How to prevent clothes from shrinking in the dryer
Everyone has their favorite clothes and wouldn’t want them damaged during washing or drying. The high temperatures at which we treat the fabrics in the appliances can cause them to shrink. Admittedly, this is more common in older dryer models.
Modern appliances come with new technology that protects laundry from shrinking or deformation. Water and heat are the two main reasons fabrics shrink in the washer and dryer. We know very well that clothes made from all-natural fibers like silk, cotton, and linen are more prone to shrinkage.
Their materials easily absorb water after washing. When these fabrics are placed in the dryer, too hot air causes the fibers to shrink. Not only that, but the machine’s longer duty cycles gradually shrink the clothes.
The easiest way to avoid this trouble is to use gentler drying programs. So, if you are in a hurry, you can use the lowest level of air heating in the unit. The main factor that can cause fabric shrinkage when drying is its settings.
Many experts advise customers to read the labels before putting the clothes in the appliance. However, you should not delve too much into familiarizing yourself with the instructions for washing and drying the laundry. Many people find this a tedious activity.
Even if you do not know the recommended degrees for washing and drying, you can always put the clothes on a shorter program. That applies especially to delicate fabrics such as wool, cotton, or bed linen.
Modern dryers have special work programs designed for fabrics that may shrink or deform the fibers. If the laundry has already shrunk, it’s not irreversible. Soak your clothes in cool water for 30 minutes. Then add 1/3 cup of hair conditioner or shampoo.
The mix will loosen the fibers of the clothes. Take a clean towel, put your laundry, and wring it out to remove excess moisture. When it gets wet, get another one. Place the clothes on it and stretch it to its original size. Finally, let the laundry air dry. How to prevent fabrics from shrinking in the dryer:
Read clothing labels |
Use shorter programs |
Call Sos-assistance if you have inquiries for dryer maintenance |
