How to Prevent Clothes from Shrinking

Why Do Clothes Shrink?

Clothes shrink primarily because of heat and agitation, especially in the dryer. High temperatures cause the fibers in fabric to contract, and the tumbling motion can tighten them further, making garments smaller.

This effect is most noticeable in natural fibers, such as cotton and wool. Washing clothes in hot water or overdrying them can speed up this process. Overdrying (leaving clothes in the dryer too long) can also damage fabrics, contributing to even more shrinkage over time.

Does Cotton Shrink in the Dryer?

Cotton can shrink in the dryer, especially when exposed to heat. High temperatures and agitation loosen cotton fibers, which then tighten and shrink as they dry. The degree of shrinkage depends on the fabric’s weave, whether the cotton was preshrunk during manufacturing, and how you care for it. Preshrunk cotton typically shrinks about 2% to 5%, while untreated cotton can shrink up to 20%. Cotton blends with polyester, rayon, or spandex are less likely to shrink.

Does Polyester Shrink?

Pure (100%) polyester rarely shrinks in the washer or dryer. However, under certain conditions, like washing in hot water or drying on high heat, you may notice a small amount of shrinkage. Polyester blends, on the other hand, can shrink more easily depending on the other fibers they’re combined with.

First Things First: How to Not Shrink Clothes

Here’s how to prevent clothes from shrinking. First, check the care label on the clothing tags. Following these directions is the best way to keep your clothing from shrinking.

How to Dry Clothes Without Shrinking Them

Next, to dry your clothing fully without unintentionally shrinking it, use a low heat tumble cycle in the dryer. Avoid cycles with high temperature settings. Alternatively, you can hang or line dry.

How to Prevent Cotton from Shrinking

Washing cotton in hot water can cause shrinkage. Cotton fabrics tend to have a maximum shrinkage capacity, meaning the highest percentage by which the fabric is likely to reduce in size (length and/or width) when laundered under typical conditions. High heat can also cause your cotton items to permanently shrink. You can avoid this by opting for a gentler cold-water wash, switching between warm and cold temperature washes, and using low drying heat or air drying instead.

Does Fabric Softener Prevent Shrinking?

No, fabric softener does not prevent clothes from shrinking. While products like Arm & Hammer™ Odor Blasters™ Fabric Softener Dryer Sheets can soften fabrics, add a fresh scent, and reduce static cling, they don’t affect whether fabric will shrink. The reality is that proper washing and drying techniques are more effective in preventing shrinkage.

Are Shrunken Clothes Permanent?

Yes, clothes can shrink permanently. It often happens during washing and drying, especially with natural fibers like cotton and wool. This occurs because these fibers, when stretched during the manufacturing process, can contract back to their original, relaxed state when exposed to heat and moisture. Synthetic fabrics like polyester are less prone to shrinkage because their fibers don't relax in the same way when exposed to these elements.

Can You “Unshrink” Clothing?

Although some articles of clothing can permanently shrink, it is also sometimes possible to reverse the shrinking process with others. And while some shrinkage can be reversed, particularly relaxation shrinkage in certain fabrics like wool, it's not always possible to fully restore a garment to its original size. This is especially true if it has undergone felting or excessive heat exposure. ‘Felting’ is the process where wool fibers interlock and shrink, creating a denser fabric that feels like felt material. Professional dry-cleaning services may also be able to reverse some shrinkage that has occurred, depending on the garment.

How to unshrink clothes:

1. Soak them in lukewarm water with a gentle cleanser like baby shampoo or hair conditioner for about 30 minutes to loosen the fibers.
2. Gently (emphasis on “gently”) stretch the garment back to its original shape while it's still damp.
3. Air dry the garment.

Shrinking Clothes on Purpose

And lastly, what about the opposite issue? Instead of how to stop clothes from shrinking, what if you want to shrink your items - say, your favorite jeans - for a better, more customized fit? Simply use the reverse approach. Throw your denim or other clothing in the wash using a hot cycle and then into the dryer until all hint of wetness is gone. Voila! Now you have perfectly fitting jeans and you didn’t have to purchase another pair.