If Something Goes Wrong
Problem
Snags, Holes, Tears,
Rips, or Excessive
Wear
Shrinkage
14
Possible Causes
Pins, snaps, hooks, sharp
buttons, belt buckles,
zippers, and sharp objects
left in pockets
Undiluted chlorine bleach
Small tears or holes
present before wash
Chemicals like hair bleach,
hair dye, permanent wave
solution and toilet bowl cleaners
Permanent press items
naturally fray (especially
collars and cuffs)
Some fabrics will naturally
shrink in the wash
What to Do
• Fasten snaps, hooks, buttons, and zippers.
• Remove loose items like pins, objects in
pockets and sharp buttons.
• Turn knits (which snag easily) inside out.
• Check bleach package instructions for
proper amount.
• Never add undiluted bleach to wash or
allow clothes to come in contact with
undiluted bleach.
• Repair tears and holes before washing.
• Rinse items that may have chemicals
on them before washing.
• While this is not caused by the washer,
you can slow the fraying process by
washing small permanent press loads with
a higher load/water level setting.
• Avoid washing heavy items (like towels)
with permanent press items.
• Hot water is more likely to cause shrinkage
than cold water.
• Follow directions on fabric care label.