How to unshrink clothes

Your clothes are starting to feel snugger and tighter all the time. Is this due to water retention or is your diet not giving you enough fiber? Read on to find out how you can help loosen those clothes for good!

Clothes are one of the most visible ways we communicate our personality and sense of style. They are our first impression, which is why it’s important that they fit well. However, as we age, our bodies tend to hold onto water (among other things). This can lead to clothes feeling tight and uncomfortable.

In order to unshrink your clothes and eliminate water retention, you need to eat a high-fiber diet. Fiber helps stimulate bowel movements, which helps dissolve excess water and eliminates trapped pockets of moisture. Additionally, adding more moisture-wicking fabric linings (like Dri-Weave) can also help.

Shrinking clothes is a common issue that can occur due to various reasons, such as washing clothes in hot water or drying them on high heat. Fortunately, you can reverse the shrinking process by following a few simple methods. The key is to use lukewarm water, which helps relax the fibers of the fabric, allowing you to stretch the garment back to its original size.

Method 1: Using Lukewarm Water and Shampoo or Soap

If you’ve accidentally shrunk your clothes, this method can help you restore them to their former glory.

1. Fill a sink or tub with lukewarm water.
2. Add a capful of gentle shampoo or soap to the water.
3. Soak the shrunken clothes in the water for up to 30 minutes.
4. Gently remove water from the clothing.
5. Lay the clothing on a flat towel. Roll the towel, with the clothing inside, squeezing gently to release more water until the clothing is damp rather than wet.
6. Lay the clothing on another dry flat towel. As you position it on the towel, stretch it gently back to its preshrunk size.
7. Let the clothing air dry.

Method 2: Using Lukewarm Water and Hair Conditioner

Hair conditioner can also be used to unshrink clothes effectively. Follow these steps:

1. Fill a small bucket or container with warm water.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of hair conditioner to the water and mix it in.
3. Soak the shrunken clothes in the water for 10-15 minutes.
4. Gently remove water from the clothing.
5. Lay the clothing on a flat towel. Roll the towel, with the clothing inside, squeezing gently to release more water until the clothing is damp rather than wet.
6. Lay the clothing on another dry flat towel. As you position it on the towel, stretch it gently back to its preshrunk size.
7. Let the clothing air dry.

Method 3: Using Lukewarm Water and Detergent

This method involves using liquid laundry detergent to unshrink your clothes. Follow these steps:

1. Fill a container with warm water.
2. Add a capful of liquid laundry detergent to the water and mix it in.
3. Soak the shrunken clothes in the water for 30 minutes.
4. Gently remove water from the clothing.
5. Lay the clothing on a flat towel. Roll the towel, with the clothing inside, squeezing gently to release more water until the clothing is damp rather than wet.
6. Lay the clothing on another dry flat towel. As you position it on the towel, stretch it gently back to its preshrunk size.
7. Let the clothing air dry.

Note: It’s important to avoid using hot water or a dryer to unshrink clothes, as this can cause further shrinkage and damage to the fabric.

Conclusion

Accidentally shrinking clothes doesn’t have to be a permanent problem. With the right methods and a little patience, you can unshrink your favorite garments and restore them to their original size. Remember to use lukewarm water and follow the instructions carefully to avoid causing any damage. By using methods such as lukewarm water and shampoo or soap, lukewarm water and hair conditioner, or lukewarm water and detergent, you can successfully unshrink your clothes and enjoy wearing them again.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use hot water instead of lukewarm water to unshrink clothes? A1: It’s best to avoid hot water as it can lead to further shrinkage and damage the fabric. Lukewarm water is more effective in relaxing the fibers.

Q2: How long should I soak the shrunken clothes in the water? A2: The soaking time can vary depending on the method you choose. It’s generally recommended to soak the clothes for 10-30 minutes to allow the fibers to relax.

Q3: Can I use a dryer to speed up the drying process? A3: It’s advisable to air dry the clothes instead of using a dryer. Heat from a dryer can cause shrinkage and damage to the fabric.

Q4: Will these methods work for all types of fabrics? A4: These methods are generally safe for most fabrics. However, it’s always a good idea to check the care label of the garment or test the method on a small, inconspicuous area first.

Q5: What should I do if the garment doesn’t return to its original size after attempting these methods? A5: If the garment doesn’t fully regain its original size, you can try repeating the process or consider seeking professional help from a tailor or dry cleaner.