Tiny holes that appear on T-shirts are caused by friction against metal hardware such as zips and belts, according to a stylist. The explanation comes after a woman asked for help on social media after holes kept appearing on her husband's T-shirts.
Facebook plea for answers
The woman posted in the Facebook group Mrs Hinch Cleaning Tips, which is dedicated to fans of Sophie Hinchliffe. She wrote: "Why does this always happen to my husband's tee shirts? Honestly, he can have a brand new tee on and within a day there are holes. All my clothes are untouched. Any advice would be gratefully received."
She included a picture of her husband's T-shirt in the post. Several people responded with suggestions, with one saying: "I've seen people say it's the zip or belt buckle." Another asked: "Does he wear a belt? My husband has these holes from his. Hope that helps."
Stylist reveals the cause
A third commenter added: "Snap happens to mine – think it's catching on zip of jeans or trousers – that's the only think I can think of?" The mystery was then solved by stylist Alison Gary, who explained the reason is friction against metal hardware like zips or belts.
On her Wardrobe Oxygen website, she wrote: "The pinholes are usually caused by friction against the metal hardware on jeans. Your button, but also the rivets, zipper, and the tough knots of thread around the fly can wear against knit T-shirts."
How to prevent holes
Gary added that working on countertops, standing desks, a heavy crossbody bag, an hour in the washing machine, or a seatbelt can make the holes appear more quickly due to more friction plus body heat. She suggests tucking the top into trousers, even if it is half tucked in, as the best and cheapest prevention method.
Another option is to snap a smooth silicone cover over the jeans button to block sharp metal edges, or to wear a belt that does not cause damage. Crossbody bag straps and rough washing machine cycles can also snag and weaken the lower hem area.
