Clothes can shrink due to several factors, including:
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Fabric type: Fabrics made from natural plant or animal fibers, such as wool, mohair, cotton, linen, and silk, are more likely to shrink.
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Agitation: Agitation and high temperatures in the washing and drying cycles can distort fabric and cause clothes to shrink. Washing fabrics too vigorously can cause the fibers to tighten together and yield a shrunken garment.
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Heat: Washing clothes in hot water or drying them using hot air can shrink the fabric. Heat releases the tension in the fibers, making them return to their natural state and causing the clothes to shrink.
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Moisture: Washing polymer, wool, and cotton in hot water causes the fabric to swell because it soaks up the water in the washer. Then, the heat from the dryer will shrink the fibers back to their normal size.
To prevent clothes from shrinking, you can:
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Check fabric care labels: Follow the laundry instructions on your garment’s care tag. Check the care tag not only before laundering, but also before purchasing new clothing so you know what to expect.
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Wash in cold water: Washing clothes in cold water can help prevent shrinkage, especially for natural fibers like cotton and wool.
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Dry on low heat settings or air dry: Overdrying and exposing your clothes to long cycles of high heat can damage the fabric and cause clothes to shrink. Instead, opt for tumble or air dry settings in shorter intervals in order to preserve your clothing.
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Hand wash: To prevent shrinking, wash clothes by hand in cold water with a little laundry detergent.
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Dry clean: Dry cleaning is a good option for clothes that are prone to shrinking.
By following these tips, you can help prevent your clothes from shrinking and extend the life of your favorite garments.
