It’s something most people experience at least once — you pull your favorite shirt out of the dryer, only to realize it has shrunk three sizes. Fortunately, this common mistake can be prevented if you know which fabrics are most likely to shrink, and practice a few simple tricks. Whether you’re doing laundry at home or at a laundromat, here are a few care tips to keep the most vulnerable fabrics safe. 

How to Wash Shrinkable Fabrics

1. Cotton

Cotton is a comfortable, breathable fabric made from natural materials, which explains why cotton garments are so highly prized by their owners. If you aren’t careful, however, that cotton shirt you love will shrink the first time you wash it. As it tumbles around in the dryer and moisture evaporates from the fibers, those fibers will contract, causing shrinkage. Fortunately, you can avoid this by either handwashing cotton garments or washing them on the cold setting, then letting them air dry indoors.

2. Hemp

Hemp is another popular material for garments thanks to its durability and ability to absorb colored dyes. As a crop, hemp is also easy on the environment; it requires little water and almost no pesticides, making it lucrative and eco-friendly. One of the big downsides, however, is its tendency to shrink in the washing machine. This can be avoided by using a gentle cycle with cool water and mild soap. Afterward, add vinegar to the machine to get out all traces of laundry detergent, which could cause discoloration if left in the fabric. This is also an important step if you’re washing a second load at the laundromat. 

3. Wool

Wool is another highly durable fabric that possesses the disadvantage of shrinking in warm water. This happens because wool, like all natural fibers from animals, has an outer layer of scales on each fiber. Heat, moisture, and the movement of the washing machine cause these scales to shrink and interlock, preventing the wool from expanding again as it dries. This can be avoided by dry-cleaning or handwashing wool garments, then laying them flat to dry. 

By following a few simple practices, you can maintain the shape and integrity of your most delicate fabrics. If you’re seeking a reliable laundromat to wash these items, head to Wash & Spin Coin Laundry in Atlanta, GA. They offer high-efficiency machines, free Wi-FI, a kids’ corner, and computer services, so you can stay entertained while you wait for your laundry to finish. Their professionals also offer wash-and-fold services, so you can save time and feel confident your clothing is in good hands. Learn more today by visiting the laundromat online or call (404) 756-1666 to speak to a member of the team.