Woollen garments are natural, interlocking fibres with air pockets in between. Should you wash your winter woollies in a warm or rigorous wash, the interlocking fibres will lock together, eliminating air pockets and "shrinking" the fabrics. This process is actually called "felting". The wool technically does not shrink, but "felts" - becoming denser and less flexible.
Before you chuck out your miniature-sized sweater, try this technique:
Soak It Up
Fill a sink, basin or bucket with tepid (cool) water and add 2 tablespoons of hair conditioner to soften and relax the fibres. Soak for 30 minutes. Remove the sweater without rinsing. Allow to drain.
Roll & Stretch
Roll the sweater in a towel to remove excess moisture (leave some dampness) then begin stretching out. Begin by laying the sweater out flat on a clean, dry towel. Gently pull on different areas of the sweater to regain it's original shape and size- you'll notice that the fibres will stay pulled apart and will not immediately shrink back. Excess caution here as it's impossible to re-shrink sections with your hands if you overstretch them.
Dry It Out
Leave the sweater laying perfectly flat in a cool, dry place and leave to dry. You will need to give the garment several hours of drying time on each side, replacing the towel when you turn it over. Do not use any heat from a dryer, hairdryer or so on. The absence of heat from the drying process allows the wool fibres to set in place without locking together and shrinking the garment again
If the sweater is beyond repair, why not get crafty with the fabric! You could use the fabric to make a felted purse or even flippers. You may just find a new hobby!
And for next time, follow our Washing Woollens blog entry
elaundry can also help stretch your shrunken woollens back to their original shape. SMS your pickup address to 0438 80 80 80, email valet@elaundry.com.auor Order a Pickup Online.
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