Many UK homeowners love the look and protection that chair covers bring to their dining rooms. However, a common frustration arises when freshly washed covers come out of the dryer a little tighter—or worse, no longer fit at all. Shrinkage can affect even the highest quality dining chair covers if not properly cared for.
Why Do Chair Covers Shrink?
Most chair covers for dining chairs are made of stretchable fabrics like spandex, polyester, or velvet blends. These materials provide flexibility and a snug fit but can contract when exposed to:
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High dryer heat
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Improper washing cycles
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Lack of air drying
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Repeated hot water laundering
Even top-quality covered dining room chairs can suffer shrinkage if care instructions are not followed.
Step-by-Step Fix for Shrunk Chair Covers
If your dining room chair covers have shrunk, don’t toss them just yet. Try the following:
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Soak in lukewarm water with hair conditioner
Fill a basin with lukewarm water and add 2 tablespoons of hair conditioner. Soak the cover for 10–15 minutes to relax the fibers. -
Gently stretch back into shape
Remove excess water and lay the cover on a towel. Slowly stretch it back to its original dimensions while damp. -
Air dry naturally
Never tumble dry. Lay flat or hang until fully dry. Avoid direct sunlight for delicate fabrics like velvet. -
Try fitting it back on the chair while damp
For some elastic materials, placing the cover on the chair while still slightly moist can help reshape it perfectly.
How to Prevent Shrinkage Next Time
When buying chair covers in the UK, always check the care label. General tips include:
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Cold wash only
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Use gentle or delicate cycles
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Avoid tumble drying
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Air dry flat for best results
High-quality dining chair covers from SofaCoverUK are often made from durable, pre-shrunk fabrics to reduce this risk.
Bonus: Invest in Easy-Care Covers
Some of the latest styles in the UK offer wrinkle-resistant, anti-shrink fabrics. These options are ideal for busy households or hospitality settings where chair covers for dining chairs are washed frequently.
Explore our full collection of stylish and durable chair covers and dining chair covers to find materials that match both your aesthetic and maintenance needs.
Final Thoughts
Shrinkage doesn't have to mean the end for your favourite chair covers. With proper care—and a little stretching—you can often restore them. And going forward, the key is prevention. Always opt for easy-care, UK-tested dining room chair covers and follow cleaning instructions closely.
Want more fabric care tips? Stay tuned to our blog for practical home styling and maintenance advice from the experts at SofaCoverUK.
