Have you ever purchased a new item of clothing only to find that it has shrunk after its first wash? If so, you’re probably wondering if this happens every time you wash cotton.
Does Cotton Shrink Every Time You Wash It?
We are here to help answer this question and provide valuable tips on preventing shrinking when washing cotton fabrics.
The short answer to the original question is no—not all cotton clothing shrinks in the wash.
Some items shrink while others remain unaffected because of the cotton fabric used and the way it has been woven. For example, knitted cotton is more likely to shrink than woven cotton because they have been constructed so that it can be stretched out more quickly.
That said, even knitted cotton can be washed without fear of shrinkage as long as they are correctly cared for.
When washing cotton, it’s always best to use cool water and a gentle cycle setting on your washing machine or hand wash your items if possible (this will depend on the care label).
Hot water and harsh detergents can strip natural oils from fibers, which could cause them to become brittle and break down over time, leading to the shrinking and misshaping of fabrics.
You should also avoid putting your clothes in a dryer as this will undoubtedly cause them to shrink; instead, opt for air drying or hanging them up on a line outside.
If you want extra protection against shrinking or misshapen clothing, consider using a fabric softener or an anti-shrink spray like Resolve® Fabric Shrink Solution before laundering.
These products contain chemicals that coat fibers and help loosen any tension within fabrics, so they don’t become brittle when exposed to hot water and strong detergents during the washing process; plus, they soften fabrics!
Washing your cotton garments doesn’t have to mean sacrificing their shape or size every time – especially if you take extra steps like using cold water, gentle cycles, and fabric softeners/anti-shrink sprays before laundering.
So next time you’re worried about throwing your favorite t-shirt into the laundry basket, remember these tips – so you won’t have to worry about ending up with an overpriced crop top!
