Can I Unshrink Clothes?
Have you ever accidentally shrunk a favorite pair of jeans or shirt in the wash? It can be surprisingly easy to do, and the results are often upsetting. But don’t give up hope just yet — there is a way to unshrink most fabrics!
Understanding the Shrinking Process
When a fabric shrinks, it is usually because of something known as agitation shrinkage. This type of shrinkage most commonly occurs when clothes are washed in a machine. Agitation shrinkage can cause problems with fabrics that contain wool, cotton, linen, and certain synthetic fibers. When the fabric comes into contact with hot water, friction causes the fibers to twist or tangle and therefore shrink.
Tips and Tricks to Unshrink Clothes
The good news is that there is a way to undo the shrinking process in most cases. Here are some steps to help you unshrink clothes and bring them back to their former glory!
- Fill a basin or sink with lukewarm water and add a capful of baby shampoo.
- Soak the item of clothing in the solution for 10-15 minutes.
- Gently stretch and reshape the garment as it soaks, taking care not to pull too hard.
- Once finished, rinse the clothing off and lay it flat on a towel to dry.
Conclusion
Accidentally shrinking clothes in the wash is an all-too-common experience. But with some patience and a bit of know-how, it is possible to unshrink most fabrics. If you’re in a pinch and need to unshrink a piece of clothing quickly, the steps outlined in this article can help!