Yes polyester can shrink in the dryer.
However it’s important to note that polyester is more resistant to shrinking than other fabrics such as cotton.
This is because polyester is a synthetic fabric that is generally more heat-resistant than natural fabrics.
Is Polyester Resistant to Shrinking?
Polyester is known for being a durable fabric that resists wrinkling and shrinking.
It’s also resistant to fading and will retain its color for a long time.
So it’s no surprise that polyester is often used for items like outdoor furniture and sportswear.
The nature of polyester makes it particularly unlikely to shrink in the dryer.
That being said it can still happen if certain conditions are met.
What Can Cause Polyester to Shrink?
Polyester is made of polyethylene terephthalate which is a type of plastic.
When exposed to high temperatures polyester can become brittle and shrink.
So if your polyester clothing is exposed to high temperatures in the dryer it may shrink.
If your polyester garments are exposed to a high temperature dryer cycle they may shrink.
So it’s important to read the care label on your garments and select a low-temperature setting.
When in doubt you can also opt for a lower heat setting and a longer cycle.
Can I Use Heat to Reshape Polyester?
If you’re looking to reshape a polyester garment you can use a low-temperature setting on the dryer.
This will help the fabric reshape itself without shrinking.
However you should be careful not to overdo it as too much heat can still cause the fabric to shrink.
Factors That Determine Whether Polyester Shrinks in the Dryer
When it comes to polyester and the dryer there are a few factors that can play a role in whether or not your polyester fabric shrinks.
First the type of polyester fabric you’re using is important.
Different types of polyester (e.
g.
polyester blends microfiber polyester etc.
) have different heat tolerances and will respond differently to the heat of the dryer.
Second the temperature of the dryer is a major factor.
Most polyester fabrics can withstand temperatures up to 140°F before they start to shrink.
If you’re drying polyester at a higher temperature then it’s more likely to shrink.
Tips to Prevent Polyester from Shrinking in the Dryer
If you’re worried about your polyester fabric shrinking in the dryer there are a few steps you can take to prevent it.
First turn the heat down.
Many dryers have settings that allow you to adjust the temperature so aim for a lower setting when drying polyester.
Second pay attention to the care instructions.
If your polyester fabric has care instructions then make sure to follow them.
If the care instructions say to air-dry the fabric then it’s best to follow that recommendation.
Finally consider hand-washing.
If you’re worried about your polyester fabric shrinking then consider hand-washing instead of throwing it in the dryer.
This will help to minimize the risk of shrinkage.
Conclusion
So does polyester shrink in the dryer? Yes but it is more resistant to shrinking than other fabrics.
To prevent shrinkage make sure to turn the heat down on your dryer follow the care instructions and consider hand-washing instead.
With the right precautions you can help to ensure that your polyester fabric stays looking great.
