How to Stop Clothes From Shrinking After Washing
You buy a new suit. You wash it once. Now it is too small. This happens when cloth shrinks. The good news is that you can stop most of it.
Why Does Cloth Shrink?
Threads get stretched when cloth is made. Water and heat let the threads go back to their normal size. Then the cloth becomes smaller.
Which Fabrics Shrink the Most?
- Cotton and lawn: They can shrink 3 to 5 percent.
- Linen: It can shrink a lot at first.
- Rayon and viscose: They shrink and lose shape easily.
- Polyester: It shrinks very little.
Pre-Wash Before You Stitch
This is the best trick. Wash the cloth before it goes to the tailor. Let it dry fully. Then iron it. The cloth shrinks first, and the finished dress will fit for a long time.
Washing Tips
- Wash in cold or cool water.
- Use a gentle cycle or wash by hand.
- Turn the dress inside out.
- Use a mild soap.
- Do not twist or wring the cloth hard.
Drying Tips
- Dry in the shade or on a flat surface.
- Avoid a hot dryer.
- Pull the cloth gently into shape while it is damp.
Test a Small Piece
Cut a 10 cm square from the cloth. Draw its outline on paper. Wash and dry it. Place it on the outline. If it is smaller, the cloth will shrink.
Buy a Little Extra
If you cannot pre-wash, buy a bit more cloth. About 5 percent extra is a good idea. Our fabric calculator can add this for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fix a shrunk dress?
Sometimes. Soak it in cool water with a little hair conditioner. Gently stretch it and dry it flat. This works best for cotton.
Should I pre-wash all cloth?
Wash cotton, lawn, and linen. For silk and heavy embroidery, ask the seller first.