Getting Staff Clothing Right: A Practical Ordering Checklist
Ordering custom clothing for a team can feel straightforward until the garments arrive and something is off. The fit is wrong, the colour looks different, or the logo placement makes the item unwearable. A little planning before you place the order makes all the difference. This checklist covers the main points to think through so you end up with staff clothing that works for everyone.
Check the Fabric and Quality First
The fabric determines how the garment feels, how it washes, and how long it lasts. Cotton is comfortable and breathable but can shrink or fade. Polyester blends hold colour better and dry faster but may feel less soft. For most staff use, a cotton-polyester mix offers a good balance of comfort and durability. If the clothing will be worn outdoors or during physical work, look for moisture-wicking or heavier-weight materials. Ask for fabric samples if possible. A photo does not tell you how the garment feels against the skin or how it holds up after a few washes.
Check the weight of the fabric too. A lightweight hoodie may be fine for indoor use or mild weather, but if your team works outside or in a cool warehouse, a mid-weight or heavy-weight hoodie will keep them warmer and last longer. Many suppliers list the weight in grams per square metre (gsm). Around 300 gsm is a good standard for a durable hoodie; anything below 200 gsm is quite light. Think about the seasons when the clothing will be worn most.
Get the Sizing Right
Sizing varies widely between brands and even between styles from the same brand. A medium in one hoodie may fit like a large in another. The safest approach is to ask your supplier for a sizing chart and then order a sample in the size you expect most staff will take. Have a few team members try it on. This one step prevents a whole batch being too small or too large.
Consider offering a range of sizes rather than a single option. Staff come in different shapes and heights, and a comfortable fit matters for morale and professionalism. If your team prefers a looser fit for layering, size up. If the clothing is for a smart-casual office look, a more tailored fit may be better. Some suppliers offer unisex sizing, which can be tricky because it tends to fit broader shoulders and a straighter body shape. Check whether the range includes dedicated women's or men's cuts if your team is mixed and wants a better fit.
Choose Colours That Work in Practice
Colour choice is not just about branding. Dark colours hide dirt and wear better, which matters for staff who work in kitchens, workshops, or outdoors. Lighter colours show logos more clearly and can look fresher, but they need more frequent washing. Think about the working environment and how often the clothing will be cleaned.
Also check the actual colour against the supplier's swatch or photo. Screen calibration and lighting can change how a colour appears. If the exact shade matters for your brand, ask for a physical colour sample. Some suppliers offer a Pantone reference, which gives a reliable standard. Remember that colours can fade over time, especially with frequent washing, so a slightly darker shade may hold its look longer.
Decide on Logo Placement and Size
Where the logo goes affects how the garment looks and how practical it is. The most common placement is the left chest, which works well for a subtle brand presence. A larger logo on the back or centre front is more visible but can feel overpowering on a smaller person. Think about what the clothing will be used for. If staff meet customers face to face, a front logo makes sense. If they work behind the scenes, a small chest logo may be enough.
Embroidery and print give different results. Embroidery looks premium and lasts well but can add weight and stiffness to the fabric. It works best on chest areas and on thicker materials. Screen printing is cheaper and softer but can crack over time, especially on areas that stretch or rub. Heat transfer vinyl is another option for small runs or complex designs. Ask your supplier which method suits your garment and design best. Also check the maximum logo size they can produce, and whether they offer placement options like sleeves, cuffs, or hood centres.
Bulk Branded can advise on the most suitable decoration method for your chosen garment, so it is worth discussing your design with them before finalising the order.
Set a Realistic Timeline
Custom clothing takes time to produce, especially if embroidery is involved or if the order is large. A typical lead time is two to four weeks, but it can be longer during busy seasons or if the garment is out of stock. Always order well before you need the clothing. If you need it for a specific event or a new starter intake, add a buffer of at least a week to allow for delivery delays or sizing exchanges.
Check with your supplier what their current production time is and whether they offer a rush service. Also ask about the shipping method and cost, particularly if you are ordering from a different country. Customs clearance can add extra days. Planning ahead avoids stress and gives you time to fix any issues before the deadline.
Think About Care and Longevity
Staff clothing gets washed frequently, so care instructions matter. Look for garments that are machine washable at a normal temperature. Some prints or embroideries require gentle cycles or air drying, which may not be practical for everyone. If the clothing will be laundered in a commercial setting, check that it can handle higher temperatures and stronger detergents.
Also consider how the garment holds up over time. Reinforced seams, double-stitched hems, and quality zippers make a hoodie last longer. A cheap hoodie may save money upfront but could need replacing after a few washes. Spending a little more on better construction often pays off in the long run. If your budget is tight, look for mid-range options rather than the very cheapest.
Review Your Order Before Submitting
Before you confirm the order, double-check every detail. Compare the sizing chart with the quantities you have ordered for each size. Check the colour code, the decoration method, and the logo placement. Make sure the contact and delivery details are correct. If the order is large, ask for a digital proof that shows how the final garment will look. A proof catches mistakes in colour matching, logo size, or placement before production starts.
It is also worth checking the supplier's returns and exchange policy. If something goes wrong, you want to know your options. Most suppliers will correct errors they made, but they may not accept returns for sizing issues if you did not order samples. Knowing the terms beforehand saves disappointment later.
Bulk Branded works with many UK businesses to produce staff clothing that fits and lasts. Their team can guide you through the choices and help you avoid common mistakes. A well-planned order means your team gets clothing they are happy to wear, and your brand looks consistent every day.
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