundry Care

• Use gentle detergents and softeners that are gentle and fabric-friendly
• Avoid bleach when possible, as it weakens fabric fibers
  • Use alternative stain removers, such as lemon juice and baking soda
• Set to the “delicate” or “gentle” cycle
• Wash in cold water
• Avoid overloading the washer to prevent unnecessary friction

 

Proper Storage

• Keep in a cool, dry place
• Store neatly either folded, rolled or hanging to avoid unwanted wrinkles
• Rotate between your clothes more often so that they are worn less, resulting in less wear and tear, but still get time outside of the closet

 

Alternatives to Fabric Softener for Softer Shirts

Image credit: Wirestock from Getty Images

There are other ways you can ensure the softest version of your shirt possible. Regularly incorporate these ideas for consistently soft shirts:

Dryer Sheets

• Removes static
• Removes lint and dust
• Adds fragrance
• Makes clothes softer

Wool Dryer Balls

• Use 3-6, depending on dryer and laundry load size
• Naturally fluffs fabric and reduces static
• Speeds up dry time
• Scent with essential oils for fragrance
• Also an alternative to dryer sheets

Cornstarch Spray

• Prevents stiffness that comes after ironing when applied as a pretreatment

Keep Your Shirts Soft and Comfortable

Shirts pictured: Gildan G670 Men's Softstyle CVC T-Shirt

Want to avoid the hassle of trying to make your shirt softer altogether? Skip the steps in this article altogether by implementing the following with your t-shirt habits. 

Damage Prevention

Keep your shirt safe from exposure to things that make them less soft. Prevention is essential to avoid ending up with stiff and scratchy fabric:

• Sea salt
• Hard water
• Pool chemicals
• Moisture
• Dirt, dust and mud
• Overexposure to UV rays
• Excessive heat (drying and ironing)

Investing in High-Quality Clothing

Another way to avoid having to use these methods discussed in this article is to make better buying decisions and invest in premium fabrics, when shopping for your next t-shirt. When investing in t-shirts in the future, some fabrics are softer than others and will not require you to take these softening efforts. Examples of the softest t-shirt fabrics on the market include combed and ringspun cotton, sueded cotton, tri-blends, and jersey knits.

Mind Over Fabrics

Image credit: ladycraftcreatives
 

These nifty techniques for how to soften a shirt can save you lots of time and money. Keep in mind that you may need to run your t-shirts through some of these methods more than once. In other words, don’t be discouraged or too quick to move on to a new method if your t-shirts do not soften to the right degree, right away. Instead, pick just one of these methods and stick to it, repeating the process several times. Even Instyle believes in the at-home methods to soften your tee, so if you take anything away from this, just don’t give up. Tell us which softening method worked best for you in the comments!

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