Silk
Silk needs utmost care. It is prone to get damaged during a rough wash. Silk is a natural fiber obtained from silkworms that produce protein threads, and if subjected to heat stress, they’re susceptible to shrink. It is duly because silk fibers get tightened. Many also say that the natural glue present in the fabric gets activated, adding to the shrink.
Tips:
- Look for the label information on how to wash correctly. Some urge you only to dry clean.
- Hand wash is advisable for any quality of silk.
- A mild, alkaline detergent is perfect for cleaning.
Linen
Linen is from a natural source, that is, stems of flax plants, and therefore, it is prone to shrink. It is a natural fiber that experiences contraction and relaxation. When you wet the cloth, the fibers relax, and hence, while washing, they return to their naturally shortened size.
Heat is also known to cause shrinkage, and washing in hot water adds to it.
Tips:
- Linen fabric can be soaked in cold water for approx 10 minutes before washing.
- You can use the washing machine but make sure not to mix light colors with dark colors.
- Use subtle detergents and avoid using bleach.
- Blow-dry in warm or cold air.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have a list of cloth fabrics that are susceptible to shrinkage after a wash, on your next laundry, make sure to be well aware of what you are washing and how you are washing. We are often too busy to follow this restriction, but we do not want to buy new fabrics simply because of a wash flaw.
Most of the fabrics need a cold water wash, including the use of mild detergents. So, for your next purchase, make sure you go for a quality-based alkaline detergent because the quality of the detergent will speak through the quality of your fabrics.