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Have you ever washed your favorite dress, only to find it 1-2 sizes smaller afterward? Many people assume that heat from the dryer is the primary culprit behind this shrinkage. While it’s true that heat can contribute to fabric shrinkage, it’s not the whole story. In fact, most fabrics don’t actually shrink—rather, they “relax” when washed, returning to their natural dimensions. Let’s explore why this happens.
Clothing fibers are bound together by hydrogen bonds. During manufacturing, these fibers are stretched, twisted, and pulled to form threads that are woven into fabric. The tension created in this process is held by the hydrogen bonds. When you wash, dry, or agitate the fabric, these bonds are relieved, causing the fibers to relax back to their original, pre-stressed state—this is when shrinkage occurs.
Synthetic fibers like polyester, nylon, and spandex, which are man-made from petrochemicals, tend to stay straight and do not experience the same relaxation process as natural fibers. These fibers typically don’t shrink unless subjected to very high heat. On the other hand, natural fibers like cotton, wool, and silk are not straight by nature. During manufacturing, these fibers are forced to straighten, stretch, and twist, which disturbs their natural structure. When exposed to water, heat, or agitation, these fibers can relax, leading to shrinkage.
To avoid purchasing clothes that will shrink, consider buying shrink-proof garments. Many brands now offer clothes that have undergone special treatments to prevent shrinkage. These garments may be pre-washed or pre-shrunk, ensuring that the fibers’ tension has been released before the item reaches the store. Check the care label to see if the garment has been pre-shrunk or pre-washed. If you’re unsure, ask the sales associate for information on whether the item is shrink-proof. Alternatively, opt for garments made from natural-synthetic blends (e.g., 50% cotton, 50% polyester) to reduce the risk of shrinkage.
To keep your clothes from shrinking, follow these washing tips:
- Always check the care labels: They provide the best instructions for washing and drying each item.
- Use cold water: Hot water can trigger shrinkage, so stick to cold water when washing your clothes.
- Avoid using a dryer: Air drying your clothes is the safest way to prevent shrinkage. If you do use a dryer, select the lowest heat setting.
- Don’t hang wet clothes: Hanging clothes to dry while wet can stretch them out, leading to distortion in their shape.
