Repeatedly drying clothes, especially on high heat settings, can potentially cause them to shrink or be subjected to additional wear and tear. However, if your clothes are not completely dry after the first cycle, you might not have many other options at your school's laundry facility. Here are some tips to minimize the risk of shrinkage and damage:
Lower heat setting: If possible, choose a lower heat setting for subsequent drying cycles. High heat is more likely to cause shrinkage, so opting for a gentler heat setting might help reduce the risk.
Monitor drying time: Keep an eye on the drying time during each cycle. If your clothes are almost dry after the first cycle, you can remove them early to minimize exposure to excessive heat.
Shake out clothes: Before starting a new drying cycle, shake out your clothes to redistribute the moisture and prevent them from getting tangled or clumped together.
Avoid overdrying: Overdrying clothes can also lead to shrinkage. If your clothes are mostly dry but slightly damp after the first cycle, take them out and air dry the rest of the way to avoid excessive heat exposure.
Check care labels: Some clothes are more prone to shrinkage than others. Check the care labels on your garments to see if there are any specific instructions to follow.
Use fabric softeners: Fabric softeners can help reduce static and prevent clothes from sticking together during the drying process.
Avoid frequent drying: If you have the option to air dry some of your clothes or use other drying facilities, it's a good idea to minimize frequent drying in the school's machines.
Keep in mind that while using the dryer multiple times might not be ideal, sometimes it's the only available option in certain situations. Taking extra care during the drying process and using lower heat settings can help mitigate some of the risks associated with using the school's less efficient dryers.