How to Shrink Clothes
Shrinking clothes is a great way to get a better fit but can be a bit tricky. Knowing how to do it can save you from shrinking a garment beyond repair or not being able to shrink it enough. So, here’s how you shrink clothes without ruining them:
Pre-Treatments
- Read the label: Always check the care instructions on the label of your garments before attempting to shrink them. Some fabrics and materials may shrink, while others may not.
- Soak the fabric: Submerge the garment in lukewarm water with a mild detergent for up to 30 minutes to preshrink it. Alternatively, you can also hand wash the fabric.
Shrinking
- Set your washing machine: Select a cycle that uses warm water and a high spin speed.
- Drying: After washing, dry the garment using dryer set to a higher heat. Select the highest heat settings you can as this will help shrink the fabric.
Tips for Success
- Make sure to check the care instructions for your garment and take the necessary precautions.
- Be cautious when using warm water and dryers. Hotter settings might cause irreversible damage to your clothes.
- After drying, it might be necessary to iron your garment to get the desired look.
These steps should help you shrink your clothes safely and easily. However, if you’re still unsure, it’s best to take the garment to a laundry or dry-cleaning service to have it professionally done.