Suddenly they are there. Nobody knows exactly where they come from or why they appear out of nowhere. We're talking about the small holes in our T-shirts, which usually appear in the fabric at the bottom edge at stomach level.
How do these little darn unsightly holes even get there? Have moths eaten their way through our closet? Or does the puzzle have a completely different solution?
We'll show you the most common reasons why holes appear in T-shirts.
Cause No. 1: Buttons, belts, etc.
The most common reason why holes appear in the T-shirt, especially in the stomach area, is the metal buttons on our pants and jeans. If the T-shirt and metal parts rub against each other permanently, this damages the fabric fibers.
The result: The single thin thread from which the shirt is knitted can tear in places and small holes appear. Comparable to running stitches in tights.
Zippers or belt buckles can also have this effect. They also sit at stomach height, are made of metal and have pointed corners and edges. If you move, sit down or even get the shirt hem caught in the zipper, the jersey fabric will become roughened bit by bit and can be damaged.
Due to the movements in the washing machine, the damaged fibers can eventually tear completely and holes appear, which are usually noticed after washing.
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Cause #2: Washing machine
Even if it's not the original culprit, the washing machine can exacerbate the problem with holes in T-shirts. Normally there are no sharp edges to be found in the drum.
However, it can happen that belts or other metal objects damage the drum and create sharp corners. If this is the case, the fabric of the T-shirt can snag and tear.
It also happens that T-shirts come into contact with zippers on other items of clothing when washing. The washed bras with their small metal hooks can also be the culprits.
Tipp:It's best to wash your favorite shirts in a separate laundry bag (here on Amazon*). Bras go in a separate laundry bag. In addition, you should close all zippers on the clothes you are washing in advance.
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Cause #3: Moths
When you think of holes in clothing, you quickly think of moths. However, this is rarely the case with classic T-shirts. Most shirts are made of cotton. Moths, on the other hand, love animal wool. Nevertheless, check your wardrobe for moths and also look at other textiles.
If you find holes in wool items or textiles made from wool blends in “atypical” places, you can spread smells that are unpleasant for moths in your wardrobe. For example, cedar wood, bay leaves, cloves, peppermint or other essential oils have a deterrent effect.
You can order a moth protection set made of cedar wood from Amazon here.*
Why do T-shirts get holes so quickly?
Many of us have old shirts in our closet that are still free of holes even after years of wear. While some newly purchased T-shirts break after just a few weeks. Why is that?
The reason lies in the material from which the tops are made. Many manufacturers today like to produce light jersey qualities. This is not only cheaper for you and increases your margin; Consumers also like the pleasantly airy feeling on the skin and the flowing drape of the thin T-shirt fabrics.
The downside: T-shirts made from light jersey fabrics are more fragile and less durable than denser, heavier knitwear. You read that right! The classic T-shirt fabric, which is particularly elastic, is knitted from a single thread on large machines.
Small holes can be patched
Once the holes are there, they quickly get bigger. The reason for this is the knitting of the jersey fabric from which T-shirts and long sleeves are usually made.
The good news: Small holes can be mended quickly and easily with a needle and thread.You can find suitable instructions on YouTube.
Which t-shirts last longer?
If nothing helps anymore, then the only thing left is:buy new shirts*. When choosing, make sure that the jersey fabric is not too thin. The shirts should feel a little heavier and the fabric should feel smoother and more densely knit.
Models made from washed cotton or particularly light fabrics, for example, are not a good choice if you are looking for robust shirts. Although they feel very soft and delicate, they are more sensitive.
