Even if we have to squeeze it a little, shrieking new clothes is not something that comes to our mind. We all end up with a shirt, or top, that has an extended hemline, pulled sleeves, or is just a bit too big at one point or another in our lives.

Sometimes it can be difficult to tell your tailor exactly what you want. This is where this hack comes in. But we know what your thinking! It is much easier to shrink cotton than other fabrics, such as denim, silk or polyester. We have some tricks up our sleeves, so chill! Let’s get into the details to see how we can shrink clothes in various ways.

Four Ways to Shrink Clothes at Home

1. How to shrink clothes with boiling water

1. Boil a large pot with water.
2. Turn off the heat and place the garment that you want to shrink in. To ensure that the garment is completely submerged, use a wooden spoon.
3. The garment should be left in place for approximately 5-7 minutes depending on its material.
4. Let it cool down before you pull it out.
5. You can dry it on a drying rack or in a dryer

Keep These Things in Mind:

• Cotton – Cotton can shrink easily and sometimes bleed color when compared with other fabrics. Keep them separate, especially if there are whites.
• Polyester – Shrinking polyester is difficult because it doesn’t shrink as quickly as cotton. The process is the same. This may mean that you will have to go through the process again as some of these shrink slowly.
• Denim – Denim shrinks much slower than cotton. So, roll your jeans, denim jacket, etc. Put them in the boiling water. The garment should boil for between 20 and 30 minutes. After that, turn off the heat. Allow them to cool, then wring them and hang them to dry.
• Silk – Silk, a protein fiber, shrinks when it is exposed to heat higher than usual. This means that it takes less time for it to contract. Turn off the heat immediately after placing the garment in boiling water. Allow it to cool down before drying it.

2. How to shrink clothes using the dryer and washing machine

1. You can put the garments you want to shrink in your washer.
2. Place it in the hot water setting.
3. The program should be set for the longest possible cycle.
4. Place them in the dryer.
5. You can also choose the dryer’s highest heat setting.

Keep These Things in Mind:

• Silk – Silk fabrics can shrink and lose their shine when they are exposed to high heat. Always use a mesh fabric and wash them at a moderate heat setting. They will shrink quickly so dry them with delicate heat settings. Avoid bleach-based or chlorine-based detergents when washing silk garments as they can remove the sheen.
• Denim – Denim is able to withstand high heat so it’s a good idea to use the highest setting. It is even better if your washer comes with a denim setting. It may take a few tries to get visible results.
• Polyester – Polyester garments can also be set at the highest temperatures. However, be sure to double check the fabric quality first as high heat can cause them to look worn out quickly.
• Cotton – If you’re trying to shrink a delicate piece, start with a smaller setting and then go back to the original setting if necessary.

3. How to shrink clothes without a dryer

1. You can put the garments you want to shrink in your washer.
2. Place it in the hot water setting.
3. The program should be set for the longest possible cycle.
4. You can take them out and wring them before hanging them up to dry. As long as they are washed at high temperatures, you don’t need to dry them.

Keep These Things in Mind:

Cotton – Do not put colored cotton clothes in direct sun. Instead, hang them where there is enough heat and sunlight. This won’t be an issue with whites.

Polyester – Polyester is easy to maintain and wash. You can simply let it dry on a clothes line, and that’s all you need. You can repeat the process if necessary.

Denim – Because you won’t be using a dryer, heat the washer to the highest setting.

Silk – Avoid drying silk garments in the dryer. Take it out of your washer. Don’t squeeze it. Let the water drain naturally. Hang it up on a hanger, and let it air dry.

4. How to shrink clothes with a hair dryer

1. You can put the garments you want to shrink in your washer.
2. Place it in the hot water setting.
3. The program should be set for the longest possible cycle.
4. To remove excess water, take them out and wring them.
5. Sometimes you may find yourself in a time crunch, or the weather is not favorable. We have a solution.
6. Turn on your hair dryer to the highest heat setting. Place the garment flat on a surface or ironing board.
7. Concentrate on one area at a time, and allow it to dry.
8. Although it takes a little longer than other methods, this method is more efficient due to the hot air from a dryer.

Keep These Things in Mind:

• Cotton – With a hair dryer, cotton, linen and other delicate fabrics are the easiest to shrink.
• Polyester – Avoid static by not putting the dryer too close.
• Denim – Denim is a more difficult garment than regular clothes, but it’s still your great option.
• Silk – Silk shrinks quicker with heat so it is best to air dry silk garments.

You have just found a weekend project that is fun, quick, and effective. It’s satisfying to accomplish something so simple and productive. Plus, you will have a well-fitted piece of clothing.