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Downsizing to Fit: How to Shrink a Hoodie
By ShirtSpace | Aug 24, 2023 | Updated Apr 05, 2024Hoodies are the epitome of comfort and style, providing warmth and coziness during chilly seasons. However, we've all been there – you've found the perfect wholesale hoodie, but it's just a tad too big. Don't worry. There's a solution: shrinking your hoodie to achieve that perfect fit. In this guide, we'll walk you through the shrinking hoodie process step by step, ensuring you end up with a snug and comfortable garment that's ready to wear. Whether you're dealing with men's or women's hooded sweatshirts, we've got you covered.
Hero Image Credit: Dean Drobot
Know Your Hoodie: Understanding Different Fabric Types
Before you embark on the journey of shrinking your hoodie, it's important to understand the fabric it's made of. Different fabrics react differently to heat and moisture, which are the key elements in the shrinking process. Most hoodies are made from materials like cotton, polyester, or a blend of both. Cotton tends to shrink more readily than synthetic fibers like polyester. Keep this in mind as you prepare to resize your hoodie.
Image Credit: Josef Holz
Preparing Your Hoodie for a Size Down
Before you dive into the shrinking process, it's crucial to prepare your hoodie properly. Turn it inside out to protect any graphics or designs from potential damage. Additionally, inspect your hoodie for any stains or spots that might become more prominent after shrinking. It's best to address these issues beforehand to avoid any regrets later.
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Can You Shrink a Hoodie That's Too Big?
The good news is, yes, you can shrink a hoodie that's too big. However, it's important to note that shrinking a hoodie can't dramatically change its size. Usually 1–2 sizes at most. You will have the best luck with sweatshirts with a high cotton count, and as you add more synthetic materials, the shrinkage success will become less and less. Pre-shrunk garments have already been laundered to help reduce shrinkage, so you will likely not be able to shrink them as much as a garment that was not pre-shrunk. If the hoodie is significantly oversized, it's better to consider exchanging it for a smaller size. Shrinking is best suited for slight adjustments.
Shrinking Your Hoodie
One common method to shrink a hoodie is through the washing machine. This is also the easiest method when learning how to shrink a hoodie to the desired size. To make a hoodie shrink, start by setting your washing machine to the hottest water temperature and the longest wash cycle. This will create the ideal conditions for the fibers to tighten and reduce in size. After washing, transfer your hoodie to the dryer. Set your dryer to the highest heat setting since heat will cause shrinking.
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Do Hoodies Shrink in the Wash?
When hot water is used, you can absolutely make a hoodie shrink. Understanding how to shrink a hoodie involves utilizing the heat and moisture provided by a washing machine to encourage the fibers to contract and tighten. By selecting the hottest water temperature and a longer wash cycle, you create the ideal conditions for the shrinking process. After the wash, transferring the hoodie to the dryer further aids in achieving the desired fit. This method proves effective for those looking to achieve a subtle size reduction while maintaining the comfort and coziness that hoodies are cherished for. For instances where you hope for drastic shrinkage, you can submerge the garment in boiling water or wash it in the dishwasher.
How Do You Shrink a Hoodie Without a Dryer?
If you prefer not to use a machine dryer or if your hoodie isn't dryer-friendly, you can still achieve shrinkage. After washing your hoodie in hot water, wring out the excess moisture and lay it flat on a clean towel. Gently stretch and shape the hoodie to your desired size, focusing on areas that need adjustment. Allow it to air dry while maintaining the stretched shape.
How to Avoid Over-Shrinking Your Hoodie
You may be wondering how to shrink a hoodie without ruining it. Care must be taken to be sure that you do not damage the hoodie or make it way too small. While the goal is to achieve the perfect fit, it's essential to avoid over-shrinking your hoodie. Pay close attention to the shrinking process, and periodically check its size to prevent going too far. It's easier to gradually shrink your hoodie a little more than to reverse excessive shrinking.
Aftercare 101: Looking After Your Newly Sized-Down Hoodie
Congratulations, your hoodie is now the ideal size! To ensure its longevity, follow these aftercare steps:
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Wash with Care: When it's time to clean your hoodie, opt for cold water and gentle cycles to prevent further shrinkage.
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Air Dry: Avoid using high heat during drying. Instead, air-dry your hoodie to maintain its new size and shape.
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Fold, Don't Hang: Folding your hoodie is better than hanging it, as the weight of the fabric can cause stretching over time.
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Avoid Frequent Shrinking: Excessive shrinking can weaken the fabric over time. Try to avoid shrinking your hoodie repeatedly.
Image credit: Curtis Adams from Pexels
Now Shrink Away!
With the right knowledge and care, you can successfully make a hoodie shrink down to achieve that perfect fit. Understanding your hoodie's fabric, preparing it properly, and choosing the right method for shrinking will ensure you have a snug and stylish garment that you'll love to wear. Whether it's men's or women's hooded sweatshirts, follow these steps to make your hoodie fit just perfectly!
Now, where can you stock up on hoodies? ShirtSpace is a one-stop shop for buying hoodies at the best prices. You can find a wide variety of colors and styles on our site. As we offer fast delivery, you will not have to wait for long to get your order on time.
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