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In this guide, we’ll cover everything from fabric options to customisation potential, helping you find top-quality work shirts that meet your team’s needs.
Need help finding the perfect shirt for your team? Book a free workwear consultation today.
A well-chosen work t-shirt does more than provide basic comfort. Whether you’re outfitting employees of a construction site, retail store, or office environment, the perfect t-shirt needs to be based around functionality, which is why things like the material used, and the fit of the shirt itself matter so much.
Different industries have different requirements. For example, construction teams may require more durable, breathable t-shirts, while customer-facing roles in retail or hospitality may require formal and customisable options. No matter the industry, a well-made work shirt is an important investment to make.
When selecting a t-shirt for work, there are several factors to keep in mind to ensure it meets the needs of your team and work environment. Here are the key features to consider:
Fit
Making sure your work shirt fits well is very important. We all know that feeling when we try on a shirt for the first time and you can barely move because the shirt was so tightly fitting. Or on the other extreme, you try a shirt on for the first time and it fits like something someone double your height would wear.
We’ve made a list below on what the most common fit/sizes we commonly see:
Regular Fit: A versatile style that suits most body types, offering ease of movement without appearing oversized. An excellent example is the Cooltex® Plus Wicking Tee.
Slim Fit: Provides a more tailored look, ideal for customer-facing roles. Such as this Henbury Performance T-Shirt.
Relaxed Fit: Prioritises comfort and freedom of movement, perfect for physically demanding jobs like construction or warehousing. A perfect example is the Stanley/Stella Freestyler T-Shirt.
Cotton: Breathable and soft, but prone to wrinkling. Best for indoor or light-use roles.
Polyester: Durable, moisture-wicking, and resistant to shrinking, though less breathable than cotton. Great for active or outdoor roles.
Blends: A mix of cotton and polyester combines the softness of cotton with the durability of polyester, making it a versatile option.
Sustainable Options: Organic cotton and recycled materials are eco-friendly choices that align with corporate responsibility goals.
Durability
We would recommend looking for reinforced stitching and heavier fabric weights for jobs that involve wear and tear. Durable t-shirts often withstand frequent washing and daily use while maintaining their shape and quality.
Moisture-Wicking Properties
In active or outdoor roles, moisture-wicking t-shirts can help regulate your body temperature by drawing sweat away from the skin.
Customisation Potential
For branding purposes, choose materials that are suitable for embroidery, printing, or heat transfers. Polyester and blends often work best for customisation, as they maintain their shape and colour during the process.
Industry-Specific Needs
We understand that every workplace has unique demands, therefore we have listed below what t-shirt features are best for different industries. For instance:
Construction and logistics: Durable, breathable t-shirts with reinforced stitching.
Retail and hospitality: Formal, professional-looking options that have customisation potential.
Office environments: Lightweight and polished t-shirts that complement professional attire.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) The Best Fabrics for Work T-Shirts
Choosing the right fabric for the job is crucial for making sure you and your team are comfortable, and that the shirt itself can live up to the requirements of the industry. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular materials and their pros and cons.
Cotton
Cotton is a natural fibre known for its softness and breathability, which makes it a great choice for long workdays. However, cotton tends to wrinkle and absorb moisture, which can make it feel heavy during physical activity or in humid conditions. This makes it better suited for indoor or light-use roles, such as office work or retail environments.
Polyester
Polyester is a durable and low-maintenance synthetic fabric. It’s resistant to wrinkles, shrinking, and stretching, making it ideal for jobs that require frequent movement or outdoor exposure. Its moisture-wicking properties help keep workers dry, even in active or outdoor roles. However, polyester isn’t as breathable as cotton and can feel less natural, which may not be ideal for all wearers.
Cotton-Polyester Blends
Blended fabrics combine the softness of cotton with the durability of polyester. These t-shirts are more durable than pure cotton and maintain their shape and colour after repeated washes. While they may not be as breathable as 100% cotton, they strike a balance between the comfort of cotton and the practicality of polyester, making them a great choice for customer-facing roles or hospitality.
Sustainable Fabrics
Eco-conscious options like organic cotton or recycled materials are gaining popularity for their environmental benefits. These fabrics offer similar comfort and durability to traditional options while aligning with corporate sustainability goals. While they can be more expensive, they’re an excellent choice for companies aiming to reduce their environmental footprint.
Customising and Personalising Your Work T-Shirt
Customising your work shirt by adding logos or designs not only makes your team look more professional but also improves brand visibility, as more people are likely to see your logo and remember your company, which is why a good first impression matters!
Brand Identity
Custom t-shirts prominently display your company logo, making sure your team represents the business wherever they go. This is especially valuable in customer-facing roles or at events.
Team Unity
Matching uniforms can create a cohesive and professional appearance, fostering team spirit and helping employees feel like part of a unified group.
Professionalism
Branded t-shirts improve the perception of your company amongst the public, giving employees a polished and professional look that builds trust with clients and customers.
Embroidery
Best For: Durable fabrics like cotton and blends.
Advantages: Long-lasting and resistant to wear; creates a professional finish.
Considerations: Best for smaller logos or text.
Screen Printing
Best For: Larger designs or bold logos.
Advantages: Cost-effective for bulk orders, can add vibrant and detailed designs to your shirt.
Considerations: Less durable on heavy-use garments, particularly after multiple washes.
Heat Transfer Printing
Best For: Complex designs or limited-run customisations.
Advantages: Ideal for detailed, multi-colour prints; versatile for different fabrics.
Considerations: May wear off faster with frequent washing.
Why Choose CTS UK for Your Workwear Personalisation Needs?
We specialise in offering high-quality branded workwear, and then personalising that piece of workwear to your needs and specifications. Whatever you are looking for, our expert team makes sure your company’s branding is integrated into your uniforms in a professional, and cost-effective manner.
When selecting a work t-shirt, focus on fit, comfort, and durability. The ideal t-shirt should suit the demands of your workplace and make sure that movement isn't restricted. Fabric choice is key too, opt for cotton or blends for breathability, or polyester for durability in high-activity roles. Additional features, like moisture-wicking properties, can be a game-changer for active or outdoor environments.
To keep your work t-shirt looking fresh and professional:
Follow Fabric Instructions: Always check the care label. Most work t-shirts can be machine-washed, but fabric types may require specific settings.
Avoid Harsh Detergents: Use mild, non-bleach detergents to preserve colours and printed or embroidered logos.
Low Heat Drying: Air dry or use a low heat setting to prevent shrinking or damage to printed designs.
Turn Inside Out: Washing printed or embroidered shirts inside out protects designs from friction or fading.
Recommended Article: How to Wash a Printed T-Shirt Without Fading
Finding the right size is very important. As we all know, the difference between a well-fitting work shirt, and a poorly fitting work shirt is night and day.
Measure Accurately: Use a tape measure to record chest and waist dimensions. Compare these with the sizing chart provided by the manufacturer.
Consider Movement: Choose a size that allows for flexibility, especially if your job involves physical activity.
Think About Layering: If you’ll be layering your t-shirt under jackets or sweaters, consider a slightly looser fit for added comfort.
Choosing the right work t-shirt is all about ensuring comfort, durability, and functionality. Whether you prioritise breathable cotton for comfort, polyester for durability, or blends for versatility, the right fabric and fit can make a significant difference in day-to-day performance.
Here at CTS UK, we offer a wide range of high-quality work t-shirts and customisation services tailored to meet the unique needs of your business.
Need help? Book your free workwear consultation today to find the perfect fit for you and your team.
