You love your comfortable old merino wool sweater. But somebody threw it in the washer and dryer and now it’s shrunk. Is there any way of unshrinking a merino wool sweater? Read this guide and let’s see if we can save your cherished garment! 

Aran Sweater Market knows just about everything there is to know about maintaining and fixing wool sweaters. Our 100% wool sweaters are part of a tradition stretching back generations. 

We know how to clean wool sweaters, how to get rid of sweater pills and how to unshrink a merino wool sweater using time-honored methods. But you should set your expectations - sometimes, a merino wool sweater can’t be unshrunk. That’s why it’s so important to avoid shrinking a merino wool sweater in the first place.

This is to say if you find that you need a new merino wool sweater, look no further than Aran Sweater Market! When you buy one of our sweaters, you’re investing in an heirloom that will last for generations with proper care. Check out our selection today!

Why Did My Merino Wool Sweater Shrink

Many people wonder, why did my merino wool sweater shrink in the first place? There are three things that can cause wool shrinkage: heat, moisture, and agitation. Sometimes, it’s a combination of them - as is the case with improper washing techniques. Let’s take a closer look. 

The Nature of Wool Fibres

Every wool fibre is covered with microscopic scales. Those fibres swell when they’re exposed to moisture and heat. As they swell, those microscopic scales open up and stand on end. Agitation causes those scales to interlock and become tangled. 

Those tangles become matted as the agitation and heat continue. Tailors and fabric experts call this felting. Felting makes your sweater fabric denser, thicker, and smaller in size. There’s no going back once wool becomes felted. Your sweater is now permanently shrunk. 

Common Care Mistakes

You expose your wool to the shrinkage trifecta when you put it in a washing machine,. Your sweater is tossed about in hot water and jostled against other clothes. Even if your machine has a “Wool” or “Delicates” cycle, we recommend washing by hand.

Machine-drying your wet wool sweater is another common cause of shrinkage. The heat and tumbling wreak havoc on wool fibres. 

We frequently see the opposite problem, stretching, when somebody hangs their wet sweater to dry. Wool fibres are elastic when wet. They can also absorb a great deal of water, which makes wet sweaters heavy. Always dry a wool sweater flat rather than hanging it.

Wet wool’s propensity for stretching can be a problem. But it can also save your shrunken merino wool sweater. Read on to find out how to unshrink a merino wool sweater by using the natural elasticity of wool fibres. 

Can You Unshrink a Merino Wool Sweater?

So, can you unshrink a merino wool sweater? It depends. There are ways to stretch a moderately shrunken merino wool sweater. But unshrinking a merino wool sweater that has become felted is impossible. 

Factors to Consider

Are you dealing with shrinking or felting? Shrinking occurs when heat and moisture cause the wool fabric to tighten. It can be reversed. Nothing can be done to fix a felted sweater.

Can you see knitted stitches and individual yarn strands on your sweater? If so, you may be able to unshrink it. If the surface looks matted and fuzzy, your sweater has probably felted.

How much your sweater has shrunk should be taken into consideration, too.If your adult sweater has shrunk down to child size, you will probably never be able to stretch it back to its original size. You have a better chance of repairing the damage if your sweater has only shrunk a half size or so. 

You also need to ask yourself, what caused the shrinkage? You might have luck unshrinking a merino wool sweater that was accidentally hand-washed in overly warm water. On the other hand, a wool sweater that went through a full high heat dryer cycle is probably damaged beyond repair. 

Setting Realistic Expectations

You can realistically expect a near-full recovery if you’re dealing with mild shrinkage. Your merino wool sweater should remain soft and comfortable to wear.

You may not be able to unshrink your merino wool sweater to its original fit if the shrinkage is more pronounced. The fabric may feel a bit denser, and the sweater may fit you more snugly. 

Heavily felted sweaters will not stretch back to their original size. They will be dense, itchy, and uncomfortable. The greatest minds in the wool industry have not yet figured out how to unshrink a merino wool sweater once it becomes stiff and felted. 

But if you’re just dealing with minor shrinkage and want to give it a shot, here are some tips on unshrinking a merino wool sweater below!

How to Unshrink a Merino Wool Sweater

Here’s how to unshrink a merino wool sweater at home. This will work on any wool sweater that is capable of being stretched back into shape.

Step 1: Prepare the Soak

Fill a basin with lukewarm water. Hot water will only make matters worse. Cold water won't soften the fibres as effectively.  

Add 2 tablespoons of hair conditioner per gallon. The hair conditioner softens the wool fibres and helps detangle the fibre scales. Mix until the conditioner has thoroughly dissolved and the water feels slightly slippery.

Step 2: Submerge Gently

Gently press your shrunken merino wool sweater to the bottom of the basin. You want to make sure the solution reaches every fibre in the sweater. Let the fabric soak for at least 30 minutes.

Step 3: Use a Towel Press

Lay a large, thick towel flat on the floor or on a countertop. Lift the shower from the solution carefully. Ball it up loosely and gently squeeze it against the side of the basin. This will remove some of the excess water. Don’t twist or wring the sweater. That will further damage the fibres.

Lay the sweater flat on the towel, and smooth out any folds and wrinkles. Roll the towel and sweater up together like a sleeping bag. Start at the bottom and work your way up. Press down firmly on the roll to draw the water out of the sweater. The towel should be wet and the sweater should be uniformly damp but not dripping when you’re finished.

Step 4: Carefully Stretch

Lay the damp sweater down on a flat surface. A foam blocking mat is ideal for this, and you can find one in knitting supply stores or online. You can also lay towels down on a clean, dry section of carpeted floor or a large table. Use another sweater that fits you perfectly as the template for stretching your merino wool sweater. 

Smooth and push the fabric outward with the palms of your hands. Start with the sweater’s body. Put your hands in the middle and gently push outward toward the side seams. Push downward from the shoulders to the hem to regain length. Stretch each sleeve and pay close attention to cuffs and collars.

Compare your template sweater to your damp merino wool sweater to ensure you’re stretching it back to the proper dimensions. 

Step 5: Lay Flat to Dry

Ensure the entire sweater is lying perfectly flat and smooth. Any wrinkles or folds left now will dry into the fabric. We recommend mesh sweater racks for the best results. They let air circulate on all sides, so your sweater will dry faster and more evenly. Let the sweater air dry flat.  

Step 6 (optional): Block With Pins

This step is optional, but we recommend anchoring the edges of your sweater with T-pins for best results. Place a pin every few inches along the hem, cuffs, and sides. This stops the sweater from shrinking back into place as it dries.

If All Else Fails, Spoil Yourself With Something New at Aran Sweater Market!

Sometimes, unshrinking a merino wool sweater is impossible. If your favourite sweater has been damaged beyond repair, you can find solace by upgrading to one of our world-renowned Irish wool sweaters. 

We use merino wool in our wool sweaters for men and wool sweaters for women. Many people ask us, is merino wool itchy? Not at all! The coarse fibres of cheaper wool can cause itching. But merino wool is soft and comfortable against the skin. 

As we noted in our articles on wool vs cotton sweater and crochet vs knit sweater, wool is one of the best insulators you can buy. But it’s also breathable. You’ll stay surprisingly comfortable when you come into a warm room after a brisk walk. Our sweaters transcend seasons.

Every sweater is crafted in Ireland using traditional Aran patterns. Each comes with a certificate of authenticity, so you know you’re part of a long tradition. Protect yourself against the elements in style – buy an Aran sweater now!

 

“I have purchased multiple sweaters for myself, my husband, my son and his wife and my granddaughters. I keep coming back to Aran because they provide the most beautiful quality and their services are exceptional!” - Sandra

“This company is terrific. I have over the years probably bought 30 sweaters from Aran.com. I have absolutely no problem with them and will continue to buy their product.” - Bonnie

“Excellent customer service with my questions. Ordered as per instructed. Product arrived on time and fits perfectly!” - Jackie

Avoid Shrinking a Merino Wool Sweater in the First Place With These Tips

You never want to ask yourself, why did my merino wool sweater shrink? The best method for unshrinking a merino wool sweater is to stop shrinkage from happening in the first place. Make a note of these pointers to keep your sweater in top shape.

Wash Sparingly

Wool sweaters don’t need to be washed frequently. The natural lanolin in the wool not only keeps it supple, but it also has antibacterial properties that help fight odours. If you let your sweater air out after wearing and spot-clean any stains, you can wear a wool sweater 5-10 times or more before it needs washing.

The best way to determine if your wool sweater needs washing is to give it the smell test. If it smells musty or musky, give it a hand wash. Otherwise, you can rely on its natural protective properties. 

Use Cold Water and Wool Detergent

Hot water causes wool fibre scales to blossom out and become tangled. Lukewarm water (below 85°F or 30°C) greatly reduces this risk. Can you rest your hand comfortably in the water? If not, it’s too hot for washing wool sweaters. 

Make sure you’re using the right detergent, too, as many modern detergents contain enzymes that weaken wool and eventually lead to holes. Use a wool detergent formulated to safely wash wool garments.

Skip the Dryer

Your dryer may have a “Wool” or “Delicate” setting. You still shouldn’t use it to dry your merino wool sweater. That setting doesn’t get as hot as a standard high-heat drying cycle, but it still jostles and tumbles your sweater around, which encourages shrinking and felting. 

Follow our flat drying instructions when you need to dry your sweater. It may not be as quick as a run through the dryer, but flat drying will greatly extend your merino wool sweater’s lifespan. 

Store Properly

Clean your sweater before putting it up for the season. Moths are attracted to body oils, skin cells, and food particles left on the garment after wearing. Never hang wool sweaters, as it causes the shoulders to become stretched and misshapen. 

Heat, light, and humidity can all damage wool. Store your wool sweater in a cool, dark, dry place like a closet shelf or dresser drawer. 

Airtight plastic bins can trap moisture which causes mildew. Store your wool sweater in breathable containers like canvas storage bins or cotton garment bags. 

Wrapping Up Our Guide on Unshrinking a Merino Wool Sweater

That concludes our guide to how to unshrink a merino wool sweater. Can you unshrink a merino wool sweater? Yes, but if you follow our maintenance and storage advice, you won’t have to worry about unshrinking a merino wool sweater ever again.

And if you discover your sweater is beyond salvaging, treat yourself to a new merino wool sweater at Aran Sweater Market. Become part of a long and honorable tradition – shop today!