Does FIR Clothing Shrink in The Dryer?

With the rise of health-conscious and active lifestyles, FIR fabrics have become a popular choice in modern clothing. Yet, one of the most common concerns among users is: Does FIR clothing shrink in the dryer?

As Hitek’s patented SiTEX® FIR functional fabric, it permanently integrates natural minerals into dual-layer yarns, ensuring long-term stability in both fit and far-infrared performance. Understanding FIR clothing shrinkage requires a multidimensional approach, considering fiber composition, yarn structure, and care methods. This article explores why SiTEX® FIR clothing maintains its shape and performance even after repeated wear and drying.

Understanding FIR Fabric and SiTEX® Technology

FIR fabric (Far Infrared Fabric) is a functional textile that absorbs and reflects body heat, supporting blood circulation, temperature regulation, and overall comfort. Hitek’s SiTEX® is a patented technology that permanently embeds over 20 types of natural minerals into yarn, creating a dual-layer structure. Compared to ordinary far-infrared functional fabrics (Far Infrared Functional Fabric), SiTEX® maintains its far-infrared performance and shape even after repeated washing and drying.

It is important to note that only SiTEX® provides a 4–16 µm far-infrared wavelength, perfectly resonating with the human body. Most commercial FIR fabrics operate within 4–14 µm.

Thanks to SiTEX® technology, Hitek’s FIR functional apparel—from Far Infrared Sportswear, Far Infrared Underwear, Far Infrared Sleepwear to Far Infrared Compression Wear and Far Infrared Warming Apparel—offers stable, comfortable wear while minimizing shrinkage risk.

Why FIR Clothing Can Shrink

Shrinkage in textiles generally occurs due to heat, moisture, and mechanical stress. For FIR clothing, shrinkage risk is influenced by several factors:

• Fiber Composition – Polyester blends used in Hitek FIR fabrics are inherently shrink-resistant.

• Yarn Structure – SiTEX®’s patented dual-layer mineral yarn adds structural stability, minimizing shrinkage.

• Fabric Treatment – FIR fabrics with chemical coatings may shrink slightly under high heat.

• Heat Exposure – Excessive dryer heat can cause fiber stress, especially in non-SiTEX® fabrics.

How SiTEX® Minimizes Shrinkage

Hitek’s innovation ensures that FIR clothing maintains its original size:

• Dual-layer yarns: Outer layer protection and inner core stability prevent fiber deformation under heat or stress.

• Permanent mineral integration: Far-infrared minerals embedded in the yarn retain their properties and stabilize the fabric structure.

• Polyester blend: Heat-resistant and mechanically resilient for long-term wear.

• Rigorous testing: Every SiTEX® garment undergoes multiple washing and drying cycles to confirm fit and shape retention.

In practice, SiTEX® FIR clothing experiences minimal shrinkage under medium or low-heat drying, preserving the original fit and comfort.

Practical Tips to Prevent FIR Clothing Shrinkage

Even with stable SiTEX® FIR fabrics, proper care extends garment lifespan:

• Follow care labels: Check recommended temperature and drying instructions.

• Low-heat drying or air-drying: Avoid excessive heat stress.

• Gentle washing programs: Reduce fiber stretching and wear.

• Avoid harsh chemicals: Fabric softeners or bleach may affect fiber structure or mineral efficacy.

• Special care for close-fitting garments: Far Infrared underwear or compression wear should ideally be air-dried to maintain fit.

User tip: After workouts, air-drying Far Infrared Sportswear maximizes comfort and health benefits.

SiTEX® vs. Other FIR Fabrics: Shrinkage Comparison

The comparison shows that Hitek’s SiTEX® FIR clothing not only focuses on health benefits but also guarantees comfort and long-term dimensional stability.

FAQ: FIR Clothing Shrinkage

Q1: Will FIR clothing shrink in the dryer?

A1: Garments made from SiTEX® FIR fabric are highly shrink-resistant due to dual-layer mineral yarns and polyester blends. Medium or low-heat drying preserves the original dimensions.

Q2: Why do some FIR garments shrink more than others?

A2: Shrinkage depends on fiber composition, yarn structure, and mineral integration. Single-layer FIR fabrics or surface-coated fabrics are more prone to shrinkage, unlike Hitek’s patented SiTEX®.

Q3: Will high-temperature washing affect FIR performance?

A3: SiTEX®’s far-infrared effect remains intact under high-temperature washing, but low-heat drying or air-drying is recommended to prolong garment life and maintain fit.

Q4: Are all FIR fabrics shrink-resistant?

A4: No. Only garments with permanently integrated minerals and carefully engineered yarns (like SiTEX®) minimize shrinkage and maintain long-term performance.

Q5: How should close-fitting FIR garments be dried?

A5: Low-heat drying or air-drying preserves the fit and compression properties of sportswear, underwear, and recovery wear.

Conclusion: Enjoy FIR Clothing Without Worry

Shrinkage is a concern for all textiles, but Hitek’s SiTEX® FIR functional fabric ensures maximum dimensional stability through patented dual-layer mineral yarns and thoughtful material selection. Whether it’s Far Infrared Sportswear, Sleepwear, Compression Wear, or Warming Apparel, users can confidently enjoy comfortable fit and long-lasting far-infrared benefits.

Hitek is committed to creating functional apparel that connects with your body, delivering both comfort and wellness in every wear.