Be careful not to mix whites with colored items, as the colors may bleed. [2] X Research source
During the manufacturing process, the threads that make up fabrics are put under stress, constantly being pulled and stretched. Exposing the fabric to heat will relieve some of this stress, causing the treads to shorten. [6] X Research source
If there are any items you don’t want to run through the dryer, take them out and hang them on a clothesline to air dry.
If you’re not happy with the results, simply repeat the process until your sweatpants have shrunk to your desired size. If you don’t want your sweatpants to shrink too much, check on them periodically as they’re drying. Once they’re small enough, you can let them air dry or lower the heat setting on the dryer so they finish drying but don’t shrink any more. [11] X Expert Source Rani GorgisLaundry & Cleaning Specialist Expert Interview. 7 April 2021.
You’ll know the water has reached a rolling boil when large bubbles are rising swiftly to the surface and you can stir it without disrupting the boil. [14] X Research source
Use a wooden spoon or long metal tongs to make sure the pants are completely submerged.
To trap the heat in, consider putting a lid over the pot while your pants soak.
You may want to leave the sweatpants in the colander or sink to cool for a few minutes before you pick them up.
Avoid twisting or wringing the pants, as this may cause the fabric to stretch out again. [17] X Research source
Be careful not to wring them out or twist the fabric, as this may cause the fabric to stretch again. [20] X Research source
If there’s a part of the sweatpants you specifically want to shrink (such as the waistband), this method allows you to pay special attention to that area.
