Can You Unshrink a Wool Sweater? – Everything You Should Know About Sweater Care Tips

Sweaters are not only extremely warm but also true style artists who can be paired in a number of creative ways. However, there is one annoying thing about wearing sweaters, which is that they easily shrink after each wash. It’s difficult to choose the size of sweaters because they can fit snugly when first bought, […]

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Published 20 Jun 2022
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Sweaters are not only extremely warm but also true style artists who can be paired in a number of creative ways. However, there is one annoying thing about wearing sweaters, which is that they easily shrink after each wash. It’s difficult to choose the size of sweaters because they can fit snugly when first bought, but over time they shrink by one to two sizes and depending on the material they have different shrinkages. Fortunately, there are several effective methods that can help you to deal with this issue. Sparkling and Beyond will show you the way to take care of your shrunken sweater as well as how to unshrink a sweater. 

There are many types of sweaters but in this article, we will focus on basic and easy instructions for some popular sweaters such as: wool sweater, merino wool sweater, andand cashmere sweater. 

How to unshrink wool

Any natural fiber, including wool, cashmere, and cotton (as long as it isn’t felted), works well with the procedure just outlined to unshrink wool. Blends and synthetic fibers are generally resistant as well to shrinking efforts.

Wool Sweater 

What is wool sweater?

A wool sweater is a garment made from the fleece of sheep or other animals. Wool is known for its warmth, softness, and durability, making it a popular choice for sweaters. These sweaters are perfect for cold weather as they provide excellent insulation while remaining breathable. Proper care for wool clothes is essential to maintain their shape and prevent shrinkage.

Wool fabric is manufactured from natural fibers such as fleece, rabbit fur, camels, etc. Wool is a particularly elastic raw material since it is mostly composed of keratin-based proteins.

wool-sweater

What is Wool Sweater (Source: Imternet)

  • How to unshrink a wool sweater

Restore your favorite knit piece to its original state in only 7 simple steps:

Step 1: Fill your sink halfway with lukewarm water and a third of a cup of hair conditioner or fabric softener.

Step 2:  Allow about 10 minutes for the jumper to soak.

Step 3:  Remove the stopper and allow the water to drain.

Step 4: Jumper against the sink’s sides to rinse it out, but do not wring it out.

Step 5: To dry the jumper, lay it flat on an absorbent towel, then place another towel on top and gently press.

Step 6: Return the sweater to its original shape by stretching it.

Step 7: Allow to dry naturally on an airer.

Merino wool 

What is merino wool?

Merino wool is wool derived from the coats of Merino sheep. Wool is appreciated for its softness, and the natural fiber is incredibly fine. While conventional wool is notoriously scratchy, merino wool is one of the softest types of wool and does not irritate the skin. This is due to the tiny merino fibers’ small diameter, which makes it more flexible and pliable, and hence less irritating. Proper care for wool clothing, including merino wool, ensures its longevity and maintains its quality.

Merino-Wool-Women-Turtleneck.

Merino wool sweater (Source: Internet)

Merino wool

  • How to unshrink a merino  wool sweater

Step 1: Fill a tub or sink halfway with warm water.

Step 2: In the water, dissolve a generous amount of conditioner.

Step 3: Soak the merino wool garment for a few minutes.

Step 4: Squeeze out any excess water before lying flat on a towel.

Step 5: Reshape as needed, then repeat.

Step 6: Wash and dry your merino wool.

  • When dry-cleaned, does cashmere shrink?

The majority of the labels on your Cashmere indicate “dry clean only”. Dry cleaning is the second-best option after hand washing for cleaning a cashmere fabric and it doesn’t cause the cashmere fabric shrinkage.

Dry cleaning may not cause immediate harm to the fabric but it can cause long-term damage in the form of early pilling. The fabric is soaked in chemicals during the dry cleaning process. These chemicals produce slow but steady damage.

cashmere

When dry-cleaned, does cashmere shrink Cashmere fiber (Source: Internet)

  • How to unshrink a cashmere sweater 

The easiest method to care for your cashmere is to hand wash it in lukewarm or cold water. The procedure takes time. But the effort is worthwhile.

Step 1: Hand wash your cashmere sweaters for 10 minutes in cold water with light detergent. Hot water should be avoided as it may induce more shrinkage.

Step 2: Press the fabric gently with your fingertips to remove excess water. Then, place your cashmere on a flat surface.

Step 3: Pull in opposite directions slowly and gently, stretching the fabric in small portions at a time. In a word, you must pulse the fabric to allow the fibers to relax and then be stretched properly. (This stage can either make or break your cashmere. You risk stretching a hole in your sweater if you are not patient enough or if the cloth is of poor quality. Recognize that your fabric is sensitive and proceed with caution).

Step 4: Maintain consistency while stretching the fabric.

Step 5: Try to extend long parts at once. If you work on smaller parts with just a couple of fingers.

Step 6: Allow it to dry once it has been stretched out to the appropriate form or dimension (for a couple of days).

Preventing Shrinkage in Wool Sweaters

Preventing shrinkage in wool sweaters is crucial to maintaining their shape and size. To keep your favorite wool sweater looking its best, it’s essential to follow the care instructions for wool garments. Here are some tips to help you prevent shrinkage:

  • Wash in Cold Water: Always wash your wool sweater in cold water using a mild detergent specifically designed for washing wool. Hot water can cause the wool fibers to shrink, so it’s best to avoid it.
  • Gentle Hand Wash: Gently hand wash your wool sweater, or use a gentle cycle on your washing machine. Avoid agitating the water or wringing the sweater, as this can cause the wool fibers to felt and shrink.
  • Reshape While Damp: After washing, reshape your wool sweater while it’s still damp to help it retain its original shape. Lay it flat on a dry towel and gently stretch it back to its original dimensions.
  • Dry Flat: Dry your wool sweater flat on a dry towel, away from direct sunlight and heat. Air drying on a flat surface helps prevent the wool fibers from shrinking further.

By following these tips, you can help prevent shrinkage in your wool sweaters and keep them looking their best.

The Unshrinking Process

If your wool sweater has shrunk, don’t worry! The unshrinking process can help restore it to its original size and shape. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to unshrink a wool sweater:

Step 1: Mix a Soaking Solution

To start the unshrinking process, you’ll need to mix a soaking solution. Fill a sink or a large tub with lukewarm water, and add 2 tablespoons of baby shampoo or hair conditioner. Mix the solution well to ensure the shampoo or conditioner is fully dissolved.

Step 2: Soak the Sweater

Gently add your wool sweater to the soaking solution, making sure it’s fully submerged. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes to an hour. This will help relax the wool fibers and prepare them for stretching.

Step 3: Remove Excess Water and Block the Sweater

After soaking, gently remove your wool sweater from the solution without rinsing it. Use a dry towel to gently squeeze out excess water without wringing or twisting the sweater. Then, lay the sweater flat on a dry towel and reshape it to its original dimensions. Use a blocking tool or a large corkboard to help hold the sweater in place while it dries. Allow the sweater to air dry away from direct sunlight and heat.

By following these steps, you can help unshrink your wool sweater and restore it to its original size and shape. Remember to be patient, as the unshrinking process can take some time.

How to maintain the new look of your sweaters

1. Labels aren’t deceiving

The label is the first and foremost thing you need to pay attention to. It’s critical that you follow the directions on the label. Don’t put it in the washing machine if it says “dry clean only.” If it says “wash on delicate cycle,” make sure you use it. If it says to lay flat to dry, follow the advice! This could be the explanation for the sweater’s durability or lack thereof. Also, if you’re looking for a sweater that doesn’t require dry cleaning, make sure to read the labels first.

2. Select the appropriate fold

This is something we’re sure you’ve heard before, but it’s crucial. Sweaters are often delicate, and even the tiniest “pull” at them can utterly damage them. Hanging them will cause them to stretch, something no one likes. No matter what, always fold your sweaters.

3.  Remove the lint from your clothes

 Examine your sweaters on a regular basis for lint and other unwelcome fuzz. Having a lint roller available will save you from ever having to deal with the unpleasant predicament of already being soiled.

Conclusion 

When it comes to shrunken sweaters, rarely do people know that it can turned to their original size with just some tips and tricks. The simple techniques on how to unshrink a sweater we provided may help you get your clothes back in size and maintain it. There are many other interesting hacks to do laundry easily and effectively that you may need for your clothes such as How To Unshrink A Shirt In 5 StepsHow To Get Oil Stains Out Of ClothesHow To Use Bleach In Laundry To Restore The Whiteness Of Your Clothes, etc. Having worked in cleaning services for years, Sparkling and Beyond also provide a range of Housing cleaning services that are studied and practiced by our experienced cleaning experts. If you are tired of maintaining your house clean, let us take care of it. Simply give us a request, our enthusiastic staff will contact you soon.

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