How many times have you pulled freshly cleaned clothes from the washer and dryer only to find that they’ve changed shape? For many people, this means their favorite shirts, dresses, or pants are ruined. Often, it’s because they’re washing clothes improperly. The guide below discusses methods for preventing stretching and shrinking, so you can look and feel your best.

Ways to Prevent Clothes From Shrinking & Stretching

1. Air Dry

The heat of a dryer can cause clothing to shrink, which is why it’s best to air dry whenever possible. Find a wide, flat surface you can lay the clothes on. You can also hang lighter shirts on hangers. Just make sure they’re the right size, so they don’t stretch out the neck. Never wring wet clothing out, as it can strain the fabric.

2. Stick to the Instructions

Every piece of clothing you own should have a tag marked with different labels explaining how the article should be washed. Based on the fibers, color, and more, they detail the best way to treat them in the washer and dryer. Some clothes require cold water over warm; some need a permanent press; others may need to be dry cleaned or hand washed. Follow these instructions exactly to get the best results.

3. Go Cold & Gentle

As a rule of thumb, however, hot water leads to shrinking, so always wash clothing in cold water, or at the most, warm, as it won’t damage the fabric as much. You should also use gentle cycles, as they’ll remove water more slowly and won’t put undue stress on the fibers. Make sure to invest in a high-quality washer and dryer or visit a local laundromat that offers high-end appliances.

City Laundry is Lincoln, NE’s go-to laundromat and cleaning service. They have a number of self-service washer and dryer units to choose from, including commercial size, and their staff can also assist with all your cleaning needs. Visit them online to explore their services. Follow them on Facebook for news, updates, and cleaning tips. You can also call (402) 483-2113 to speak with their staff.