Which Fabric is Best for Custom T-Shirts?

When choosing custom t-shirts for your business, event, or fashion line, the fabric matters just as much as the design. The wrong fabric can affect comfort, durability, and even how well your print lasts.

The three most common fabrics used in Malaysia for t-shirts are cotton, polyester, and TC (Tetron Cotton blend). Each has its own strengths and weaknesses, depending on your needs.

In this guide, we’ll compare cotton vs. polyester vs. TC so you can make the best choice for your next custom t-shirt order.

Cotton T-Shirts

Pros:

• Soft & Breathable – Perfect for hot Malaysian weather.

• Comfortable – Feels natural against the skin.

• Eco-Friendly Options – Organic cotton is available.

• Works Well with Printing – Especially silkscreen and DTG.

Cons:

• Shrinks After Wash – Unless pre-shrunk.

• Wrinkles Easily – Requires ironing for a neat look.

• Less Durable – May fade faster compared to blends.

Best For: Casual wear, fashion brands, school uniforms, or businesses wanting maximum comfort.

Polyester T-Shirts

Pros:

• Durable & Long-Lasting – Doesn’t shrink or wrinkle easily.

• Moisture-Wicking – Keeps the body cool and dry, great for sportswear.

• Retains Shape – Holds up well after many washes.

• Perfect for Sublimation Printing – Produces bright, full-color prints.

Cons:

• Less Breathable – Can feel warmer compared to cotton.

• Not as Soft – Some people find polyester less comfortable.

Best For: Sports jerseys, outdoor events, corporate uniforms, and promotional tees that need durability.

TC (Tetron Cotton) Blend T-Shirts

What is TC?

TC (Tetron Cotton) is a fabric blend of 65% polyester and 35% cotton. It combines the strengths of both materials — durability from polyester and comfort from cotton.

Pros:

• Durable Yet Comfortable – Balanced feel between softness and strength.

• Affordable – Often cheaper than 100% cotton.

• Wrinkle-Resistant – Easier to maintain than pure cotton.

• Good for Bulk Printing – Popular choice for schools and companies.

Cons:

• Less Soft Than Cotton – Still slightly synthetic to the touch.

• Not Ideal for Sublimation – Since it contains cotton.

Best For: School uniforms, workwear, large corporate orders, and customers needing budget-friendly t-shirts.