Finding simple solutions to everyday problems can feel like striking gold, especially when it comes to clothing mishaps. A viral hack by a content creator has gained attention for its ingenious use of a hairdryer to restore bent or wrinkled breast pads to their original shape. The padding smoothens with just a few seconds of warm air, saving users the frustration of dealing with misshapen inserts.
“Just a few seconds of warm air from a hairdryer, and the padding goes back to its original shape — it’s like magic!,” the page, Top Tips by Carol, captioned the post.
This clever tip makes us wonder what other everyday tools or items could be repurposed for quick fixes in fashion and personal care, and the precautions people should take when using heat-based solutions.
Other quick and effective hacks to fix clothing or undergarments using household tools
Pooja Choudhary, founder at Lavanya The Label, tells indianexpress.com, “Quick hacks are lifesavers when it comes to fixing clothing or undergarments, offering fast, proven, and effective solutions using everyday household tools. They’re ideal for handling unexpected wardrobe malfunctions or last-minute emergencies without professional help.”
Here are a few of the simple and proven quick hacks to fix clothing and undergarments using household tools, according to Choudhary:
Fix a Stuck Zipper: Rub a bar of soap or candle wax lightly along the zipper teeth to unstick it without damaging the fabric. These lubricants are gentle and leave no residue.
Remove Deodorant Stains: Use a foam sponge or a microfibre cloth to rub away marks gently. This method is widely used and does not harm delicate fabrics.
Tighten Loose Bra Straps: Sagging straps can be permanently fixed using safety pins or sewing a few stitches. This hack can save you during last-minute emergencies.
Story continues below this ad
Restore Drawstrings: Attach a safety pin to one end of the drawstring and guide it through the casing. This method works on skirts, hoodies, pajamas, and gym shorts.
Dip the padding in cool water, reshape it manually, and let it air dry for a natural fix. (Source: Freepik)
Precautions people should take when using heat-based solutions
Choudhary stresses, “Using heat-based products like a hairdryer can be a true knight in shining armor for quick fabric fixes. However, using these products on delicate fabrics can be a tricky business. To avoid warping or scorching, always maintain a 6-8 inches gap between you and the hairdryer.”
She adds that fabrics like satin and patterns like lace are quite delicate and demand low heat. It is always recommended to test first. “Try heat on a hidden area to check for damage or discoloration. Lastly, make sure you apply heat in brief intervals. Long exposure to heat weakens the fabric,” she suggests.
Alternative methods to restore bent or wrinkled padding without using heat
If you do not have heat-based products handy or want to opt for some alternative methods to restore bent or wrinkled padding, here are the quick fixes as suggested by Choudhary:
Story continues below this ad
Steam It Naturally: Hang the item in a steamy bathroom; the moisture reshapes the padding effectively.
Hand Massage: Gently mold the padding back to shape using even, careful pressure.
Cold Water Soak: Dip the padding in cool water, reshape it manually, and let it air dry for a natural fix.
Tissue Support: Stuff the padding with tissue paper overnight to restore its shape.
