We're going to be upfront about something: pure natural cotton, without chemical anti-shrink treatments, will experience some shrinkage in the first wash or two. This is the tradeoff for zero chemicals.
Here's what we did about it: we intentionally cut the robe generously. When it arrives, it's meant to feel slightly oversized. After the first wash (cool water, hang dry or tumble dry low), it settles into its intended fit.
After that initial settle, the robe holds. Wash after wash. The waffle weave resists pilling. The seams stay tight. The cotton actually gets softer over time. We built this for years of daily use, not a few months of slowly watching it fall apart.
SIZING TIP: Order your usual size. If you're between sizes, go up. A little extra room in a robe is a luxury. A robe that's too tight isn't.