13:23 18-09-2025

How to Unshrink a Sweater at Home with Hair Conditioner

Generated by Dall-e

Learn how to unshrink a sweater at home with hair conditioner or baby shampoo. A simple, budget-friendly method to restore your favorite clothes safely.

Favorite Sweater Shrunk After Washing? Don’t rush to toss it out. There’s a simple household trick that can help bring it back to size.

Why Sweaters Shrink

Wool, cashmere, and other delicate fabrics are especially prone to shrinking during washing. Hot water, fast spin cycles, and harsh detergents make fibers tighten and lose elasticity. Even cotton and blended fabrics aren’t always safe from this effect.

Hair Conditioner to the Rescue

Surprisingly, an ordinary hair conditioner—or even a gentle baby shampoo—can help. These products soften fibers, making the material more flexible and easier to stretch back into shape.

How to Restore a Sweater

• Fill a basin with warm water that feels comfortable to the touch.
• Add 2–3 tablespoons of conditioner or baby shampoo and stir well.
• Submerge the sweater fully and leave it overnight.
• Carefully press out excess water without wringing the fabric.
• Lay the sweater flat on a towel and gently stretch it to the desired size. For faster drying, you can cover it with another towel to absorb moisture.

Why This Method Works

It’s simple, inexpensive, and eco-friendly. Not only does it extend the life of a favorite garment, but it also saves money and reduces waste. And while your sweater may not return to its original size completely, it will almost certainly feel more comfortable to wear again.