Introduction
Shrinking sweatpants to fit better can be a simple process if you follow the right steps. Over time, sweatpants can stretch out and lose their shape, and sometimes you might purchase a pair that’s just a little too big. With the following step-by-step guide, you can attempt to shrink your sweatpants to a more comfortable and flattering fit.
Materials Needed
- Sweatpants to shrink
- Washing machine
- Detergent (optional)
- Dryer
- Irons or steamers (optional and depending on the fabric)
Step-by-Step Guide to Shrinking Sweatpants
Step 1: Checking the Fabric Composition
Start by examining the fabric care label on your sweatpants. The fabric composition will dictate the best method to use for shrinking. Sweatpants made from cotton or wool are most likely to shrink, while synthetic fibers like polyester are more resistant to shrinking.
Step 2: Washing on a High Heat Setting
Turn your sweatpants inside out to protect the outer surface from wear. Then place them in the washing machine. Set your washing machine to the hottest water setting, as heat encourages fibers to contract. Add a small amount of detergent if you want to clean your pants at the same time. Start the wash cycle and wait for it to finish.
Warning:
Be aware that excessively high temperatures can cause colors to fade or fabrics to warp.
Step 3: Drying on High Heat
Once the wash cycle is complete, remove your sweatpants and place them in the dryer. Set the dryer to the highest heat setting as well. Higher temperatures in the dryer will further encourage cotton and wool fibers to shrink. Start the drying cycle and check on your pants periodically to avoid over-shrinking or damage.
Step 4: Repeat If Necessary
If your sweatpants haven’t shrunk enough after the first wash and dry, you can repeat the process. However, it’s essential to note that each subsequent wash and dry might have diminishing returns on the amount of shrinkage.
Step 5: Alternative Methods – Ironing or Steaming
If you are dealing with a more delicate fabric or you have areas that need spot shrinking, using an iron or a steamer is an alternate method. Lay your sweatpants on an ironing board, and use a steam iron to apply heat and steam directly to the areas you want to shrink. Keep the iron moving to prevent scorching and to ensure an even shrinkage.
Step 6: Try Them On For Size
After the shrinkage process, try on the sweatpants to ensure a proper fit. If they are now too small, wearing them while they are still warm and performing squats or lunges can help stretch them out a bit.
Additional Tips
- Always follow the care instructions on the label as a primary guide.
- Shrinkage tends to occur mostly in length rather than width.
- Not all materials will shrink; synthetics like polyester have a low shrinkage rate.
- Be aware that shrinking clothes can sometimes lead to a less than perfect fit, as it does not target specific areas.
Conclusion
Shrinking sweatpants can be quite straightforward. Keep in mind, though, that not all fabrics respond the same way to heat, and there’s a risk of damaging the fabric or getting uneven results. The key to successfully shrinking sweatpants lies in patience and careful attention to the pants’ reaction to heat. So follow these steps, and you’ll find your sweatpants fitting better in no time.