If you’ve ever pulled your favourite shirt out of the dryer only to find it’s two sizes smaller, you’re not alone. So, do dryers shrink clothes? Yes, dryers can shrink clothes, but understanding why this happens can help you prevent it in the future.
Why Do Clothes Shrink in the Dryer?
Clothes shrink due to a combination of heat and moisture. When fabrics are exposed to high heat in a dryer, the fibres can contract. This reaction varies by fabric type:
- Natural fibres like cotton and wool are more prone to shrinkage because the heat causes the fibres to tighten.
- Synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon are less likely to shrink, though they can still lose shape at high temperatures.
Moisture also plays a role. Wet clothes entering a hot dryer can undergo a physical reaction called “felting,” where fibres lock together more tightly.
What Fabrics Shrink the Most?
Not all fabrics behave the same. Some are more likely to shrink than others:
- Cotton: Very likely to shrink, especially if exposed to high heat.
- Wool: Known for felting and shrinking significantly in the dryer.
- Rayon: Can shrink and lose shape if not dried properly.
- Linen: Prone to shrinking if dried on high heat.
- Polyester: Less likely to shrink but can still deform under extreme heat.
To keep these fabrics in good shape, careful handling is essential.
How to Prevent Clothes from Shrinking in the Dryer
There are several steps you can take to prevent your clothes from shrinking:
- Check the fabric label: Always follow the care instructions on your clothes. If it says “air dry,” avoid the dryer.
- Use low heat settings: Dry clothes on a low or no-heat setting whenever possible.
- Air dry delicate items: Some fabrics like wool or silk are better off drying naturally.
- Don’t overload your dryer: Overloading can prevent clothes from drying evenly, leading to inconsistent shrinkage.
Dryer Settings to Avoid Shrinking Clothes
Most modern dryers offer settings designed to prevent shrinkage. These are the key ones to use:
- Delicate: Ideal for fragile fabrics like silk or lace.
- Low heat: Best for clothes that can handle a little heat but are still at risk of shrinking.
- Air dry: No heat is used, allowing you to safely dry items like wool or cashmere.
If you’re drying cotton, opt for a low heat setting, and for wool or linen, air drying is the safest bet.
Can You Reverse Clothes Shrinkage?
In some cases, yes. Here’s how to try and unshrink clothes:
- Soak in lukewarm water with conditioner: Let the garment soak for 15-20 minutes.
- Stretch the fabric gently: After soaking, gently stretch the fabric back into shape.
- Air dry flat: Lay the item on a flat surface to dry and avoid further shrinkage.
Results vary depending on the fabric and the extent of the shrinkage, but it’s worth a try.
By understanding why clothes shrink and how to prevent it, you can keep your wardrobe intact and save yourself from future laundry mishaps. If you’re looking for hassle-free laundry care, visit Nina’s Laundrette. Not sure how long you should be drying your laundry for? Why not try out our laundry drying calculator?