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What to do if an item has shrunk after washing: methods of restoration and prevention
18.07.2024 03:10
Every person has at least once encountered an unpleasant situation when a favorite item has decreased in size after washing.
This is frustrating and can feel like a hopeless situation.
However, there is no need to despair, because there are effective methods to return clothes to their original appearance.
Reasons for clothing shrinkage
Understanding the causes of shrinkage can help prevent the problem from recurring.
The main cause of shrinkage is the effect of hot water and high drying temperatures on the fabric fibers.
Natural materials such as cotton and wool are particularly susceptible to shrinkage because their fibers shrink when exposed to heat and moisture.
Methods of restoring clothes
There are several methods you can use to restore the shape of a shrunken item. One of the most popular methods is to use hair conditioner.
To do this, the item is soaked in a solution of conditioner and water for 15-30 minutes, after which it is carefully stretched to the desired size. This method is especially effective for natural fabrics such as wool and cotton.
Another way is to stretch the clothes using towels. The item should be soaked in cold water, squeezed out slightly and laid out on a dry towel. Then, cover with another towel and roll it up to remove excess moisture.
After this, you need to carefully stretch the item to the desired size and leave it to dry in a horizontal position.
Preventing shrinkage
To prevent clothes from shrinking, it is important to follow a few simple rules.
First, you should pay attention to the labels with recommendations for fabric care.
Using the correct washing and drying temperatures helps keep your clothes looking their best.
Secondly, you should avoid too hot water and high temperatures when drying. It is best to wash clothes in cool water and use the delicate drying mode or air dry.
Also, remember to sort your clothes before washing. Mixing different fabrics and colors can lead to unpredictable results, including shrinkage and color shifting.
Use of professional services
If home methods do not help, you should consider turning to professional dry cleaners.
Professionals have the knowledge and equipment to help restore the shape and size of an item. In addition, dry cleaning is a safe option for expensive and delicate fabrics.
