What To Know
- We’ll cover the different types of materials used in basketball shorts, how to wash and dry them properly, and what to do if your basketball shorts do shrink.
- If your basketball shorts do shrink, there are a few things you can do to try to stretch them back out.
- Basketball shorts shrink in the dryer because the heat causes the fibers in the fabric to contract.
Basketball shorts are a staple in any athlete’s wardrobe. They’re comfortable, breathable, and allow for a full range of motion. But what happens when you put them in the dryer? Do basketball shorts shrink in the dryer?
The answer is: it depends. The material of your basketball shorts will determine whether or not they shrink in the dryer. Natural fibers like cotton and wool are more likely to shrink than synthetic fibers like polyester and nylon.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about basketball shorts and shrinkage. We’ll cover the different types of materials used in basketball shorts, how to wash and dry them properly, and what to do if your basketball shorts do shrink.
Types of Materials Used in Basketball Shorts
Basketball shorts are typically made from one of three types of materials:
- Cotton: Cotton is a natural fiber that is soft, breathable, and comfortable to wear. However, cotton is also prone to shrinkage, especially when it is washed and dried in high heat.
- Polyester: Polyester is a synthetic fiber that is strong, durable, and wrinkle-resistant. Polyester is less likely to shrink than cotton, but it can still shrink if it is exposed to high heat.
- Nylon: Nylon is a synthetic fiber that is lightweight, quick-drying, and abrasion-resistant. Nylon is the least likely of the three materials to shrink, even when it is exposed to high heat.
How to Wash and Dry Basketball Shorts Properly
To prevent your basketball shorts from shrinking, it is important to wash and dry them properly. Here are some tips:
- Wash your basketball shorts in cold water. Hot water can cause the fibers in the fabric to shrink.
- Use a mild detergent. Harsh detergents can also cause the fibers in the fabric to shrink.
- Wash your basketball shorts on a gentle cycle. A gentle cycle will help to prevent the fabric from being damaged.
- Do not bleach your basketball shorts. Bleach can weaken the fibers in the fabric and make them more likely to shrink.
- Tumble dry your basketball shorts on low heat. If you must tumble dry your basketball shorts, use the lowest heat setting possible.
- Remove your basketball shorts from the dryer promptly. Do not leave your basketball shorts in the dryer for too long, as this can cause them to shrink.
What to Do If Your Basketball Shorts Shrink
If your basketball shorts do shrink, there are a few things you can do to try to stretch them back out:
- Soak your basketball shorts in warm water. This will help to relax the fibers in the fabric.
- Add a fabric softener to the water. Fabric softener will help to soften the fibers and make them more pliable.
- Gently stretch your basketball shorts. Once the shorts are soaked, gently stretch them in all directions.
- Lay your basketball shorts flat to dry. Do not hang your basketball shorts to dry, as this can cause them to stretch out of shape.
How to Prevent Basketball Shorts From Shrinking
The best way to prevent your basketball shorts from shrinking is to follow the care instructions on the label. Here are some additional tips:
- Wash your basketball shorts less frequently. The more you wash your basketball shorts, the more likely they are to shrink.
- Turn your basketball shorts inside out before washing. This will help to protect the fabric from damage.
- Use a mesh laundry bag. A mesh laundry bag will help to protect your basketball shorts from being damaged by other items in the wash.
- Do not overload the washing machine. Overloading the washing machine can cause the shorts to be stretched out of shape.
- Dry your basketball shorts on a clothesline. This is the gentlest way to dry your basketball shorts.
Final Note
By following these tips, you can help to prevent your basketball shorts from shrinking in the dryer. If your basketball shorts do shrink, there are a few things you can do to try to stretch them back out.
Top Questions Asked
Q: Why do basketball shorts shrink in the dryer?
A: Basketball shorts shrink in the dryer because the heat causes the fibers in the fabric to contract.
Q: What types of basketball shorts are most likely to shrink?
A: Basketball shorts made from natural fibers like cotton and wool are more likely to shrink than basketball shorts made from synthetic fibers like polyester and nylon.
Q: How can I prevent my basketball shorts from shrinking in the dryer?
A: You can prevent your basketball shorts from shrinking in the dryer by washing them in cold water, using a mild detergent, washing them on a gentle cycle, and drying them on low heat.
Q: What should I do if my basketball shorts shrink in the dryer?
A: If your basketball shorts shrink in the dryer, you can try to stretch them back out by soaking them in warm water, adding fabric softener, gently stretching them, and laying them flat to dry.
Q: How can I tell if my basketball shorts are shrinking?
A: You can tell if your basketball shorts are shrinking if they feel tighter than usual, if the waistband is smaller, or if the legs are shorter.
