Finding a pair of jeans that fit just right can be difficult. And when you do, it’s critical to do everything you can to keep them fitting like a glove.
Shrinkage is one of the most common issues people face when it comes to caring for their jeans. But do jeans actually shrink in the wash?
In this article, we’ll explore why and how much jeans can shrink in the wash, as well as seven tips to prevent them from shrinking.
Do Jeans Shrink in the Wash?
Although jeans made from 100% cotton denim will naturally shrink in the wash, most jeans today are pre-shrunk so they won’t significantly shrink after being washed. Still, some minimal shrinking may occur depending on how you launder them.
Why Do Jeans Shrink in the Wash?
As with most fabric made from cotton, heat and water are the culprits. When denim jeans are washed in hot water and dried on high heat, the fibers of the material contract slightly, causing them to shrink and lose their initial shape.
How Much Will Jeans Shrink in the Wash?
The amount of shrinkage varies depending on how hot the water is, how long they spend in the dryer and if any other products like fabric softeners are used. In general, jeans will typically only shrink up to 5%.
7 Tips to Prevent Your Jeans From Shrinking in the Wash
Now that you know that jeans may shrink in the wash, here are seven tips to avoid any unwanted shrinking:
1. Only wash your jeans in cold water:
Washing your denim in cold water is one of the simplest and most effective tips to prevent them from shrinking. Hot water can damage the fabric of your jeans and cause them to shrink significantly. For extremely soiled jeans, you may have to wash them in lukewarm water, but never hot.
2. Buy pre-shrunk jeans:
If you’re worried about shrinkage, look for jeans that are labeled as “pre-shrunk”. This means the manufacturer has already gone through the process of washing and drying the denim so it won’t shrink anymore in the wash.
3. Follow the care instructions on the label:
Not all jeans are made from the same fabric, and will very likely have different care instructions. It’s important to read the care label on the jeans before laundering. Most labels will specify what temperature and spin cycle to use in order to avoid shrinkage.
4. Air dry only:
Rather than drying your jeans in a machine, opt for air drying them instead. Hanging or laying them out flat can help prevent any unwanted shrinking.
5. Avoid 100% cotton denim:
If you’re particularly worried about shrinkage, consider buying jeans that are not made entirely of cotton. Denim blends like polyester-cotton are generally less prone to shrinking because synthetic fibers provide more stability for the fabric.
6. Wash your jeans in a bathtub:
Another great trick to prevent shrinkage is to handwash your jeans in a bathtub. You can fill the tub with cold water, add a mild detergent, and swish around the denim for a few minutes. Rinse thoroughly and hang dry.
7. Spot-clean your jeans instead of washing:
Spot cleaning is a great way to preserve the fabric of your jeans, as it only removes dirt and stains in specific areas. To spot-clean, use a damp cloth or brush to scrub away any dirt on the surface of your denim.
Conclusion
Shrinkage is an issue that many people face when washing their jeans. While jeans made from 100% cotton will naturally shrink when washed, most pre-shrunk jeans won’t significantly shrink in the wash.
To avoid shrinking your jeans, make sure to only wash them in cold water, use a bathtub instead of a washing machine and always follow the care instructions on the label. By taking these steps, you can keep your jeans looking great for years to come.