Accidentally tossed your favorite tee or hoodie into a hot dryer and now it’s too tight? You’re not alone. While you can’t always reverse shrinkage 100%, there are simple tricks to gently stretch clothes back to a comfortable fit.
1. Why Clothes Shrink
Shrinkage usually happens when high heat and agitation cause fibers to tighten. Cotton, wool, and some blends are especially sensitive to hot water and dryers.
2. The Conditioner Soak Method (T-Shirts & Light Sweatshirts)
This method relaxes fibers so you can stretch them.
- Fill a basin with lukewarm water.
- Add 1–2 tablespoons of hair conditioner or baby shampoo.
- Submerge the T-shirt and soak for 20–30 minutes.
- Gently squeeze out excess water (do not wring).
- Lay flat on a towel and carefully stretch in all directions.
- Let it air-dry flat, reshaping as it dries.
3. Towel Roll Method for Hoodies
- After a lukewarm soak with mild detergent or conditioner, lay the hoodie flat on a large towel.
- Roll the towel up with the hoodie inside to remove excess water.
- Unroll and gently stretch the body and sleeves to the desired length.
- Dry flat on a new dry towel.
4. Blocking for Sweaters & Ugly Sweaters
“Blocking” is a technique used for knits.
- Soak the sweater in cool water with wool detergent.
- Press out water with a towel.
- Lay the sweater flat on a dry towel or blocking mat.
- Pin or gently shape it back to original measurements.
- Let it air-dry completely.
5. What You Can’t Fix
Extreme shrinkage or melting from very high heat can’t always be reversed. Synthetic prints that wrinkle or crack from heat are also permanent.
6. How to Prevent Shrinkage Next Time
- Always wash in cold water.
- Use the “delicate” cycle for cotton and knits.
- Air-dry whenever possible — especially for hoodies and sweaters.
Related Products
Looking for pieces that handle wash better? Explore our:
– T-Shirt Collection
Internal Resources
Pair this guide with:
- How to Wash T-Shirts Without Fading or Shrinking
- How to Wash and Store Your Ugly Christmas Sweater for Next Year
Final Thought: Don’t panic when something shrinks. Work slowly, be gentle, and you’ll often get back most of the original fit.
