Don’t Shrink Your Favorite Jeans! A Guide to Dryer Temperatures
Japanese Dryers are HOT
Japanese coin laundry dryers are powerful gas-powered machines. They get much hotter than standard electric home dryers.
While this is great for killing germs, it is dangerous for your cotton jeans or favorite t-shirt. They can shrink by one or two sizes if you are not careful.
How to Control the Heat
Check the control panel. Many dryers have a temperature selection button:
- 高温 (High): Approx 70-80°C. Only for towels and heavy bedding.
- 中温 (Medium): Approx 60°C. Standard for most regular clothes.
- 低温 (Low): Approx 50°C. Best for delicate items or clothes you are afraid might shrink.
The “Damp-Dry” Technique
To be safe, take your jeans out while they are still slightly damp (after about 20 minutes) and let them air-dry the rest of the way in your hotel room. This prevents the fiber damage that happens when bone-dry clothes continue to tumble in heat.
