PROBLEM
SHRINKAGE, KNITS
IN
PERMANENT PRESS
“NO-IRON”
POSSIBLE CAUSE
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Relaxation shrinkage can occur in knit fabrics that have been improperly
stretched and elongated by the manufacturer. When this occurs, garment may
be pressed back into shape after each wash and dry cycle.
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Progressive or delayed shrinkage is caused when starch or sizing (in some
fabrics) is gradually removed by laundering. Maybe noticed in older garments
that have been laundered many times without previous shrinkage. Treat as for
Relaxation Shrinkage above.
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Shrinkage caused by overheating occurs in certain knit fabrics that have
been heat-shaped. When washing, drying or ironing temperatures exceed the
temperatures used to shape set, shrinkage may occur. This cannot be corrected,
but it can be prevented by washing in cold or warm water; drying on low heat.
Leaving clothes in dryer after tumbling stops. Remove clothes promptly and
hang them immediately.
●
Too many items in dryer. Dry only one washer load at a time. Do not
combine loads.
●
Too few items in dryer. If drying only one article, add two or more similar
articles, even if dry, to insure proper tumbling.
●
Improper loads. Avoid laundering heavy Permanent Press items, such as work
clothes, with lighter Permanent Press items, such as shirts or blouses. do not
wash or dry Permanent Press with regular laundry.
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Too many clothes in washer. Items must have room to move freely.
Permanent Press loads should always be smaller than regular loads . . .
no more than medium loads.
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Use of incorrect wash and dry cycles. Use Permanent Press wash cycle
which provides a cool-down rinse to minimize wrinkling. Also, use Permanent
Press (Medium) drying cycle.
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Incorrect water level. Use large water level for medium load; medium level
or half full for small load.
Washing repeatedly in too hot water. Wash in cool or warm water with
plenty of detergent.
Accumulation of lime scale due to use of carbonate detergents. If you must
use a non-phosphate detergent, avoid the use of a high-carbonate detergent.
●
Failure to use fabric softener. Proper use of fabric softener will
minimize wrinkling.
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