Here’s how to unshrink your clothes:
- 1. Fill a sink or basin with lukewarm water
- 2. Add baby shampoo or hair conditioner
- 3. Soak for 30 minutes
- 4. Press out the excess water
- 5. Gently stretch the garment back to its original shape
- 6. Roll it up in a towel
- 7. Lay flat to air dry
You’re getting ready to wear that favorite shirt, sweater, or pair of jeans, and bam—suddenly, it’s a size too small. Maybe it’s the heat of the dryer or that accidental run through warm water, but whatever the cause, you’re staring down the sad, shrunken version of your once-beloved clothing.
It’s frustrating, but before you spiral into a shopping frenzy, here’s the good news: There’s hope. You can unshrink your clothes and get them back to their former glory.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through seven easy steps to restore your clothes to their original shape—because who says a laundry mishap has to end in tragedy?
1. Fill a Sink or Basin with Lukewarm Water
First things first: Don’t toss your shrunken clothes into the washing machine in a desperate attempt to “fix” them. That’s a one-way ticket to disappointment. Instead, fill a clean sink or basin with lukewarm water.
It’s crucial to use lukewarm, not hot, water—because too much heat is what got you into this mess in the first place. Lukewarm water will gently relax the fibers without causing further shrinkage.
2. Add Baby Shampoo or Hair Conditioner
Now comes the magic ingredient: baby shampoo or hair conditioner. These products can help unshrink fabric by softening the fibers. When fabric shrinks, the fibers tighten, but the shampoo or conditioner loosens them, making the material more flexible. This allows the fabric to gently stretch back to its original shape without causing damage, giving you a better shot at restoring its size.
3. Soak for 30 Minutes
Let your garment soak for about 30 minutes. During this time, the fibers are absorbing the conditioner and loosening up, which is exactly what you want. No need to aggressively scrub or agitate—just let the fabric do its thing. This step is where patience comes in, but trust us, it’ll pay off.
4. Press Out Excess Water
After 30 minutes, it’s time to remove your clothes from the basin. Don’t wring or twist them—remember, this is all about being gentle. Instead, press out the excess water. Gently press the fabric between your hands or against the side of the sink. You want to remove the water without distorting the shape of the fabric.
5. Gently Stretch It Back to Its Original Shape
Here’s where the magic really happens: stretching. Lay your garment on a flat surface, like a clean towel, and begin to gently stretch it back to its original size. Focus on the areas that shrunk the most—think sleeves, waistlines, or hems. Don’t go wild, just gently pull on the fabric until it looks like the size you remember. This is where the real “unshrinking” happens.
6. Roll It Up with a Towel
After you’ve stretched it, roll the garment up in a clean, dry towel. This helps absorb even more water and also helps maintain the garment’s shape. Don’t press too hard—just a light roll. It’s kind of like a cozy wrap for your clothes while they dry, preventing any extra stretching or damage.
7. Lay Flat to Air Dry
Now that you’ve done all the hard work, lay your garment flat on a dry towel to air dry. Don’t hang it up or throw it in the dryer—those options are what got you into trouble to begin with.
Air drying flat is the best way to preserve the shape, size, and softness of your fabric. Not to mention, it helps maximize the fragrance of your favorite Laundry Sauce fragrance.
3 Tips to Prevent Future Shrinkage
Now that you’ve successfully unshrunk your clothes, let’s talk about how to avoid this drama in the future. Shrinkage can be a real buzzkill, but with these simple tips, you’ll keep your favorite items safe and sound.
1. Read Your Garment’s Care Label
It’s easy to skip over care instructions, but taking a quick glance can save your clothes from an untimely shrinkage disaster. Follow those guidelines closely for the best results.
2. Wash With Cold Water
Cold water is your new best friend. It’s gentle on fabrics, keeps your clothes from shrinking, and helps your laundry detergent fragrance last longer. Bonus: Cold water washing can help lower your energy bill.
3. Air Dry Your Garments
If you’re worried about shrinkage, avoid the dryer at all costs. Instead, opt for air drying. Lay your clothes flat, and give them the time they need to dry naturally—your clothes will thank you later.
Common Questions About Unshrinking Clothes
You’ve unshrunk your clothes, but we get it—you still have questions. Here are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to fabric recovery.
Is It Possible to Unshrink All Types of Clothes?
While most fabrics, like cotton and wool, can be unshrunk with the right technique, delicate fabrics like silk may require more specialized care. Always check your fabric type before attempting to unshrink.
Does Fabric Softener Unshrink Clothes?
Fabric softener is great for making clothes feel soft, but it doesn’t do much for unshrinking. Stick with baby shampoo or conditioner for that.
Can Dry Cleaners Unshrink Clothes?
Dry cleaners may be able to help, depending on the fabric, but it’s best to try the DIY method first. Dry cleaning can be a bit harsh on delicate fabrics, so it’s worth giving the unshrinking process a go at home.
Your Clothes Deserve to Smell as Great as They Look
When your clothes fit just right, your confidence hits a new level—but smelling like a synthetic flower garden? Not so much. That’s where Laundry Sauce comes in.
We couldn’t stand seeing laundry scents being treated as an afterthought, especially since you wear them every day. So we collaborated with renowned perfumers to bring premium fragrances into the laundry room, like Australian Sandalwood, Italian Bergamot, and French Saffron.
Whether your vibe is bold and sophisticated or low-key and leisurely, we have a fragrance to complement any outfit. Not sure where to start? Take our 2-minute scent quiz.
