About 71% of European people love denim, the number is 70% in the US. Almost three out of four people have denim shirts or jeans and we love to wear them.
All that said, you must have had the urgency to shrink denim at least once or twice. You have been there, right?
I mean, it’s not an easy task to find the right-fitting jeans without putting some effort into them. Fortunately, you are just in the right place. Today, we will learn how to shrink denim in easy 3 ways.
Additionally, we will also learn how shrinking our regular denim can help us and why may need it from time to time.
Key Highlights
- Denim can shrink more in length than in width during the shrinking process. You may alter the overall fit of the garment.
- Most modern denim is sanforized. It is a pre-shrinking process that reduces the chance of shrinkage during your first wash.
- However, some non-sanforized or “shrink-to-fit” denim is intentionally left untreated for people with an eye for custom fit.
- Denim with added elastane (spandex) or polyester tends to shrink less compared to 100% cotton denim.
- Heavier denim fabrics, such as 14-16 ounces or more per square yard, are less likely to shrink than lighter-weight denim.
- Raw or untreated denim is known to shrink less during the initial wash, but it can continue to shrink gradually over multiple washes as the fabric settles.
- Vintage denim, particularly older pieces, may have undergone multiple washes already. However, it can make them less prone to further shrinkage than the new ones.
Why Do I Need to Shrink Denim?
Denim is our favorite sturdy cotton fabric. It consists of tightly woven cotton fibers, with a small percentage of elastane (spandex) or polyester for added stretch.
You may need to shrink denim to make it fit better or to restore its original shape. Additionally, denim can stretch out over time with wear.
Perhaps, it’s too big when you first get it. By shrinking your usual denim, you may have a more comfortable fit.
Additionally, you may want to:
Get A Comfortable Fit
Denim garments, especially jeans, are often worn for their snug fit.
Over time, denim can stretch out, and become looser and less comfortable. You may need to shrink the denim to restore the original fit and have a more comfortable and form-fitting.
Personalize A Bit
You may intentionally need to shrink your jeans to have a custom fit. It is especially common with non-sanforized or “shrink-to-fit” denim, where users deliberately shrink the jeans to their unique body shape.
Restore Shape
Sometimes, we buy second-hand or vintage denim. They are most likely to stretch out over time. You would genuinely need to shrink the vintage denim to get back to its original shape and structure.
Promote Unique Style
Sometimes, the style or trend in denim leans toward a tighter or more fitted look.
You can adapt your denim garments to the current fashion or simply to match your personal style preference.
Now what comes to mind is, how to shrink denim. Continue reading to find out!
How to Shrink Denim?
Different methods are available to shrink denim. We will discuss the most common and easy for beginners (if that’s your first time!)
1) The Wash and Dry Method
This is perhaps the most common method to shrink denim. Most people apply the technique. It starts here,
You will need to turn your denim garment inside out. It will protect the color and finish.
The care label should include a temperature guide for your denim garment. It should be around 40C-60C (100F-140F). Follow it strictly. However, it’s important to note that, based on specific denim, the care instructions would vary.
Now, run the denim through a washing machine cycle. After washing, place the denim in a hot dryer on the highest heat setting.
Don’t forget to check the garment continuously during the drying process to prevent over-shrinking. Remove it from the dryer when you have your desired size than before.
That should do! However, you may not be successful the first time! If the garment still needs additional shrinking, consider repeating the process.
2) Boiling & Steam Method
Another popular method you should consider is the boiling and steam method. You will first have to,
Fill a large pot or container with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Submerge the denim item in the boiling water for 10-30 minutes. You may need to increase the time based on the amount of shrinkage you want.
Use tongs to agitate the fabric while it’s in the boiling water. Carefully remove the denim and place it in a washing machine for a cold rinse cycle. Lastly, transfer the garment to the dryer and use the hottest setting to complete the shrinking process.
Another closely related method to boiling is the steam method. It’s like the way we shrunk Tencel in our previous article. You can follow the steps here.
3) Spritz and Dry Method
Another quick and fast method. If you lack time and want a quick solution, the spritz and dry method is for you.
First, fill a spray bottle with hot water. Spritz the denim garment thoroughly, and especially focus on the areas you want to shrink.
Now, place the damp denim in a dryer and use the hottest setting. Observe the process and remove your denim garment when it reaches the desirable size.
Last Words
With time, our body changes and we may need to shrink our favorite denim garments to fit our right size.
We have mentioned the three best easy solutions to shrink the denim without minimum damage. If you are trying for the first time, it may take one or two efforts to be successful.
But fear not! We are here to guide you along the way. Stay in tune with us and get useful updates on denim and any other fabric.
Also, don’t forget to share our article with your friends and help us grow!
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