Clothes can shrink due to both washing and drying processes, but the primary factor that causes shrinkage is the heat involved during these processes.
Washing: The agitation and heat during washing can cause the fibers in the fabric to contract and tighten, leading to some degree of shrinkage. Different types of fabrics react differently to heat and water, so some fabrics are more prone to shrinkage than others.
Drying: The most significant factor that causes clothes to shrink is the drying process. When you expose wet clothes to high heat, such as in a dryer, the fibers can contract and cause the garment to become smaller. This effect is more pronounced in natural fibers like cotton and wool.
The combination of washing and drying can amplify the shrinkage effect. For example, if you wash a garment in hot water and then put it in a high-heat dryer, it's more likely to shrink significantly compared to using cold water and air-drying.
To minimize shrinkage, you can take the following precautions:
Read the care labels: Always check the care labels on your clothes for specific washing and drying instructions. Some clothes may require cold water washing or air-drying to prevent shrinkage.
Use cold water: When washing clothes, use cold water instead of hot water. Cold water is less likely to cause as much shrinkage as hot water.
Air-dry or low-heat drying: Whenever possible, air-dry your clothes or use the lowest heat setting on your dryer. High heat can lead to more significant shrinkage.
Don't overdry: If you're using a dryer, try to remove the clothes while they are slightly damp. Overdrying can lead to excessive shrinkage.
Consider pre-shrunk fabrics: Some clothing manufacturers offer pre-shrunk fabrics, which have undergone a process to minimize further shrinkage.
Overall, being mindful of the washing and drying processes and following the care instructions can help you preserve the size and fit of your clothes and reduce the risk of excessive shrinkage.