Reversing the Shrinkage of Clothes
Having your favourite shirt or a pair of jeans shrink in size is one of the most common laundry mishaps that can occur. It can be very frustrating when clothes shrink, but thankfully you can rest assured that there are steps you can take to restore them back to their original size.
How to Reverse Clothes Shrinkage
- Submerge in Hot Water
Place the shrinking clothes in a sink or bucket and cover them with hot water. Allow the item of clothing to soak for up to 20 minutes, stirring regularly, then follow with a cold cycle in the washing machine. This method works best for items made from cotton, linen or wool.
- Steam Treatment
Use a portable steamer machine to apply heat to the clothes in a circular motion and repeat until the fabric returns to its original size. This method works best for items that can’t be washed, like suits or nice dresses. Be sure to follow the steamer machine instructions carefully.
- Iron It Out
If the fabric is not too delicate, you can also try using an iron to get your clothes back to its original size. Place our item of clothing on an ironing board, dampen the fabric and press with the iron on a moderate heat setting. Again, be careful to not overdo it so that you don’t burn or damage the fabric.
Preventive Measures
It is always advisable to check the clothing tag carefully and follow the washing instructions closely before placing any item in the washing machine. While some fabrics will shrink more than others, you should always wash on a cool setting with a gentle cycle and avoid the tumble dryer. If washing a new item of clothing, the best way is to hand wash it and air-dry.
By taking these precautions, you can help to prevent shrinkage and enjoy your clothes for longer.