Blank tees are wardrobe staples that offer endless versatility. Whether you’re looking for the perfect everyday T-shirt, a blank canvas for your custom designs, or a durable option for heavy-duty use, there’s a blank tee for every need. With a variety of fabrics, fits, and prices to choose from, picking the right one can elevate your wardrobe or business.
Table of Contents
In this guide, we’ll cover the best blank tees, what to look for when choosing one, and answer common questions to help you make the best decision.
What to Look for in the Best Blank Tees
Choosing the right blank tee means considering factors like fabric quality, fit, durability, and price. Here are the key things to keep in mind:
Fabric Quality
The fabric of a blank tee greatly impacts its comfort, durability, and overall feel. Common fabric types include:
- 100% Cotton: Soft, breathable, and ideal for everyday wear. However, it can shrink after washing if not pre-shrunk.
- Cotton/Polyester Blends: Offers the softness of cotton with added durability and wrinkle resistance from polyester. Blends are often less likely to shrink.
- Tri-Blends: A mix of cotton, polyester, and rayon, which makes for an ultra-soft and lightweight tee, perfect for warmer weather.
Each fabric has its pros and cons, but generally, the higher the quality of the fabric, the better it will feel and last over time.
Fit and Style
The fit of the T-shirt is crucial to how it looks and feels on your body. Common fits include:
- Regular Fit: A comfortable, loose fit that works for most body types.
- Slim Fit: A more tailored fit that hugs the body and offers a sleek silhouette.
- Oversized Fit: Great for a relaxed, trendy look.
You’ll also want to choose between crew neck and V-neck styles, depending on your preference. Crew necks are more classic, while V-necks offer a slightly dressier look.
Durability and Stitching
Well-constructed tees with strong stitching can withstand multiple washes without falling apart. Look for brands that offer pre-shrunk fabric to avoid size changes over time. Double-stitched seams and higher thread counts are also indicators of durability.
Price and Value
The price of a blank tee can range from budget-friendly options to higher-end choices. While cheaper options may be tempting, investing in higher-quality tees often means they’ll last longer and maintain their shape and feel, offering better value in the long run.
Best Blank Tees for Every Need
Here are the top picks for blank tees, whether you’re looking for everyday wear, customization, or eco-friendly options.
| Brand & Model | Key Features | Why It’s Great |
|---|---|---|
| Bella + Canvas 3001 | Lightweight, soft cotton, side-seamed | Premium feel with a modern fit, perfect for customization. |
| Gildan 5000 Heavy Cotton Tee | Durable, classic fit, affordable | Great value for everyday use and bulk orders. |
| Next Level 3600 | 100% combed cotton, pre-shrunk, slim fit | Superior softness with a sleek, tailored look. |
| Hanes Nano-T | Ultra-lightweight, tagless label | Comfortable and budget-friendly with a modern fit. |
| Fruit of the Loom HD Cotton | Dense weave, vibrant colors | Excellent for screen printing with durable material. |
| Comfort Colors 1717 | Garment-dyed, heavyweight cotton | Vintage look and feel with long-lasting comfort. |
| American Apparel 2001 | Lightweight, soft feel, unisex fit | Classic, high-quality tee ideal for customization. |
| Carhartt K87 Workwear Tee | Heavyweight cotton, pocket design | Rugged and durable, perfect for work environments. |
| Champion T525C Heritage Tee | Athletic fit, signature “C” logo | A sporty option with iconic branding. |
| Jerzees 29M Dri-Power Tee | Moisture-wicking, blend of cotton/polyester | Ideal for activewear and keeps you cool and dry. |
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Best Overall Blank Tees
Bella+Canvas 3001
The Bella+Canvas 3001 is a top contender for the best overall blank tee. Made from airlume combed and ring-spun cotton, it’s incredibly soft, lightweight, and fits well. It’s available in a wide range of colors and sizes, making it a versatile choice for both casual wear and custom printing.
Gildan 5000 Heavy Cotton Tee
If you’re looking for an affordable, durable option, the Gildan 5000 is a solid choice. It’s made from heavy cotton, making it a bit thicker and sturdier than some other tees, yet comfortable for everyday use. It’s a popular option for screen printing and DIY projects.
Best Blank Tees for Custom Printing
| Feature | Next Level 3600 | American Apparel 2001 |
|---|---|---|
| Material | 100% combed ringspun cotton | 100% fine jersey cotton |
| Fabric Weight | 4.3 oz (lightweight) | 4.3 oz (lightweight) |
| Fit | Slim fit with modern tailoring | Unisex, slightly relaxed fit |
| Softness | Extremely soft, pre-shrunk for comfort | Soft with a slightly structured feel |
| Customization Compatibility | Ideal for screen printing and DTG printing | Excellent for screen printing and DTG printing |
| Durability | Good, holds shape after multiple washes | High, retains softness and structure over time |
| Color Range | Wide variety of trendy and basic colors | Extensive range of classic and unique shades |
| Tag Style | Tear-away tag | Sewn-in tag |
| Price Range | Budget-friendly | Slightly more expensive |
| Best For | Casual wear, slim-fitting, budget customization | High-end feel, versatile style, and branding |
Next Level 3600
The Next Level 3600 is a favorite for custom printing, thanks to its smooth surface and quality fabric blend. Made from 100% combed cotton, it’s ideal for screen printing, heat transfers, and direct-to-garment printing, ensuring your designs come out vibrant and sharp.
American Apparel 2001
Known for its high-quality construction and soft fabric, the American Apparel 2001 is a great blank tee for customization. It’s lightweight, made from fine jersey cotton, and offers excellent ink absorption for sharp, detailed prints.
Best Sustainable Blank Tees
Alternative Apparel Eco-Jersey Tee
For eco-conscious shoppers, the Alternative Apparel Eco-Jersey Tee is a top pick. Made from a blend of organic cotton, recycled polyester, and rayon, it’s both comfortable and environmentally friendly. It has a soft, vintage feel and is perfect for those looking for sustainable fashion choices.
Pact Organic Cotton Tee
Pact offers another great sustainable option with its organic cotton tees. These tees are made from 100% organic cotton, grown without harmful chemicals. Pact is committed to fair trade and ethical production, making it a responsible choice for those who prioritize sustainability.
Best Budget-Friendly Blank Tees
| Feature | Hanes ComfortSoft Tee | Fruit of the Loom HD Cotton Tee |
|---|---|---|
| Material | 100% preshrunk cotton | 100% preshrunk cotton |
| Fabric Weight | 5.2 oz (midweight) | 5.0 oz (lightweight) |
| Fit | Relaxed, classic fit | Traditional fit with slightly tighter sleeves |
| Softness | Extra soft due to ComfortSoft fabric | Smooth finish with a soft touch |
| Customization Compatibility | Good for screen printing and embroidery | Excellent for screen printing, vibrant colors |
| Durability | High, retains shape and softness after washing | Moderate, suitable for casual wear |
| Tag Style | Tagless for added comfort | Tear-away tag for easy branding |
| Color Range | Limited, mostly basic colors | Wide range, including vibrant and trendy shades |
| Price Range | Very budget-friendly | Budget-friendly |
| Best For | Everyday comfort, tag-free wear | Affordable bulk orders and color versatility |
Hanes ComfortSoft Tee
If you’re looking for a blank tee on a budget, the Hanes ComfortSoft Tee is hard to beat. It offers comfort and durability at an affordable price, making it great for bulk orders or casual everyday wear.
Fruit of the Loom HD Cotton Tee
The Fruit of the Loom HD Cotton Tee is another budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality. It’s lightweight, breathable, and available in a wide range of colors, making it a good choice for casual wear or screen printing.
Best Blank Tees for Heavy-Duty Wear
Carhartt Workwear Pocket Tee
For those who need a durable, heavy-duty option, the Carhartt Workwear Pocket Tee is designed for tough conditions. Made from thick cotton, it’s perfect for work environments, with reinforced stitching for added durability.
Dickies Heavyweight Tee
The Dickies Heavyweight Tee is another excellent choice for rugged use. It’s made to withstand rough wear while still offering comfort, making it ideal for work or outdoor activities.
How to Choose the Right Blank Tee for Your Needs
| Criteria | Consider This | Best Options |
|---|---|---|
| Fabric Material | For softness, choose combed cotton. For durability, pick cotton-polyester blends or tri-blends. | Bella + Canvas 3001, Next Level 3600, Hanes Nano-T |
| Fit Style | Slim fit for a modern look; relaxed fit for casual comfort; unisex for versatility. | Next Level 3600 (Slim Fit), Hanes ComfortSoft (Relaxed Fit) |
| Customization Needs | For screen printing or DTG, ensure smooth cotton or blends. Vibrant colors hold better on dense fabric. | Fruit of the Loom HD Cotton, Gildan 5000, American Apparel 2001 |
| Fabric Weight | Lightweight for summer; midweight or heavyweight for durability and cooler climates. | Comfort Colors 1717 (Heavyweight), Gildan 5000 (Midweight) |
| Budget | Choose budget-friendly options for bulk orders or higher-end for premium quality. | Gildan 5000 (Affordable), Bella + Canvas 3001 (Premium Budget) |
| Tag Preference | Tear-away tags for easy rebranding; tagless for comfort. | Hanes ComfortSoft (Tagless), Next Level 3600 (Tear-away Tag) |
| Durability | Look for pre-shrunk cotton or blends that maintain shape after washing. | Hanes ComfortSoft, Carhartt K87 |
| Color Options | Wide ranges are great for customization or creating a signature look. | Fruit of the Loom HD Cotton, Comfort Colors 1717 |
| Purpose | Everyday wear, workwear, or promotional use. | Carhartt K87 (Workwear), Jerzees 29M (Activewear), Gildan 5000 |
| Eco-Friendliness | For sustainable options, choose organic or ethically sourced materials. | Bella + Canvas 3001, American Apparel 2001 |
Purpose: Casual Wear vs. Customization
Your reason for buying blank tees will determine the best option. If you’re looking for something comfortable to wear daily, a soft cotton tee like Bella+Canvas 3001 might be the way to go. If you need tees for customization, go for options with smooth, high-quality fabrics like the Next Level 3600 or American Apparel 2001.
Size and Fit Considerations
Fit is key when choosing a blank tee. Always check the size chart for the brand, and consider how the tee fits in terms of length, chest width, and sleeve length. Some brands may run small, so it’s important to read reviews or try them on if possible.
Fabric Preferences: Cotton, Blends, or Synthetics?
When choosing between 100% cotton, blends, or synthetic fabrics, think about what’s most important to you. Cotton is breathable and soft, blends offer more durability, and synthetics like polyester are great for moisture-wicking and active wear.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the best blank tees for screen printing?
The Next Level 3600 and Bella+Canvas 3001 are top choices for screen printing due to their smooth surfaces and high-quality fabrics, which allow for vibrant, long-lasting prints.
Which blank tees are the softest?
If you’re looking for super soft tees, the Bella+Canvas 3001 and American Apparel 2001 are known for their soft, comfortable fabric.
What are the most durable blank tees?
For durability, the Carhartt Workwear Pocket Tee and Dickies Heavyweight Tee are some of the most rugged and long-lasting options on the market.
Are there any eco-friendly blank tees?
Yes, eco-friendly options like the Alternative Apparel Eco-Jersey Tee and Pact Organic Cotton Tee are made from sustainable materials and produced under ethical practices.
How do I find the right size for blank tees?
It’s important to consult the size charts provided by each brand and take into account any reviews regarding fit. Some brands also offer pre-shrunk fabrics, which helps with sizing consistency after washing.
Conclusion
Blank tees are a versatile wardrobe essential, whether you’re looking for casual comfort, something to customize, or a heavy-duty option for work. High-quality choices like Bella+Canvas, Next Level, and American Apparel offer a balance of comfort, style, and durability, while eco-friendly brands like Alternative Apparel provide sustainable options. By considering fabric, fit, and purpose, you can find the best blank tee for your needs, whether it’s for everyday wear, custom printing, or something in between.
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