Why do Lab Coats Shrink?

Like any other article of clothing, lab coats can shrink in specific situations. The type of fabric, how it is laundered, and how closely the care instructions are followed all affect how much shrinkage occurs. The following sentence elaborates on lab coat shrinkage:

Since natural fibers like cotton and wool tend to shrink when exposed to heat and moisture, lab coats made of these materials may shrink. The fibers may constrict when heated during washing or drying, resulting in a reduction in the lab coat’s overall size.

It is significant to note that lab coats composed of synthetic fabrics, such as polyester, or a combination of fibers, typically exhibit greater resistance to shrinkage. However, under specific circumstances, even these materials could exhibit slight shrinkage.

It’s critical to adhere to the care recommendations provided by the manufacturer to reduce the possibility of lab coat shrinkage. These guidelines frequently advise using cool or warm water to wash the lab coat and avoiding excessive heat when drying.

Additionally, it’s best to avoid over-drying the lab coat because doing so with too much heat will cause shrinking. For more tips on choosing the right lab coats, check out this ultimate guide.

Before making a purchase, a lab coat should be properly measured to help avoid substantial shrinkage problems. By choosing a slightly larger size, you may accommodate some shrinkage without sacrificing fit.

For those who are concerned about possible shrinkage, several lab coat manufacturers also provide pre-shrunk or shrink-resistant versions, which may be worth taking into account.