Introduction
Clothing shrinkage is something that everyone should be aware of when doing laundry. It can be frustrating to find that once-perfectly-fitting shirt no longer fits after one wash. Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to prevent this from happening. Here are 8 tips for keeping your clothes from shrinking.
Avoid Using Hot Water When Washing Clothes
Hot water can cause fabrics to shrink, so it’s best to avoid using it when washing your clothes. Cold water is the safest option as it won’t cause any damage to the fabric. Some fabrics, such as wool and silk, should only be washed in cold water. Other fabrics, such as cotton and polyester, can be washed in warm or cold water.
Always Use a Gentle Cycle When Washing Clothes
Using a gentle cycle when washing clothes will help to prevent them from shrinking. The gentle cycle uses less energy and puts less stress on the fabric, which helps to keep it from shrinking. Delicate fabrics, such as silk and lace, should always be washed on a gentle cycle. Other fabrics, such as cotton and polyester, can be washed on a normal cycle.
Use Cold Water to Rinse Clothes and Avoid Wringing Them Out
Rinsing clothes in cold water will help to keep them from shrinking. After rinsing, avoid wringing out the water as this may cause the fabric to stretch and shrink. Instead, gently press the excess water out of the garment and lay it flat to dry.
Hang Dry Clothes Instead of Tumble Drying
Tumble drying clothes can cause them to shrink, so it’s best to hang them up to dry instead. This is especially important for delicate fabrics, such as silk and lace. If you do decide to tumble dry your clothes, use the lowest heat setting possible and remove the items from the dryer as soon as they are dry.
Check Clothing Labels for Recommended Washing Instructions
It’s always a good idea to check the clothing labels for washing instructions before washing a garment. Different fabrics require different washing techniques, so it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. Common washing instructions include “machine wash cold” and “hang dry”.
Use a Fabric Softener Designed to Help Keep Clothes from Shrinking
Fabric softeners can help to keep clothes from shrinking by making the fabric more pliable. Look for fabric softeners that are specifically designed to help keep clothes from shrinking. These products usually contain ingredients that will help to protect the fabric from damage caused by hot water and tumble drying.
Conclusion
Clothing shrinkage can be a real headache, but it doesn’t have to be. By following these 8 tips, you can keep your clothes from shrinking and preserve your favourite garments. All you need to do is avoid using hot water, use a gentle cycle, rinse with cold water, hang dry, check clothing labels, and use a fabric softener designed to help keep clothes from shrinking.
