Ever pulled your favourite T-shirt out of the wash only to find it now fits like it belongs to your younger sibling? Or noticed your once-black jeans looking more like a washed-out grey? Shrinking and fading are two of the biggest laundry frustrations, and they often happen because of small mistakes that many of us don’t even realise we’re making. Here are some laundry hacks to help you out.
Luckily, with a few simple tricks (and the help of professional laundry services in Centurion), you can keep your clothes looking fresh, vibrant, and fitting just the way they should. Let’s break down what’s causing the problem and how to fix it.
The Biggest Laundry Mistakes That Cause Shrinking and Fading
Doing laundry isn’t exactly rocket science, but a few bad habits can seriously shorten the lifespan of your clothes. One of the biggest culprits is washing with water that’s too hot. High temperatures cause fabrics to contract, which is why a perfectly fitting cotton shirt can come out two sizes smaller. Here are some laundry hacks to improve your load.
Then there’s the detergent issue. Too much or too harsh, and you strip the colour right out of your clothes. Ever noticed your favourite T-shirt looking dull after just a few washes? That’s detergent damage at work.
Overloading the machine is another common mistake. Stuffing too many clothes into one wash means they don’t get cleaned properly, colours rub against each other, and the fabric wears out faster.
And let’s not forget tumble drying. While it’s convenient, blasting your clothes with heat is the fastest way to shrink them. Wool jerseys, cotton hoodies, and even your go-to summer chinos can all end up a size too small if they’re not dried correctly.
Why Does This Happen? The Science Behind Shrinking and Fading
Fabrics react to heat and water in different ways. Natural fibres like cotton, wool, and linen absorb moisture and swell during washing. When they dry, especially with heat, the fibres tighten up, causing shrinkage.
Fading happens because fabric dyes break down over time, and things like hot water, harsh detergents, and UV exposure (yes, even from the sun while drying) speed up the process. That’s why your favourite black jeans start looking grey after a few washes.
Synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon hold their colour better, but they’re not immune to heat damage. Wash them wrong, and they’ll lose their shape or become stiff and uncomfortable to wear.
Washing certain fabrics in hot water can cause significant damage, leading to shrinkage, loss of shape, fading, or reduced functionality. Experts advise against using hot water for delicate materials like silk, lace, cashmere, and specific synthetics, as the heat can distort these fabrics and diminish their softness. Activewear, along with underwear and bras, should also be washed in cooler temperatures to preserve their elasticity and support, as hot water can break down elastic fibers. Additionally, embellished garments may lose decorations, and dark or colored items can fade when exposed to hot water. Crocheted blankets, leather items, denim, and high-thread count towels are also susceptible to damage, stiffness, brittleness, or loss of absorbency and plushness when washed in hot water. To maintain the quality and longevity of these items, it is recommended to wash them in cooler temperatures.
On the other hand, certain items can benefit from hot water washing. Shower curtains, for example, can be cleaned effectively in hot water on a gentle cycle with regular detergent, ensuring they remain free from mold and mildew. White clothes and heavily soiled towels can also be washed in hot water to help remove stains and maintain brightness. Additionally, cloth diapers and baby items may require hot water washing to sanitize them properly, keeping them safe for a baby’s sensitive skin. Always check the care labels on your garments to determine the appropriate washing temperature and method, ensuring that each item receives the care it needs to maintain its quality and extend its lifespan.
How Professional Laundry Services in Centurion Keep Your Clothes Looking New
If you’re tired of your clothes losing their shape or colour too quickly, it might be time to let the pros handle it. A professional laundry service in Centurion knows exactly how to treat different fabrics to make sure they stay in top condition.
Instead of exposing clothes to high temperatures, professional laundries use controlled washing and drying methods that prevent shrinkage. They also use fabric-specific detergents that clean without stripping away colour, keeping clothes bright and fresh for longer.
Ever had a linen suit that lost its crisp feel after washing at home? Or a wool jersey that came out looking two sizes too small? That’s where professional laundry services come in. They know how to handle delicate fabrics, so your clothes always come back looking their best.
Shrinking and fading aren’t just annoying—they can ruin your favourite outfits. The good news is that with a few small changes, you can keep your clothes looking newer for longer. Avoid hot washes, don’t overload the machine, go easy on the detergent, and be careful with tumble drying.
If you want a guaranteed way to protect your wardrobe, professional laundry services in Centurion are the way to go. Whether it’s everyday wear or special garments that need extra care, leaving it to the experts means no more laundry disasters.
Looking for a reliable laundry service in Centurion? Get in touch today and let’s keep your clothes in top shape!
