Can Dryers Shrink Clothes?
It’s a common fear to avoid putting your favorite items of clothing through the dryer, for fear of them shrinking. But just how much dryers can shrink clothes varies from fabric to fabric, so it’s important to understand the basics of drying before subjecting your closet faves to hot air.
Different Fabrics, Different Rules
When it comes to fabric, not all drying rules are the same. Generally speaking, natural fibres like cotton, wool and linen are more prone to shrinkage than synthetics.
Monitor Temperature and Time
To ensure your clothes don’t shrink, it’s important to keep an eye on the temperature and drying time. Running a drying cycle on a high heat for an extended period of time results in greater shrinkage.
Standard Maintenance Tips
In order to maintain the standard size of your clothes, here are some tips that may help:
- Read the Label: Always read the clothing label before you put it into the dryer. It will give you an indication of what temperature and drying cycle to use.
- Turn Clothes Inside Out: Turning your clothes inside out helps limit any visible damage to the outside of the garment.
- Remove Clothes Promptly: As soon as the cycle has finished it’s important to remove the clothes promptly to reduce the risk of any shrinking.
- Hang Dry: For extra precaution, it’s best to hang dry your delicate items as drying racks avoid any agitation that could lead to piles.
The Bottom Line
Clothes do not have to be ruined when it comes to drying, as long as you understand the guidelines for different fabric types and monitor the temperature of your dryer. Remaining vigilant and following the tips outlined above may just save your wardrobe from any unexpected shrinking!