How to prevent shrinkage of clothes after washing
Sep 16, 2025
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After turning your favorite clothes into a washing machine, you may have experienced once or twice that they became small and were unable to wear them. In particular, natural fibers such as cotton, wool, and knitwear easily shrink or deform during the washing process. However, this problem can be prevented sufficiently by following basic management habits. In this article, we introduce specific ways to prevent shrinking of clothes after washing.
1. Check labels before washing
The first step in keeping clothes alive is to check the label. Ignoring indications such as 'Dry Cleaning Only', 'Handwashing Recommended', the washing machine easily causes shrinkage and damage. Make sure to check the washing method and recommended temperature before washing. It's a small habit, but it's key to keeping the shape and color of your clothes long.
2. Cold water washing is basic
Hot water contracts fiber tissue quickly. In particular, materials such as cotton and wool must be washed in lukewarm water or cold water below 30°C to maintain their original shape. Even if you are worried about doing the laundry well, if you use detergent properly, it will be clean enough even with cold water washing.
3. Active use of laundry network
The laundry net reduces deformation and lint caused by friction between clothes. Delicate clothes such as T-shirts, knitwear, and shirts must be washed in a laundry net. Locking and turning the zipper and button upside down can lower the risk of damage.
4. Choose a laundry course
The regular course of the washing machine has strong rotational power, which can damage clothes. Choosing a weak rotation mode, such as a wool course and a delicate course, can reduce the risk of contraction. It is much safer to hand wash high-quality materials or sensitive fabrics.
5. Minimize dryer use
Hot air drying is one of the biggest causes of clothing shrinkage. If you use a dryer frequently for convenience, the life of your clothes will be shortened. If you must use a dryer, it is best to use low temperature mode or 'Air Dry' function and choose natural drying if possible.
6. lying flat and drying
Knit or wool materials are likely to increase or decrease in shape when hung on a hanger. In this case, it is safe to lay it flat on a dry towel and dry it. If you dry naturally in a well-ventilated place, you can keep your clothes circular for the longest time.
7. Utilization of textile softeners and management agents
If fiber softener is used together when washing, the fiber softens, reducing contraction and deformation. Knit-only care agents prevent the fabric from becoming stiff after washing and keep it soft and flexible. It is a way to greatly increase the lifespan of clothes with a small investment.
8. Storage habits are important, too
The method of storage after washing also affects the prevention of shrinkage. Out-of-season clothes must be stored after washing, and it is recommended to avoid moisture and direct sunlight. The secret to protecting the fabric is to use a well-ventilated nonwoven cover instead of a plastic cover.
The decrease in clothes after washing is not just a coincidence, but a difference in management habits. Even if you keep the basics of checking labels before washing, washing cold water, refraining from using dryers, and drying flat, your clothes will remain like new clothes for much longer. Small habits can double the value of a wardrobe and reduce unnecessary spending. From today, let's check our washing habits and watch our clothes for a long time.
This article was translated by Naver AI translator.
