When a wool garment shrinks in the wash, it can be disheartening, but there are a few methods you can try to potentially salvage the item. Keep in mind that the success of these methods may vary depending on the extent of shrinkage and the specific wool fabric. Here are some steps you can take to try and restore the garment:
Soak in lukewarm water: Fill a basin or sink with lukewarm water (not hot) and add a few tablespoons of hair conditioner or baby shampoo. Submerge the shrunken wool garment in the water and gently agitate it to ensure the water penetrates the fibers. Let it soak for about 30 minutes to relax the fibers.
Gently stretch the fabric: After soaking, carefully stretch the wool garment back to its original size and shape. Be gentle to avoid damaging the fibers. You can do this by laying the garment flat on a towel and gently pulling it into shape.
Press with a towel: Roll the wool garment in a clean, dry towel to remove excess water and reshape it further. Avoid wringing or twisting the fabric, as this can lead to more damage.
Block the garment: Lay the garment on a flat, clean surface, like a towel on a table or bed. Reshape it to the desired size and dimensions, carefully pulling it to stretch if needed. Use rustproof pins or sewing needles to hold the garment in place on the towel.
Allow it to air dry: Leave the garment to air dry in its stretched state. Avoid hanging it, as the weight of the wet fabric can cause further stretching or distortion. Keep it away from direct heat or sunlight.
Steam or steam iron (optional): If the garment is still slightly shrunken after air-drying, you can try using a steamer or a steam iron on the wool setting to help relax the fibers further. Make sure the iron doesn't touch the fabric directly and use a pressing cloth or ironing cloth if necessary.
Remember that the success of this process depends on the extent of the shrinkage and the type of wool fabric. It's essential to handle the garment with care and be patient during the restoration process. While it may not always be possible to fully restore the original size, these steps can often help recover some of the lost dimensions and make the garment wearable again.