How To Prevent Your Clothes From Shrinking: A Friendly Advice
At some point in our lives, we have all experienced the frustration of putting on a favorite shirt, only to find that it has shrunk in the wash. Not only does this mean that we can no longer wear the item comfortably, but it also means that we have to go out and buy a replacement, which can be both costly and time-consuming.
Fortunately, there are steps that we can take to prevent our clothes from shrinking in the wash. In this article, we provide you with some friendly advice on how to keep your clothes looking and feeling their best for longer.
1. Check the Label
Before washing any item of clothing, it is important to check the label to see what the care instructions are. This will tell you what temperature the garment can be washed at, whether it can be tumble-dried or not, and whether it can be ironed.
If the label says that the item should be washed in cold water, then it is important to follow this advice. Washing clothes in hot water can cause them to shrink, especially if they are made from natural fibers such as wool or cotton.
2. Wash Clothes in Cold Water
As mentioned above, washing clothes in cold water can help to prevent them from shrinking. This is because hot water can cause the fibers in the fabric to contract, leading to shrinkage.
In addition to preventing shrinkage, washing clothes in cold water also has other benefits. It can help to save energy, as it requires less electricity to heat the water, and it can help to preserve the color of the fabric, as hot water can cause dyes to fade.
3. Use a Gentle Detergent
When washing your clothes, it is important to use a gentle detergent that is designed for use on delicate fabrics. Harsh detergents can cause damage to the fibers in the fabric, which can lead to shrinkage and other problems.
There are many detergents available that are designed specifically for use on delicate fabrics, so it is important to choose one that is appropriate for the items that you are washing.
4. Avoid the Dryer
Tumble drying can be a convenient way to dry your clothes quickly, but it can also cause them to shrink. This is because the high heat of the dryer can cause the fibers in the fabric to contract, leading to shrinkage.
If you want to avoid shrinkage, then it is best to air-dry your clothes instead. This can be done by hanging them on a clothesline or drying rack, or by laying them flat on a towel to dry.
5. Be Careful When Ironing
Ironing can also cause shrinkage if it is not done properly. To avoid this, it is important to follow the instructions on the care label and to use a low heat setting on your iron.
If you are unsure about how to iron a particular item of clothing, then it is best to take it to a professional dry cleaner, who will be able to iron it for you without causing any damage.
