Clothes shrinking in the laundry is a common and frustrating issue, but with the right knowledge, you can keep your garments looking their best. Shrinkage can turn your favorite sweater into an unwearable size or make perfectly fitting jeans too tight, which can be really disappointing. Understanding why clothes shrink and how to prevent it can save you from these frustrations and help your clothes last longer.
In this blog post, we’ll explore what causes clothes to shrink, the different types of shrinkage, and effective strategies to prevent it. Plus, we’ll discuss whether dry cleaning can help prevent clothes from shrinking and provide tips for properly drying and storing your clothing.
What Causes Clothes to Shrink in the Laundry?
Several factors can cause clothes to shrink:
- Heat: High temperatures, whether during washing or drying, can cause the fibers in your clothes to contract. This is especially true for natural fibers like cotton, wool, and linen.
- Agitation: Excessive movement in the washing machine can put stress on the fabric fibers, leading them to shorten and causing shrinkage.
- Moisture: Water can cause certain fibers to swell. When these fibers dry, they may contract, resulting in shrinkage.
- Fiber Type: Natural fibers are generally more susceptible to shrinking than synthetic ones. Cotton, wool, and linen are prime examples of fabrics that can shrink if not cared for properly.
Types of Shrinkage in Clothes
Not all shrinkage is created equal. Understanding the different types can help you take appropriate preventive measures.
Relaxation Shrinkage:
This is the most common type of shrinkage and usually involves a minor reduction in size. It occurs when wet fibers return to their natural state as they dry.
Felting Shrinkage
Typically seen in wool garments, felting shrinkage happens when fibers become tangled and matted together, often due to heat and agitation. This type of shrinkage can be irreversible.
Progressive Shrinkage
This gradual shrinkage occurs over several washes, especially in fabrics like cotton and wool. It’s caused by a combination of factors, including heat, agitation, and moisture.
How to Keep Clothes From Shrinking
To prevent your clothes from shrinking, it’s important to take some preventive steps before washing and follow specific guidelines for washing and drying. Here’s a list of helpful tips and tricks to avoid shrinking your clothes:
- Read the Care Labels: Whether you’re trying to avoid shrinkage or just taking care of your clothes, always read the care labels. These labels provide instructions on how to properly care for your garments and include directions to prevent damage like shrinkage. At Columbus Cleaners, we meticulously follow care labels. If you’d rather not deal with deciphering them, leave the clothing care to us!
- Use Cold Water: Whenever possible, wash your clothes in cold water. Cold water is much gentler on fabrics compared to warm or hot water, reducing the risk of shrinkage. It not only helps prevent shrinkage but also preserves the color and integrity of the fabric, making your clothes last longer.
- Air Dry: The safest drying method is to hang your clothes to air dry, which eliminates the risk of heat damage from the dryer. This is particularly important for delicate and synthetic fabrics like yoga pants and dry-fit shirts. Investing in a drying rack for home use can be helpful.
- Tumble Dry on Low Heat: If air drying isn’t an option, use the tumble dry low heat setting on your dryer. This dries your clothes with minimal heat exposure, reducing the risk of shrinkage. The low heat setting is gentler on fabrics and helps maintain their original size and shape. For even better results, remove clothes from the dryer while they are still slightly damp and let them finish drying on a rack or hanger. This method further reduces the risk of shrinkage and helps prevent wrinkles.
- Hand Wash: If your washer and dryer don’t have precise temperature settings, consider hand washing certain items. Hand washing allows you to control the amount of pressure and friction, helping garments maintain their shape and preventing shrinkage. This method is especially beneficial for delicate fabrics like silk, wool, and lace. It not only helps prevent shrinkage but also preserves the quality and longevity of your clothes. It’s a bit more time-consuming, but it’s worth the effort for your most cherished items.
Can Dry Cleaning Save Your Clothes from Shrinkage?
Dry cleaning is often an excellent choice for preventing shrinkage, especially for delicate and natural fibers. Because dry cleaning uses solvents instead of water, it significantly reduces the risk of fibers swelling and contracting. This gentle cleaning method helps maintain the original shape and size of your garments.
Additionally, professional dry cleaners have expertise in handling various fabrics and employ specialized techniques to preserve their integrity. While dry cleaning is generally effective, it’s essential to check the care label for specific instructions, as some fabrics may have unique care requirements.
Trust Columbus Cleaners for All Your Laundry Needs
At Columbus Cleaners, we understand the frustration of dealing with shrunken clothes. As Boston’s favorite green and eco-friendly dry cleaning and laundry service, we are committed to keeping your garments in pristine condition. Our expert team uses the latest techniques and eco-friendly cleaning procedure to ensure your clothes look their best without harmful chemicals.
Preventing shrinkage is just one of the many ways we take care of your wardrobe. Plus, we offer convenient pickup services to make caring for your clothes even easier. Visit Columbus Cleaners today and experience the difference with our professional, eco-friendly laundry services. Ready to keep your clothes in top shape? Contact Columbus Cleaners now and say goodbye to laundry woes!