Which fabrics shrink and which fabrics do not shrink?

The short answer is that garments made of Cotton, Wool, Linen etc will generally shrink. And that garments made of Polyester will generally not shrink or shrink very little. Garments made of Cellulose based yarns like Rayon or Viscose will also shrink - more than polyester but less than Cotton or wool. read more

Fabrics made from natural fibers, such as cotton, shrink. Fabrics made from synthetic fibers, such as polyester, normally do not shrink; or, if they shrink at all, they shrink very little. read more

Best Answer: Natural fibers will shrink. (cottons, wools) Synthetics don't (polyester, acetate) If you have a 50/50 mix then you should be able to wash as directed on the label. *Also, fabric softeners won't work on synthetic fabrics. read more