Have you ever worn a jean after a wash and noticed it fits you tight? Perhaps, you must be wondering how did you get stout within a day! Well, it’s not you, but it’s a laundry mistake you have made.
It is because there is too much heat-processed during your wash. Fibers of polymers that make up your clothing are naturally short, stretched to make clothes. So, while you wash them using hot water or air dry them using hot air, you apply heat that releases this stretch. It is why fiber of polymers return to their original shorter states, and hence you get mini versions of your clothes.
Not all fabrics shrink, and therefore, identifying a suitable material will help you better care for your clothing!
Cotton
Cotton is a natural fiber that is popular for its versatility. If the fabric has not gone through pre-processing, then there are high chances of shrinking after a few washing.
Look at the label for laundry instructions. Some brands do include ‘wash using cold water,’ and if you do not follow it, your trousers will not fit you as well!
Tips:
- To prevent cotton from shrinking, wash it in cold water and air dry without a machine.
- To avoid unnecessary mistakes, hand wash cotton fabrics. Use a subtle detergent, and do not scrub over the material roughly.
You need to follow the tips if your clothing is 100% cotton. A few synthetics mixed, such as polyester, will not do any harm to your trousers, and therefore, you do not need to be cautious about the temperature.
Wool
Wool is the comfiest fabric that keeps you warm during the cold breezy winters, and therefore, you cannot afford to lose it for a laundry flaw.
It is naturally obtained from sheep, goats, and other cold mammals and is very long-lasting. But, it is highly liable to shrink when washed with hot water.
Tips:
- Wool fabric does not need to be washed frequently, and therefore, avoid spinning it in the machine and give it a hand wash.
- Soak the wool in cold water for about 10 minutes with mild detergent before giving it a hand wash.
- Do not squeeze the cloth to drain out excess water. You will end up stretching the fabric and use a towel to absorb the excess water before you dry it.