Garment-dyed clothing is an investment. The process produces pieces with natural color variation, a broken-in feel, and a character that deepens with wear. But to keep that character intact — and avoid premature fading or shrinkage — you need to care for it correctly. Here's everything you need to know.
Why Garment-Dyed Fabric Needs Special Care
Unlike conventionally dyed fabric, garment-dyed pieces have dye that sits closer to the surface of the fiber. This is what gives them their distinctive, slightly uneven look — but it also means they're more sensitive to heat, agitation, and harsh detergents than standard cotton tees.
The good news: caring for garment-dyed clothing is simple once you know the rules.
Washing
Always Wash Cold
Cold water is your best friend. Hot water causes the dye to release faster, accelerating fading and potentially causing the garment to shrink. Set your machine to cold or cool and leave it there.
Turn Inside Out
Before every wash, turn your garment-dyed tee inside out. This protects the outer surface — where the graphic print and the most visible dye sits — from friction against other garments and the drum of the washing machine.
Use a Gentle Cycle
High-agitation cycles are hard on any fabric, but especially on garment-dyed pieces. Use the gentle or delicate cycle to minimize mechanical stress.
Choose the Right Detergent
Use a mild, color-safe detergent. Avoid anything with bleach or optical brighteners — these will strip the dye and flatten the natural variation that makes garment-dyed fabric special. A small amount of detergent goes a long way.
Wash with Similar Colors
Garment-dyed pieces can bleed slightly, especially in the first few washes. Wash with similar colors to avoid any transfer onto lighter garments.
Drying
Air Dry When Possible
The dryer is the single biggest threat to garment-dyed clothing. High heat causes shrinkage, accelerates fading, and breaks down the fabric faster than any other factor. Air drying — either flat or on a hanger — is always the better option.
If You Must Use a Dryer
Use the lowest heat setting available. Remove the garment while it's still slightly damp and let it finish air drying. Never over-dry garment-dyed pieces.
Storing
Store garment-dyed tees folded rather than hung. Hanging heavy cotton on a hanger over time can stretch the neckline and distort the shoulder seams. Fold and stack in a drawer or on a shelf.
Keep out of direct sunlight during storage — UV exposure fades dye even when the garment isn't being worn.
What to Expect Over Time
Some fading is natural and expected with garment-dyed clothing — and that's part of the appeal. A well-worn garment-dyed tee develops a patina that a brand-new piece doesn't have. The color softens, the fabric gets even more comfortable, and the piece starts to feel truly yours.
PRB tees are designed to age well. Follow these care guidelines and your piece will be a wardrobe staple for years.
Shop PRB Garment-Dyed Tees
Ready to invest in a piece built to last? Shop the Egyptian Ankh Warrior Tee or browse the full PRB collection. #PowerRunsBlack