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: 1. Fabric is dampened 2. Fed through a rubber belt and heated cylinder 3. Mechanically compressed 4. 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