How to Stretch Out Shrunken Clothes: When Life Gives You Lemons, Make a Wardrobe Stretcher

Shrunken clothes can be a frustrating experience, especially when your favorite sweater or pair of jeans no longer fits. However, there are several methods you can try to stretch out shrunken clothes and restore them to their original size. In this article, we will explore various techniques, from simple home remedies to more advanced methods, to help you salvage your beloved garments.
Understanding Why Clothes Shrink
Before diving into the solutions, it’s essential to understand why clothes shrink in the first place. Shrinkage typically occurs due to the following reasons:
- Heat Exposure: High temperatures, especially during washing and drying, can cause fibers to contract.
- Fiber Type: Natural fibers like cotton and wool are more prone to shrinking compared to synthetic fibers.
- Mechanical Action: Agitation during washing can cause fibers to tighten and shrink.
Methods to Stretch Out Shrunken Clothes
1. Soaking in Lukewarm Water with Conditioner
One of the most common methods to stretch out shrunken clothes is by soaking them in lukewarm water mixed with hair conditioner. Here’s how to do it:
- Step 1: Fill a basin with lukewarm water.
- Step 2: Add a generous amount of hair conditioner to the water.
- Step 3: Submerge the shrunken garment in the water and let it soak for 30 minutes.
- Step 4: Gently stretch the garment while it’s still wet, pulling it back to its original shape.
- Step 5: Lay the garment flat on a towel and roll it up to remove excess water.
- Step 6: Reshape the garment and let it air dry.
2. Using a Fabric Stretching Spray
Fabric stretching sprays are specially formulated to relax fibers and make them more pliable. Here’s how to use them:
- Step 1: Lay the shrunken garment on a flat surface.
- Step 2: Spray the fabric stretching spray evenly over the garment.
- Step 3: Gently stretch the garment in all directions.
- Step 4: Allow the garment to air dry while maintaining the stretched shape.
3. Blocking Technique for Knits
Blocking is a technique commonly used for knitted garments to reshape them. Here’s how to block a shrunken knit:
- Step 1: Soak the garment in lukewarm water for 15-20 minutes.
- Step 2: Gently squeeze out excess water without wringing.
- Step 3: Lay the garment on a clean, dry towel and shape it to the desired size.
- Step 4: Pin the edges of the garment to a blocking board or another flat surface to maintain the shape.
- Step 5: Allow the garment to air dry completely before removing the pins.
4. Using a Garment Steamer
A garment steamer can help relax the fibers and make them easier to stretch. Here’s how to use a steamer:
- Step 1: Hang the shrunken garment on a hanger.
- Step 2: Use the garment steamer to steam the entire garment, paying extra attention to the shrunken areas.
- Step 3: While the garment is still warm, gently stretch it back to its original size.
- Step 4: Allow the garment to cool and dry in the stretched position.
5. Professional Alteration
If home remedies don’t work, consider taking your shrunken clothes to a professional tailor or alteration service. They have specialized tools and techniques to stretch and reshape garments effectively.
Preventing Future Shrinkage
To avoid the hassle of stretching out shrunken clothes, follow these tips to prevent shrinkage:
- Read Care Labels: Always check the care labels on your clothes for washing and drying instructions.
- Wash in Cold Water: Use cold water for washing to minimize the risk of shrinkage.
- Air Dry: Whenever possible, air dry your clothes instead of using a dryer.
- Avoid Overloading the Washer: Overloading can cause excessive agitation, leading to shrinkage.
Related Q&A
Q: Can I use baby shampoo instead of hair conditioner to stretch out shrunken clothes?
A: Yes, baby shampoo can be used as an alternative to hair conditioner. It works similarly by softening the fibers, making them easier to stretch.
Q: How many times can I stretch a shrunken garment before it loses its shape permanently?
A: It depends on the fabric and the extent of shrinkage. Generally, you can stretch a garment a few times, but repeated stretching may weaken the fibers and affect the garment’s longevity.
Q: Is it possible to stretch out shrunken shoes as well?
A: Yes, you can stretch out shrunken shoes using shoe stretchers or by wearing them with thick socks while they are still damp. However, the success rate varies depending on the material of the shoes.
Q: Can I use a blow dryer to speed up the drying process after stretching?
A: It’s not recommended to use a blow dryer, as the heat can cause further shrinkage. Always air dry the garment to maintain the stretched shape.
By following these methods and tips, you can effectively stretch out shrunken clothes and extend the life of your favorite garments. Remember, patience and gentle handling are key to achieving the best results.