Do I Wash Hoodies Inside Out? Proven Tips & Best Practices

When it comes to hoodie is a sweatshirt with a hood, usually made from cotton or polyester blends, designed for casual wear and warmth, the way you toss it in the washing machine can make a big difference. You’ve probably wondered whether turning it wash hoodies inside out is worth the extra effort. Below we break down the science, the fabric facts, and the step‑by‑step routine that keeps your hoodie looking fresh, soft, and snag‑free.

Key Takeaways

• Turning a hoodie inside out protects prints, embroidery, and zippers from friction.
• Cotton blends benefit most from an inside‑out wash, while pure polyester can often be washed right‑side‑out.
• Cold water, a gentle cycle, and mild detergent extend garment life.
• Air‑drying is safest, but if you use a dryer, low heat and a laundry bag prevent pilling.
• Skip the inside‑out step for hoodies with delicate trims that could snag on the bag.

Why the Inside‑Out Debate Matters

Friction is the main enemy in a spinning drum. When a hoodie rubs against other clothes, the outer surface-often where logos, prints, or appliqués sit-takes the brunt of the wear. Turning the garment inside out puts that delicate layer on the inside, where it faces less direct contact.

Beyond aesthetics, inside‑out washing reduces pilling on the visible side and keeps the magnetic pull of fleece or brushed interiors intact. The result? Your hoodie stays softer longer and the colors stay vibrant.

Fabric Types and Their Laundry Needs

Not all hoodies are created equal. Knowing what you’re washing helps you decide whether to flip it.

• Cotton is a natural fiber known for breathability and softness. Cotton blends are prone to color fading and pilling on the outer surface, so an inside‑out wash is usually best.
• Polyester is a synthetic fiber that resists shrinking and holds color well. Pure polyester hoodies often survive right‑side‑out washes without noticeable wear.
• Cotton‑polyester blend combines the best of both worlds, but the cotton component still benefits from protection.
• Fleece is a brushed polyester that creates a soft, insulating surface. The brushed side can pill if it rubs against other fabrics, so inside‑out helps.

If your hoodie features delicate embroidery, sequins, or a printed graphic, treat it like a cotton blend-turn it inside out.

Step‑by‑Step Guide to Washing Hoodies Inside Out

1. Check the care label. Look for temperature limits and any special instructions.
2. Close all zippers, snap buttons, and Velcro strips to avoid snagging.
3. Turn the hoodie inside out. Pinch the hem to keep the front panel smooth.
4. Load the washing machine with similar colors. Avoid heavy denim that can cause extra abrasion.
5. Add a mild detergent (liquid works best for cold water). Use the amount recommended for a normal load.
6. Select the delicate cycle or a gentle wash setting. Set water temperature to cold or max 30°C (86°F).
7. Start the machine. The gentle spin reduces mechanical stress on the fabric.
8. When the cycle ends, remove the hoodie promptly to prevent mildew.
9. If you must use a dryer, place the hoodie in a mesh laundry bag, set the dryer to low heat, and tumble for no more than 20‑30 minutes.
10. Otherwise, lay the hoodie flat on a clean towel, reshape it, and air‑dry away from direct sunlight.

Following these steps keeps prints crisp, zippers functional, and fabric soft.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

• Over‑loading the machine: Too many garments increase friction. Keep loads around ¼ full when washing hoodies.
• Using fabric softener: It can coat fleece and reduce its breathability. Skip it for performance fabrics.
• Hot water: Heat can shrink cotton and fade prints. Stick to cold.
• High‑speed spin: Excessive spin forces air into seams, which can stretch the hoodie’s hood.
• Putting a hoodie with a heavy hoodie inside a duvet cover: The weight difference can cause the lighter hoodie to crush.

Dryer vs. Air‑Dry: Which Is Safer?

A dryer is convenient, but heat can shrink cotton fibers and melt certain prints. If you must tumble dry, use a laundry bag made of mesh to cushion the hoodie.

Air‑drying preserves shape and prevents shrinkage. Lay the hoodie flat on a dry towel, reshaping the shoulders and hood. Flip it right‑side‑out after it’s completely dry to avoid creasing the inner side.

When NOT to Turn Your Hoodie Inside Out

Some hoodies have trims that can catch on a bag or other garments when turned inside out-think of delicate faux‑fur cuffs or wired drawstrings. For those pieces, a gentle right‑side‑out wash with a mesh bag works fine.

Also, if the hoodie’s interior is heavily brushed (like a sherpa lining), turning it inside out can cause the soft side to snag on other fabrics, producing small pills on the outer surface.

Pro Tips for Long‑Lasting Hoodies

• Pre‑treat stains with a mild stain remover before washing. Dab, don’t rub.
• Use a short wash cycle; most dirt on hoodies isn’t deep.
• Store hoodies folded on a shelf rather than hanging them; hanging can stretch the shoulders.
• Rotate your hoodie collection. The less often you wash a favorite piece, the longer it stays new.
• Check for colorfastness. Run a quick test with a damp white cloth on an inconspicuous spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

By following these guidelines, you’ll keep your favourite hoodie looking fresh for years. Whether you’re a college student in Bristol or a commuter in London, the right wash routine saves you money and hassle-so you can focus on staying cozy, not worrying about faded prints.