Fabric Shrinkage in T/C and T/R Fabrics: A Complete Guide for Buyers

When sourcing fabrics globally, fabric shrinkage is an important factor that directly affects garment sizing, product quality, and customer satisfaction. For importers, wholesalers, and garment manufacturers, understanding shrinkage performance helps ensure stable production and reduce sourcing risks.

What Is Fabric Shrinkage?

Fabric shrinkage refers to the dimensional change of fabric after washing or finishing. It is commonly tested under international standards such as:

• AATCC 135
• GB/T 8628 & GB/T 8629

Shrinkage is measured in two directions:

• Warp shrinkage (lengthwise)
• Weft shrinkage (widthwise)

These tests simulate real washing conditions and are widely used in textile quality control for export markets.

T/C Fabric Shrinkage (Polyester Cotton)

T/C fabric is widely used in workwear, uniforms, and shirting fabrics (commonly T/C 65/35 or 80/20).

Typical shrinkage rate:

• Warp: 1.5% – 3.5%
• Weft: 2.0% – 4.0%

After sanforized finishing:

• Warp: 1.5% – 2.5%
• Weft: 2.0% – 3.0%

✔ Stable performance
✔ High durability
✔ Cost-effective for bulk orders

T/R Fabric Shrinkage (Polyester Rayon)

T/R fabric is commonly used for suits, fashion wear, and office clothing (T/R 65/35).

Typical shrinkage rate:

• Warp: 2.5% – 4.5%
• Weft: 3.0% – 5.0%

After sanforized process:

• Weft shrinkage can be controlled within 3%

✔ Soft handfeel
✔ Good drape
✔ Slightly higher shrinkage than T/C

Why Sanforized Finishing Matters

Sanforizing is a pre-shrinking process that improves fabric stability.

Key benefits:

• Reduces shrinkage
• Improves dimensional stability
• Ensures consistent garment sizing
• Meets international export standards

T/C vs T/R Fabric: Key Difference

• T/C fabric: lower shrinkage, stronger stability, ideal for uniforms and workwear
• T/R fabric: softer texture, better drape, ideal for fashion and suits

Conclusion

Fabric shrinkage control is essential for maintaining garment quality and reducing production risks. Choosing the right fabric type and a reliable supplier ensures better stability and fewer after-sales issues.

We provide T/C fabric, T/R fabric, yarn, and greige fabric with strict quality control and stable shrinkage performance.