How to Unshrink a Shrunk Wool Sweater

The Secret to Saving Shrunk Wool

It happens to the best of us: you pull your favorite wool sweater out of the dryer, only to find it has shrunk to a size fit for a toddler. Before you donate it or throw it away, there is good news. You can easily unshrink wool fibers by relaxing them with a common household item: hair conditioner or baby shampoo.

What You Will Need

• A sink, basin, or clean bucket
• Lukewarm water
• 1 tablespoon of hair conditioner or baby shampoo
• Two large, clean bath towels

Step 1: Prepare the Relaxing Bath

Fill your sink or basin with lukewarm water. Do not use hot water, as heat causes wool fibers to shrink and felt further. Add about one tablespoon of hair conditioner (or baby shampoo) to the water and stir it thoroughly with your hand until it is completely dissolved. The conditioner acts as a lubricant, relaxing the tightly locked wool fibers.

Step 2: Soak the Sweater

Submerge the shrunken sweater in the water. Gently massage it to ensure the conditioner penetrates deep into the fibers. Let the sweater soak for 20 to 30 minutes. This gives the conditioner enough time to relax the protein bonds in the wool.

Step 3: Remove Excess Water (Without Wringing!)

Drain the soapy water from the sink. Gently press the sweater against the bottom or sides of the sink to squeeze out excess water. Never wring or twist the sweater, as this can permanently warp or damage the delicate wool fibers. Once squeezed, lay the sweater flat on a dry bath towel.

Step 4: Roll and Press

Roll the towel up with the sweater inside, creating a sleeping-bag-like roll. Gently press down on the rolled towel. This absorbs the remaining excess moisture without putting stress on the wool. Unroll the towel and place the sweater on a second, dry towel.

Step 5: Stretch and Shape

While the sweater is still damp, gently stretch it back to its original shape and size. Pull evenly from the sides, sleeves, and hem. Work in small increments, being careful not to tug too hard on any single spot. Once you have reached the desired size, lay the sweater flat on a dry towel to air dry completely. Avoid direct heat or sunlight during the drying process.