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Ah, flannel: the fabric made for chilly days and autumn-hued dreams. You love that cozy feeling of flannel pajamas warming you up on a cold night and snuggling into your favorite blanket on a rainy day—but what happens when it comes time to do the laundry? Do you cringe at the thought of shrinking your beloved garments down to doll size? Well, not if you know how to care for flannel properly!
In this post, we’ll explore whether or not flannel shrinks, along with some tips and tricks for keeping them in tip-top condition.
Flannel is a popular fall fabric, ranging from flannel shirts to flannel bed sheets. Typically made of wool flannel or cotton flannel, flannels are brought to life with a fuzzy texture and warmth. However, when washing flannel clothing and linens, it is important to note that flannels tend to shrink if the water temperature is too hot—aka 120 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. Even though low-heat settings or warm water will do just fine, it is advised to set your washer to cool water to avoid any flannel-shrinking incidents.
To ensure your flannel items get cleaned yet untouched by heat damage, remember not to exceed the 120-degree mark for this beloved fall fabric!
When it comes to flannel, proper care is essential. Washing flannel fabric in hot water can cause it to shrink about 20 percent, which can be a waste of money if you have paid for a flannel shirt that comes out noticeably smaller. However, natural shrinkage can still occur even if the flannel is not washed in hot water.
Cotton flannel made of 100% cotton fibers will contract up to 3 or 4 percent, which could mean an inch or more of shrinkage, so even cheap flannel should be taken care of properly. While synthetic fiber flannels won't shrink as much, they are more prone to fading, so washing on a cool cycle is recommended. Taking these precautions will ensure your flannel stays the size you bought!
Natural fibers, such as cotton and wool, are incredibly sensitive to hot water. Therefore, it’s highly recommended that you wash your flannel in cold or low-heat water if you want to avoid shrinkage. If you use hot water during the washing process, most flannels will shrink two to three sizes – an approximate 20 percent reduction in fabric size!
This is why experts advise that those working with flannel for their project should give themselves a bit of extra leeway when it comes to their measurements by buying a quarter to half-size larger than normal. For clothing items made out of flannel, such as shirts and jackets, buyers should go one or two sizes bigger just to stay on the safe side.
Flannel is known for its soft, cozy texture and its warmth. But, if you treat it the same way it treats you, the heat from your washer and dryer can lead to shrinking.
The smart choice? Wash flannel using only cold or lukewarm temperature settings and dry on low heat or without using a dryer. By taking these necessary precautions, you can keep your flannel looking new for longer!
If you don't want to experience the disappointment of your beloved flannel shrinking, just abide by these few tips, and you'll be good to go!
It is important to take the time to read your care guide, as it can provide helpful instructions on how best to take care of your flannel. To ensure the longevity of your garment, searching for care instructions is key. Whether it’s on a label, side seam tag, or detachable one - make sure you take the time to look up their specific care guidelines!
A gentle cycle for washing and drying will help keep them looking fresh and avoid shrinkage. You should also consider the water temperature when washing—you may have to opt for warm instead of cool water when dealing with bed sheets made of flannel fabric. Doing this will ensure that your favorite flannels look great while preserving their shape and size.
As can be expected, adding fabric softener to a load of laundry can add harsh chemicals that could eventually lead to the shrinkage of your flannel fabric. But there is an effective alternative that should add protection and reduce any pilling: vinegar!
Vinegar should be added in the wash cycle at a standard rate of one-half cup per load running in either warm or cool water – but only for the first wash. With this simple addition, you no longer have to worry about the fibers of your beloved flannel pilling on the surface, and you have a safe way to add softness as well as protect against shrinking.
Undiluted bleach is anything but safe for flannel. Without water, it can tear your fabric apart at the seams and strip away its hue. Discoloration, worn-out fibers, color fading - all of these risks exist when you use pure bleach on a garment that needs to be cared for properly. To keep your flannels looking their best (and save them from an untimely death!), make sure to always dilute bleach with plenty of clean water before using it in any capacity!
You want to look your best, so don't skimp on the finer details: ironing a flannel shirt. It makes all the difference in achieving that crisp and straightened look. Follow this simple yet efficient guide for flawless results:
- Begin by plugging in your iron; allow ample time to heat up before proceeding.
- Choose either wool or cotton setting depending on the fabric blend, then spread out your flannel onto an iron board with the reverse side facing up.
- Spritz some water over sections you wish to smooth out and glide away with downward motions until wrinkles vanish!
If you live in a colder region, chances are you own some flannel fabric for its lovely toasty feel. Yet, if not handled properly, the beloved material may shrink and lose vibrancy over time. To keep your flannel feeling cozy and looking as good as new for years of use ahead, refer to our handy guide on how to treat it with care. By following these simple steps such as washing and ironing correctly, your favorite fabrics will remain vibrant while providing warmth all season long!
Now that you know how to take care of your flannel, why not use it in your next project? YourCotton’s 100% cotton flannel works for a wide range of different clothing, blankets, and more.
