Once clothes have been shrunk due to improper washing or drying, it is challenging to fully restore them to their original size and shape. Fabrics can shrink when subjected to high temperatures, agitation, or a combination of factors. However, there are some methods you can try to potentially stretch the fabric and mitigate the damage, but success is not guaranteed, and the effectiveness may vary depending on the fabric type and the extent of the shrinkage.
Here are some steps you can take to attempt to unshrink clothes:
Soak in lukewarm water: Fill a basin with lukewarm water and add a few tablespoons of hair conditioner or baby shampoo. Gently submerge the shrunken clothes and let them soak for about 30 minutes to relax the fibers.
Gently stretch the fabric: After soaking, carefully stretch the fabric in all directions. You can try pulling the garment gently from different directions to encourage it to regain some of its original shape.
Use towels to blot excess water: Lay the clothing item on a flat surface and place a towel on top. Roll the towel and the garment together to squeeze out excess water gently.
Reshape while damp: While the clothing is still damp, try to reshape it to its original dimensions. This can be a critical step in the process.
Air dry: Avoid using high heat during the drying process, as this can further shrink the fabric. Instead, lay the clothing flat on a towel and let it air dry.
Remember that the success of these methods can vary depending on the fabric type and the degree of shrinkage. Natural fibers like cotton and wool are more prone to shrinking than synthetic materials like polyester. Additionally, if the fabric has been heavily shrunk, it may be almost impossible to restore it to its original size.
Prevention is always the best approach, so it's essential to follow the washing and care instructions on the clothing label. When in doubt, use a gentle cycle with cold water and avoid high heat drying whenever possible.