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Can you unshrink a hoodie?

Published in Clothing Care 3 mins read

Yes, you can potentially unshrink a hoodie using a specific soaking method.

How to Unshrink Your Hoodie

It's frustrating when your favorite hoodie shrinks, but here's how you might be able to restore it, based on the reference provided:

The Soaking Method

This method uses a gentle approach to relax the fibers of the fabric, allowing you to stretch it back to its original size.

  1. Prepare the Solution:

    • Find a clean bucket or tub.
    • Fill it with lukewarm water.
    • Add one of these to the water:
      • Fabric softener
      • Baby shampoo
      • Hair conditioner
    • You don't need to add all of these, choose one.

  2. Soak the Hoodie:

    • Completely submerge the shrunk hoodie into the solution.
    • Make sure the whole garment is saturated.
    • Let it soak for at least 20 minutes. This allows the solution to penetrate the fibers.

  3. Remove Excess Water:

    • Carefully lift the hoodie from the water.
    • Do not wring or twist the fabric, which could damage it.
    • Lay the hoodie flat on a clean, dry towel.

  4. Roll and Press:

    • Gently roll the towel (with the hoodie inside) to absorb excess moisture.
    • Press down lightly to squeeze out the water.
    • Unroll the towel.

  5. Stretch and Reshape:

    • Lay the hoodie flat on a fresh, dry towel, or a flat surface.
    • Gently stretch the hoodie, focusing on the areas that have shrunk the most.
    • You can stretch it back to its original shape and size. Be careful not to overstretch.

  6. Air Dry:

    • Let the hoodie air dry completely. Do not put it in the dryer.
    • You can check the fit as it dries, and stretch it further if needed.

What to Expect

  • This method works best on natural fibers like cotton.
  • It may not fully restore a hoodie that has shrunk drastically.
  • The results can vary depending on the severity of the shrinkage and the fabric type.

Important Notes

  • Avoid heat: Heat is a major cause of shrinkage, so always wash in cold or lukewarm water and air dry.
  • Gentle care: When washing, choose a gentle cycle.
  • Avoid the dryer: High heat can cause shrinkage.
Step Description
1. Prepare Solution Fill a bucket with lukewarm water and add fabric softener, baby shampoo, or hair conditioner.
2. Soak Hoodie Submerge the shrunk hoodie in the solution for at least 20 minutes.
3. Remove Water Lift hoodie, lay on towel, roll towel to remove excess water.
4. Stretch Gently stretch the hoodie back to its original shape.
5. Air Dry Allow the hoodie to air dry completely, not in the dryer.

This method, by relaxing the fibers with a gentle solution, offers a chance to restore your shrunk hoodie to a wearable state.

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