Holes in Undershirts – Causes and Tips
Holes in an undershirt usually do not appear without a reason. In most cases, there is a clear cause – ranging from friction and improper care to clothes moths.
Once you know the cause, you can take targeted steps to help prevent further damage and extend the life of your underwear.
Short answer
Holes in undershirts are usually caused by friction, material wear, improper care or – especially with natural fibres such as wool – clothes moth larvae.
The most common causes of holes in undershirts
1. Everyday friction
Mechanical stress is one of the most common causes:
- friction from a waistband or belt
- everyday movement such as sitting or walking
- tight clothing worn over the undershirt
A typical sign is that holes repeatedly appear in the same areas, for example around the stomach or underarms.
2. Friction during washing
Underwear can also be damaged in the washing machine by zips, buttons, hook-and-loop fasteners or rivets on other garments.
3. Perspiration and deodorant around the underarms
Holes around the underarms can develop through a combination of perspiration, deodorant and friction. Certain deodorants can place additional stress on the fibres.
Find out more: Yellow stains under the arms
Holes caused by clothes moths
If holes appear in different places without an obvious cause, clothes moths may be responsible. Clothes moths can also occur in very clean homes and are not a sign of poor hygiene. Natural animal fibres such as merino wool are particularly attractive to clothes moth larvae.
Typical signs of moth damage
- irregular holes with slightly frayed edges
- holes spread across several areas
- no obvious connection with typical friction zones
Typical holes caused by clothes moth larvae:
Tips for dealing with clothes moths: How to identify and control clothes moths
More detailed information: Merino wool and holes in undershirts
Holes shortly after purchase – what could be the cause?
If holes appear after only a short period of use, weakened fibres may be one possible cause. If the damage occurs soon after purchase and there is no obvious external cause, please contact us – we will review the case and find an appropriate solution.
How can you help prevent holes in undershirts?
- wash underwear separately or with similar fabrics
- wash garments inside out
- avoid contact with zips, hook-and-loop fasteners and hard materials
- avoid aggressive laundry products
- dry underwear gently
Find out more: How to wash underwear properly and How to dry underwear properly.
Frequently asked questions
Why do holes keep appearing in the same place?
This is usually caused by recurring friction, for example from a belt, waistband or everyday movement.
Are holes always a quality defect?
Not necessarily. They are often caused by wear, material properties, friction or care. However, if holes appear shortly after purchase without an obvious external cause, the issue should be reviewed.
Why are merino undershirts more attractive to clothes moths?
Merino wool is an animal-based natural fibre and can therefore serve as a food source for clothes moth larvae.
Personal advice
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