Clothing materials that naturally shrink are typically made from natural fibers such as cotton, wool, and linen. These materials are known to shrink when they are washed or dried at high temperatures. Before washing or drying any piece of clothing, it’s crucial to read the care label because some items may need specific attention to avoid shrinking.
Cotton Clothing
One of the most popular fabrics for clothing is cotton, which shrinks when exposed to extreme heat. This is because cellulose, a polymer that can degrade when exposed to heat and water, makes up cotton fibres. The cotton fibres shrink as a result, resulting in a thinner cloth. Cotton clothes should ideally be washed in cold water, dried on a low heat setting, or air dried to avoid shrinking.
Wool Clothing
Another natural material that can shrink in the presence of heat and water is wool. Scales that make up the structure of wool fibres can contract when exposed to heat and moisture. The fibres shrink as a result of this compression, making the clothes smaller. Wool clothes should be washed in cold water and dried flat or on a low heat setting to avoid shrinkage.
Linen Clothing
When exposed to heat and moisture, linen, a natural material derived from the flax plant, is known to shrink. Because they are composed of cellulose, linen fibres resemble cotton fibres in structure. The fabric shrinks and gets thinner when it is exposed to heat and moisture. Clothing made of linen needs to be washed in cold water, dried on a low heat setting, or air dried to avoid shrinking.
Synthetic Clothing
Natural fibres like cotton and wool are more likely to shrink than synthetic ones like polyester and nylon. Since these fabrics are constructed of synthetic polymers, they are not as susceptible to heat and moisture as natural fibres are. However, if subjected to intense heat for an extended length of time, synthetic materials can still shrink. Synthetic clothing needs to be washed and dried on a low heat setting to avoid shrinkage.
Clothing Materials That Shrinks
It is well known that natural fibres like cotton, wool, and linen shrink when exposed to heat and moisture. These materials need to be washed in cold water, dried on a low heat setting, or air dried to avoid shrinking. Despite having a lower likelihood of shrinking, synthetic materials can nevertheless do so if subjected to intense heat for an extended amount of time. Synthetic clothing needs to be washed and dried on a low heat setting to avoid shrinkage.
