The Ultimate Guide to Shrinking Denim

Proudly one of the more durable materials on the market, denim is made to fit the wearer perfectly. Whether it’s specific creases or the uniquely weathered look that only comes from consistent wearing, denim is meant to mould and contour to each person’s specific body. That’s why no two denim pieces are truly alike. While a denim garment moulds to the owner, there are naturally some pieces that need a little help to get to its final shape – and some quirks you need to be aware of before you start wearing and washing your denim. In this guide, we’ll cover how to shrink jeans effectively to achieve the perfect fit.

How to Shrink Jeans

Before we discuss how to shrink jeans, we need to understand why you might want to shrink them. After all, how to shrink jeans and how to shrink denim are frequently asked questions from ‘denim heads’ around the world. Denim, while not actively a stretchy material, does gently stretch out with prolonged wear, leading to a more relaxed fit. In this instance, shrinking the denim back to your size can help you achieve the desired fit and style. In jeans, the denim usually stretches around high-stress areas, such as around your knees and waist. Being able to shrink your jeans is essentially like a ‘factory reset’ option, allowing you to return them to their original fit so they can mould around you once again. Jeans with a higher percentage of cotton will shrink more than jeans with added stretch fibres, such as elastane, spandex, or other synthetic fibres. The Lee 101 collection features styles made from 100% cotton, for a premium denim that softens as you wear it, moulding to your exact fit. Generally speaking, jeans will shrink more lengthways, rather than widthways, depending on the cotton percentage, fabric construction, and even the cut and style of the jeans. There are a few popular ways you can shrink your jeans if needed – some more comfortable than others.

Method 1: Hot water washing your jeans

One of the most common aspects of shrinking your jeans is heat. By putting your denim through a hot water wash, you can relax the cotton fibres, allowing them to shrink back to their original state and tighten up in any areas they may have become a little too loose. You can then either allow them to air dry or, to really shrink them well, put them through the tumble dryer for the additional heat.

  1. Empty your jean pockets, fasten all zips and close the buttons. This ensures your jeans will keep their shape. Turn your jeans inside out.

  2. Put your jeans in the washing machine, on the hottest temperature.

  3. After the wash cycle, move your jeans to the dryer.

  4. Ensure your jeans are fully dried before wearing.

Method 2: Boiling your jeans

If you’d rather avoid doing a whole wash on the highest temperature, or if you’d rather increase the amount of shrinkage, you could boil your jeans on the stove. This allows you to get the hottest temperature you can.

  1. Bring a large pot of water to boil.

  2. Add your jeans and (carefully) boil them for around 30 minutes.

  3. Remove from the heat, and carefully remove the boiled jeans, being careful not to directly touch them.

  4. Move your jeans to the dryer.

  5. Ensure your jeans are fully dried before wearing.

Method 3: Bathing in your jeans

This is perhaps one of the least comfortable ways to shrink your jeans – but it does work. It involves wearing your jeans while you soak in the tub before keeping them on while they dry off. While this is very uncomfortable, this method allows the jeans to shrink and mould around you, giving you a much more fitted look and feel.

  1. Fill a bathtub with hot water – while ensuring it’s still cool enough for you to sit in.

  2. Put on your stretched jeans before getting in the tub, ensuring that your jeans are fully submerged.

  3. Soak in the tub for around 30 minutes, or until you feel the jeans have shrunk and moulded to your waist and legs.

  4. Get out the tub and keep the jeans on until they’re completely dry.

Shrinking Denim FAQs

Shrinking Denim FAQs

How much can jeans shrink?

  • You can expect your jeans to shrink by approximately 3–4% on average, especially after the first wash.
  • For example, a pair of jeans with a 32” inseam could shrink by up to 1.25”.
  • The length is generally more prone to shrinking than the width.

How do I prevent my jeans from shrinking?

  • Wash your jeans in cold water and use a gentle cycle.
  • Avoid any heat when drying—no tumble dryers.
  • Air dry your jeans by:
    • Hanging them by the waistband,
    • Laying them flat, or
    • Folding them in half (longways) and hanging over a clothes hanger.
  • This helps maintain the original shape and prevent shrinking or stretching.

Can I shrink my jeans multiple times?

  • Yes, but do it cautiously to avoid damaging the fabric.
  • Repeated exposure to high heat (hot washes and tumble drying) can weaken denim fibres.
  • This can lead to fading, thinning, or even fabric breakdown over time.
  • If you need to shrink jeans again, try gentler methods like a warm soak and avoid over-drying.
  • Monitor the condition of your jeans—tailoring might be a better long-term solution.

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