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Washing UPF Clothing Without Ruining the Sun Protection
Washing UPF Clothing Without Ruining the Sun Protection
It's a strange thought the first time it occurs to you, could washing actually undo the one feature you bought the shirt for in the first place? For some fabric, the answer is a little bit yes, and it's worth knowing which habits are the culprit.
The short answer: UPF built into the fabric itself, not a chemical coating, holds up through normal washing. Sun protective clothing generally holds its rating well with basic care, but fabric softener and high heat are the two things most likely to degrade any protective fabric's performance over time.
Why fabric softener is the sneakier culprit
Fabric softener coats fibers with a residue that can reduce breathability and, over many washes, wear down the tight weave that a UPF fabric depends on. It's easy to use out of habit without realizing it's working against the fabric's job.
Why high heat matters more than most people think
High heat in both washing and drying can break down fiber structure faster over time. Cold water and lower heat settings are a small habit change that meaningfully extends how long any technical fabric performs as intended.
What to actually do instead
Wash cold, skip the fabric softener, and air dry or use low heat when possible. This is exactly the care routine we recommend for the ONE Shirt, and it applies to most fabric-based UPF clothing generally, not just ours.
Quick FAQ
Does UPF wash out eventually?
Fabric-based UPF, built into the weave and fiber rather than a coating, doesn't wash out the way a chemical treatment can degrade over time.
How do I know if my shirt's UPF is fabric-based or a coating?
Check with the brand directly, worth asking before you buy if it isn't stated clearly.
Is dry cleaning safer than regular washing?
Not necessarily, the chemicals used in some dry cleaning processes can be just as hard on protective fabric as high heat.
How often should I actually wash UPF clothing?
As often as needed for cleanliness, the care habit matters more than the frequency.
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