We’ve all been there. You buy a nice new shirt, throw it in the laundry, and it shrinks! Clothes shrinking can be really frustrating, but it’s not unavoidable. No matter if it’s cotton, wool, or synthetic fabrics, you can take easy steps to prevent shrinkage. Here’s everything you need to know to keep your clothes in top condition.
1. Tailor Your Approach: Shrinkage Rates for Different Materials
We need to tailor our approach. Not all materials shrink in the same way, and knowing what you’re working with can save you a lot of trouble.
Cotton and wool shrink easily because of their fiber structure. Cotton fibers expand when wet, and hot water or high heat makes them shrink. Wool fibers have scales that rub together in hot water, causing them to shrink. If your wardrobe contains a lot of cotton and wool garments, it’s best to wash them with care.
Synthetic fabrics are made from chemical fibers. They’re durable, resist wrinkles, and are easy to clean. They shrink less than natural fabrics, but wrong washing can still make them shrink. Therefore, even with these more durable fabrics, careful maintenance is still required.
Tip: Simply check the care label on the garment to determine its composition and how to properly care for it.
2. How to prevent clothes from shrinking during washing
Using the correct washing method can effectively prevent clothes from shrinking. Here are some effective methods to prevent shrinkage during washing.
Wash in cold water
One of the simplest ways to prevent clothes from shrinking is to wash them in cold water. Hot water damages fibers, causing them to shrink. This is why most clothes shrink after washing. Cold water prevents this, helping to keep clothes in shape, especially cotton and wool. When washing clothes, you can choose water below 20°C to reduce the damage caused by heat to the fibers. Additionally, cold water is better for the environment and your energy bill.
Choose a gentle cycle
Shrinkage happens when the fiber structure breaks down. To avoid this, don’t damage the fabric. When using a washing machine, select a gentle cycle. This reduces friction and protects the fibers. It’s especially helpful for delicate fabrics like wool, silk, or stretchy clothes. The gentler the wash, the less likely your clothes are to shrink.
Don’t overload the washing machine. It’s tempting to pack in lots of clothes, but too many can lead to uneven washing. This can lead to uneven shrinkage or stretching in certain areas of the garment. Ensure there is enough space for the clothes to move freely.
3. Tips for drying after washing
The way you dry clothes has a significant impact on whether they shrink. Choosing the right drying method is crucial for preventing shrinkage.
Air-drying outdoors
Air-drying involves allowing moisture to evaporate naturally at room temperature. Hang clothes on a clothesline or lay them flat on a drying rack. This helps keep their shape without the heat from a dryer. If you live in a dry climate, like in the Western U.S., air-drying works especially well. Just make sure to hang the clothes in a well-ventilated area. However, avoid direct sunlight, as it can cause the clothes to fade.
Avoid using a dryer
The high temperatures produced by tumble dryers are one of the main causes of shrinkage. If you must use a dryer, avoid high-heat settings, as high heat can cause fibers to shrink. Use a low-heat setting or the “air-dry” function, which tumbles the clothes without heat. Once the clothes are dry, take them out right away to avoid over-drying, which can lead to more shrinkage.
Tip: For clothes prone to shrinking, avoid using a dryer altogether. Air-drying is always safer.
4. Special Fabrics and Their Care
Some fabrics require special care to prevent shrinkage. Here are ways to protect these sensitive materials:
Wool and Cashmere
Wool and cashmere are soft and comfortable, but they are also prone to shrinking. The best way to care for these fabrics is to hand wash them in cold water using a mild detergent. If you prefer machine washing, use a wool cycle or place the garments in a mesh laundry bag to protect them. Remember to air-dry rather than tumble dry. For items like wool sweaters or scarves, dry them flat to maintain their shape.
Stretch Fabrics
Stretchy fabrics, like spandex or elastic, can lose their shape with high heat. While they are less likely to shrink, improper drying can cause them to lose their elasticity. To maintain their shape, wash them in cold water and air-dry.
5. Practical Tips for Daily Use
Some good habits during washing can also help protect our clothes from shrinking.
Turn clothes inside out before washing. This protects the outer fibers and reduces wear. For clothes with zippers or buttons, fasten them to avoid damage. When washing, separate heavier fabrics from lighter clothes.
Know your fabrics and use the right washing and drying methods. This helps prevent shrinking. Wash in cold water, choose a gentle cycle, don’t overload the machine, and air-dry when possible. Fabrics like wool or stretchy materials need more care. But with these tips, your clothes will last longer.