Sanforisation (or Sanforizing®) is a mechanical pre-shrinking process that compresses fabric to prevent significant shrinkage during washing. Developed by Sanford Cluett in 1930.
What It Does
The process:
- Fabric is dampened
- Fed through a rubber belt and heated cylinder
- Mechanically compressed
- Controlled shrinkage occurs before sale
Result: The fabric has already shrunk, so further shrinkage is minimal (less than 1%).
Why It Matters
Untreated cotton can shrink 5-10% when washed. This means:
- Towels that no longer fit towel bars
- Mismatched sets after washing
- Reduced usable size
Sanforised towels maintain their dimensions.
The Trademark
"Sanforized®" is a registered trademark (now owned by Cotton Incorporated). Products must meet shrinkage standards to use the mark.
Generic terms include:
- Pre-shrunk
- Shrinkage controlled
- Compressive shrinkage treated
Common in Towels?
Most quality towels undergo some form of shrinkage control, though it's not always labelled. Budget towels may skip the step.
Related Terms
- Shrinkage - The problem it solves
- Pre-washed - Alternative approach