To prevent your laundry from shrinking when put in the dryer, follow these tips:
Read the care labels: Check the care labels on your clothing to see if they have any specific instructions for drying. Some garments may be labeled as "tumble dry low" or "lay flat to dry," indicating they should not be subjected to high heat.
Sort by fabric type: Separate your laundry by fabric type before drying. Different fabrics have different shrinkage rates. For example, cotton and wool are more prone to shrinking than synthetic materials like polyester or nylon.
Use a gentle cycle: If your dryer has different heat settings or cycles, opt for a lower heat or a gentle cycle. High heat can cause fabrics to shrink more rapidly.
Remove items promptly: Avoid leaving your laundry sitting in the dryer after the cycle is complete. Promptly remove the items and smooth them out to minimize wrinkles and potential shrinkage from the residual heat.
Air-dry delicate items: For delicate fabrics or clothing prone to shrinking, consider air-drying them instead of using the dryer. Lay them flat on a drying rack or hang them on a clothesline.
Don't overload the dryer: Overloading the dryer can lead to uneven drying and increase the likelihood of shrinking. Leave enough room for the clothes to move and circulate inside the dryer.
Use dryer balls: Dryer balls can help reduce drying time and create more space between the clothes, allowing for better airflow and reducing the risk of shrinkage.
Avoid excessive drying time: Don't let your laundry tumble in the dryer longer than necessary. As soon as the clothes are dry, take them out to prevent overexposure to heat.
Test new items: If you have a new clothing item and you're unsure how it will react in the dryer, perform a test by washing and drying a small section first.
Pre-shrink if needed: For fabrics known to shrink significantly, consider pre-shrinking them before sewing or wearing. To pre-shrink, wash the fabric using the method you plan to use for laundering, then dry it using a low heat setting.
By following these tips, you can help minimize the risk of shrinkage and keep your clothes in good condition for a longer time.