How to Unshrink Clothes: Expert Tips and Products
If you've ever accidentally shrunk your favorite sweater or shirt, you know the frustration. But according to laundry experts, there are ways to restore shrunken garments to their original size. Stacee Parker, a laundry professional with Poplin, explains that natural fibers like wool, cotton, and linen have a "fiber memory" that can be coaxed back into shape. Poplin founder Mort Fertel adds that natural fibers are more prone to shrinking than synthetics like polyester and nylon.
Prevention is key: always follow care labels, wash in cold water, and air-dry. But if shrinkage has already occurred, try these products and methods recommended by Parker and Fertel.
1. Eucalan No-Rinse Fabric Conditioner
Eucalan is a no-rinse conditioner containing lanolin, which lubricates and relaxes wool and protein-based fibers. Fertel says soaking a shrunken sweater in Eucalan loosens fiber bonds, allowing you to stretch it back to shape. Parker recommends soaking for 30 minutes, then gently stretching the fabric while wet. $20 at Amazon.
2. Cashmere Comb
A cashmere comb helps loosen fibers that have locked together during shrinkage. Use it before soaking with Eucalan to prep the fabric. It also removes pills from wool and polyester. $10 at Amazon.
3. Intensive Hair Conditioner
Parker says hair conditioner works similarly to Eucalan by coating and relaxing fibers. Use a tablespoon in cool water, soak for 30 minutes, then stretch. Dove conditioner is affordable and highly rated. $7 at Amazon, $10 at Target.
4. Downy Wrinkle Releaser Spray
Fertel notes that fabric stretcher sprays like Downy Wrinkle Releaser can help without washing. One reviewer uses it to stretch shrunken t-shirts by spraying and shaking. It also reduces heat exposure to delicate fabrics. 3-pack: $19 at Amazon, $9 at Target.
5. Downy Liquid Fabric Softener
Downy Fabric Conditioner can loosen fibers when sprayed and stretched while damp. For cotton, the stretch-while-damp method works best without special products. $13 at Amazon, $14 at Target, $13 at Walmart.
6. Wool and Silk Wash
This elasticity-boosting detergent, made with natural wool wax and organic olive soap, helps restore shrunken items. Reviewers praise its ability to unshrink cashmere and wool sweaters. $18 at Amazon.
7. Fabric Stretching Tool
For those with limited dexterity, a sleeve stretching tool can help maintain or restore shape. Slide it into sleeves to gently expand the fabric. $27 at Amazon.
With patience and the right products, you can often reverse shrinkage and extend the life of your favorite clothes.
