5 Tips to Choose a Pure Cotton T-Shirt That Won't Disappoint

Not all cotton T-shirts are created equal. After producing millions of pieces, here are the 5 factors that separate a great cotton tee from a mediocre one.

1. GSM (grams per square meter)

Below 160 GSM: feels cheap, see-through. 180-220 GSM: ideal everyday weight. Above 240 GSM: premium heavyweight.

2. Fiber length (staple)

Long-staple cotton (28mm+) produces smoother, more durable fabric. Short-staple pills easily.

3. Yarn count

Higher count = finer yarn = softer feel. Look for 32s or 40s single yarn.

4. Pre-shrunk treatment

Always. Otherwise your XL becomes M after one wash.

5. Stitching density

Check the side seam: 4 stitches per cm or more = durable. Less = will unravel.