Does Polycotton Fabric Shrink? [FAQs]

Have you ever bought a piece of clothing made of polycotton fabric and wondered if it will shrink after washing? Well, you’re not alone!

People have different experiences with polycotton fabric, and some have complained about shrinking after washing.

Table of Contents

Short Answers

The amount of shrinkage depends on various factors, such as the quality of the fabric, washing temperature, and drying method.
Polycotton fabric is a blend of polyester and cotton, which means it has the properties of both fibers.

Polycotton fabric can shrink due to several reasons, including:

Heat: Polycotton fabric is sensitive to heat, and high washing temperatures can cause shrinkage. The synthetic fibers in the fabric can melt at high temperatures, causing the fabric to shrink.
Agitation: The movement of the fabric during washing can also cause it to shrink. The more the fabric is agitated, the more it shrinks.
Drying Method: The drying method can also affect the shrinkage of polycotton fabric. Tumble drying at high temperatures can cause the fabric to shrink.

Here are some tips on how to prevent polycotton fabric from shrinking:

Wash in Cold Water: Washing polycotton fabric in cold water can prevent it from shrinking. Cold water does not cause the synthetic fibers to melt, which reduces the chances of shrinking.
Hand Wash: Hand washing polycotton fabric is a safer option. It reduces agitation and prevents the fabric from shrinking.

Air Dry: Air drying polycotton fabric is the best way to prevent it from shrinking. Avoid tumble drying at high temperatures as it can cause shrinkage.

Here’s how to care for and prevent polycotton fabric from shrinking:

Read the Care Label: Always read the care label on the fabric before washing. Follow the instructions on the label to avoid shrinking.

Separate Colors: Separate dark and light colors when washing polycotton fabric. This prevents color bleeding and maintains the fabric’s quality.
Avoid Ironing: Avoid ironing polycotton fabric at high temperatures. Use a cool iron to avoid melting the synthetic fibers in the fabric.

Can I prevent polycotton fabric from shrinking? Yes, you can prevent polycotton fabric from shrinking by washing it in cold water, hand washing, and air drying.

Is polycotton fabric durable? Yes, polycotton fabric is durable and easy to care for. It is a blend of polyester and cotton, which makes it strong, lightweight, and resistant to wrinkles and shrinkage.
Can I bleach polycotton fabric? Yes, you can bleach polycotton fabric. However, follow the care label instructions to avoid damaging the fabric.