How to Wash an Embroidered Cotton T-shirt

For Gordina’s embroidered cotton T-shirts, start with the care label: the current product instructions specify a cold machine wash with similar colours. Check the label on your own garment before every wash, particularly if it is a different fabric or a personalised piece.

Before washing

Empty the pockets of other garments and fasten their zips so exposed hardware cannot catch the embroidery. Turn your T-shirt inside out. A laundry bag can help keep the stitched surface away from other items.

Wash gently

Use the cold setting and wash with similar colours. Avoid bleach and harsh rubbing across the embroidered area. Do not pull at a loose thread; contact Gordina with a close-up photograph if a stitch needs attention.

Drying and ironing

Follow the drying instructions on the garment label. For Tattoo Your Tee, the care instructions specify line drying, no tumble drying and no ironing directly on the embroidery. Turn the piece inside out if the label permits ironing, and avoid pressing the raised stitching flat.

Looking after the embroidery

An embroidered motif is made of thousands of small stitches. Washing inside out, keeping it away from rough fabrics and zips, and drying it flat or on a line all help the stitched area keep its shape and colour. Gentle care is what keeps the texture of the thread visible after many wears.

Storing your T-shirt

Fold heavyweight T-shirts rather than leaving them on a hanger for long periods, which can stretch the neckline and shoulders over time. Fold so the embroidery is not creased sharply, and store the piece away from direct sunlight to protect the thread colour.

Is The Poppy cared for in the same way?

The Poppy is a linen tank top, not a cotton T-shirt. Its product instructions specify a 30°C wash. Use its own care label instead of applying the cotton guide automatically.

Frequently asked questions

Will my embroidered T-shirt shrink?

Our cotton T-shirts are preshrunk to minimise shrinkage. Washing cold and skipping the tumble dryer helps them keep their size and shape.

Can I tumble dry it?

Check the label on your garment. For Tattoo Your Tee, the instructions say no tumble drying. Line or flat drying is the gentlest option for embroidery.

Can I iron over the embroidery?

Not directly. If the label allows ironing, turn the garment inside out and avoid pressing on the stitches.

What should I do if a thread comes loose?

Do not pull it or cut it close to the embroidery. Send a close-up photograph to info@gordina.com and we will advise you.

Keep the instructions with the garment

Fabric, decoration and finishes can vary between pieces. The product page and sewn-in label are the references for the item you own. If they appear to disagree, email info@gordina.com before washing.

The Ward cotton T-shirt · The Poppy linen top · Tattoo Your Tee care instructions