Shrinking T-Shirts: A Guide To Making Them Smaller In The Wash

There are several ways to make a T-shirt smaller in the wash. The most common method is to use the washing machine and dryer. Wash the T-shirt using the hottest water setting and the longest cycle. Then, tumble dry the T-shirt on the highest heat setting and the longest cycle. Leave the T-shirt in the dryer until it cools down completely to maximise shrinkage. Repeat the process if you want the T-shirt to be even smaller.

Another method is to boil the T-shirt. First, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Then, turn off the stove and immerse the T-shirt in the boiling water for 5 to 20 minutes. The longer the T-shirt sits in the water, the more it will shrink. Use tongs or a wooden spoon to remove the T-shirt, and let it cool in the sink. Once it's cool enough to handle, wring it out and let it air-dry. Repeat the process if you want to shrink the T-shirt further.

It's important to note that different fabrics shrink at varying rates. Natural fibres like cotton, wool, silk, linen, and hemp are more prone to shrinking than synthetic fibres. Cotton fibres can shrink up to 20%, while polyester typically shrinks less than 3%.

Soak in hot water

If you're looking to shrink a shirt, soaking it in hot water is a great option. Here's a detailed guide on how to do it effectively:

First, bring a large pot of water to a boil on your stovetop. The amount of water should be enough to completely cover the shirt. Boiling water will cause the fibres of the shirt to contract and shrink. Remember, the higher the heat, the more effective the shrinkage.

Next, remove the pot from the heat source. This step is crucial as you don't want the shirt to be placed in boiling water, which can damage the fabric. Once the pot is off the heat, carefully submerge the shirt in the hot water. Use a spoon or similar utensil to ensure the shirt is entirely covered by the water. Let the shirt soak for around 30 minutes. The longer it soaks, the more it will shrink, but be cautious as you don't want to overshrink the garment.

After the allotted time, carefully remove the shirt from the hot water using tongs or a wooden spoon. Allow the shirt to cool down in the sink. Once it has cooled and is manageable, gently wring out the excess water. Then, simply let the shirt air-dry.

If you desire more shrinkage, you can repeat this process. Additionally, you can also put the shirt through a wash and dry cycle in your machine, using the hottest settings, to further enhance the shrinkage.

Remember, always check the fabric's care label before attempting any shrinkage method, as different fabrics have varying levels of shrinkability and may require specific care.

Wash on a hot cycle

If you're looking to shrink a t-shirt, you'll want to use a combination of heat and water. The hotter the water, the more the fibres of the shirt will contract and the more it will shrink.

To begin, set your washing machine to its hottest water setting. Wash the shirt on a regular cycle, but be sure to wash it alone, as hot water may cause some fabrics to bleed or fade. If it's a graphic tee, turn it inside out to protect the print.

Once the cycle is complete, transfer the shirt to the dryer and select the highest heat setting. As with the washing machine, ensure the lint chamber is clear.

When the drying cycle is complete, remove the shirt immediately to prevent wrinkles and gauge your success. If you're still not happy with the size, simply repeat the process.

Dry on high heat

Drying your t-shirt on high heat is a crucial step in shrinking it to your desired size. This method is most effective with cotton, denim, and synthetic fabrics like polyester and spandex. After washing your t-shirt in hot water, place it in the dryer on the hottest setting. The heat from the dryer will cause the fabric to shrink, although not as much as hot water tends to.

If you are aiming for a significant size reduction, dry your t-shirt on high heat after washing it in hot water. The combination of hot water and high heat from the dryer will maximise shrinkage.

It is important to note that different fabrics shrink at varying rates. For example, cotton fibres can shrink up to 20%, while polyester shrinks less than 3%. Therefore, it is always a good idea to start by reading the garment's label to identify its fabric composition.

Additionally, if you are dealing with a graphic or vintage t-shirt, it is recommended to turn it inside out before drying to protect the prints.

If you only want a slight reduction in size, you can wash your t-shirt in cool water and then dry it on the highest heat setting. This method will result in minimal shrinkage, allowing you to adjust the fit of your t-shirt gradually.

Remember, drying your t-shirt on high heat is just one part of the process. For optimal results, combine this step with washing your t-shirt in hot water and repeating the process if needed.

Tailor the seams and hems

If you want to tailor the seams and hems of your T-shirt to make it smaller, you will need a sewing machine, sewing needles, thread, scissors, pins, and an old T-shirt that fits you well.

First, cut the sleeves and side seams off the old T-shirt, keeping the shoulder seam and collar intact. Then, cut the seams of the T-shirt you want to alter, removing the sleeves and cutting down the side seams.

Next, lay the shirt out flat and place the pattern shirt on top, lining up the neck holes. Pin the pattern shirt to the larger shirt to hold it in place. Cut the shirt smaller, following the pattern, leaving an extra half-inch of fabric to create the new seam. Cut the sleeves to match the pattern, again leaving an extra half-inch.

Now, pin the sleeves to the shirt, keeping them flat. Sew the sleeves to the shirt using a serge or zig-zag stitch. Fold the shirt inside out and sew up the sides, starting at the sleeves. Use a thread that matches the colour of the shirt.

Finally, sew the bottom hem of the shirt. Fold the fabric so the outside is folded in, creating a hem that will sit inside the shirt when it is the right way round. Press the seams with an iron to finish.

Use a garment steamer

Using a garment steamer is an effective way to shrink a shirt, especially if it is made from delicate fabrics like silk, linen, or wool. This method is also useful if you only want to shrink specific areas of the garment rather than the whole thing.

To begin, make sure you are in an open space. Hang the shirt on a hanger and use the steamer on a high heat setting. Hold the steamer head about an inch or two away from the fabric.

This method is also useful for reversing the effects of shrinkage. The steam relaxes the fibres and helps the garment expand back out. It is worth noting that this method may not work on all materials, but it is often successful with rayon and cotton items.

Frequently asked questions