How to Unshrink Clothes

How to unshrink clothes is a question many of us face after an unfortunate laundry mishap. We've all been there–pulling a favourite garment from the wash only to find it's shrunk dramatically. Whether it's a cosy jumper or a beloved t-shirt, incorrect washing can cause fabrics to contract and lose their original shape.

But before you consider discarding these items, contributing to textile waste, there's good news: many shrunken clothes can be salvaged! Not only does this save you money, but it's also a sustainable choice that reduces your environmental impact.

This article will guide you through simple, effective methods to restore your shrunken clothes to their former glory, covering various fabric types and offering step-by-step instructions to give your garments a second chance.

Don’t give up hope on your shrunken garments just yet. It’s possible, and surprisingly easy, to unshrink many types of clothes in just a few steps.

In most scenarios, you just need a bucket, bath, or sink of warm water and fabric or hair conditioner to do so.

Whether your favourite jumper shrunk quickly after accidentally ending up in the drier, or it gradually lost its shape over time, wool is one of those fabrics we believe is no-good after shrinkage. But in reality, you can unshrink wool, just as you can unshrunk many other types of garments.

In a process similar to unshrinking other clothes, you need a container full of lukewarm water, but as wool is more delicate, opt for a super gentle conditioner or baby shampoo instead.

Ready to unshrink your clothing?

To begin, you will need:

• Your shrunken garment
• A container full of lukewarm water. For wool items, keep the water on the cooler side
• Gentle fabric conditioner, hair conditioner, or baby shampoo, depending on your garment
• Two large towels

Step 1: Soak in lukewarm water

Fill your container with lukewarm water and add a small amount of your conditioner (about a capful or teaspoon). Mix until a small amount of bubbles appear.

Fully immerse your garment under the water. You may have to hold it under for a few seconds whilst the fibres absorb the water. Soak for 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the fabric and degree of shrinkage.

Step 2: Squeeze our excess water

Drain your sink or remove your garment from the water. Do not rinse it, we want the conditioner to remain in the fibres. Gently squeeze out the water.

Lay your towel out onto a flat surface and place your garment on top. Roll the towel up with the garment inside, applying gentle pressure to absorb excess water,

Let it sit rolled up like this for 10 minutes or fewer. You don’t want to misshape your garment, it should still be damp. Unroll the towel and transfer your garment to a dry towel.

Step 3: Stretch out your garment back to its original size

Begin by focusing on one section of the garment at a time. Gently stretch the fabric with your hands, holding each stretch for a few seconds to help retain the new shape. If needed, use pins or small weights to hold the stretched fabric in place as it dries.

For sleeves, hold the inner seam of the cuff with one hand and the shoulder with the other. Gently stretch the fabric between these points.

When working on the waist, hold both side seams near the bottom of the garment and carefully pull outwards to stretch the waist area.

To address overall length, grasp the top of the garment (shoulders or collar) with one hand and the bottom hem with the other, then gently stretch vertically.

Continue this process until you've stretched your garment to its original size. If it has shrunk significantly, you may need to repeat the entire unshrinking process.

Once you're satisfied with the size, leave the garment to air dry flat. If you've used pins or weights, keep them in place during drying.

Your garment is now unshrunk and ready to wear. 

For wool items, keep an eye on them after every wash. Aim to dry them flat, gently stretching them out if you notice any shrinkage. This ongoing care will help maintain their shape over time.

Ready to refresh your wardrobe sustainably? Shop Oxfam online for unique, pre-loved fashion finds.