Shrinking Clothing

Any suggestions on the best way to shrink a pair of capri pants that are approximately one size too large. They are 45% cotton/55% linen. Will they shrink more evenly washed in hot water and then dried in dryer or if washed in cold water and dried on high heat in the dryer? Does anyone have experience with this?

Does hot water or high heat cause more shrinkage? Since they are capris, I am not concerned about the possible change in length. I cannot alter them and they are not worth taking to someone who does alterations but I do like them. Thanks for any comments or suggestions.

Summergirl from VA

Answers:

Shrinking Clothing

If the fabric was pre-shrunk before being made into the garment, as most better clothing is, there will be little or no shrinkage. Being in the laundry and dry-cleaning business for more than 30 years, I am talking from experience. Shrinkage is caused by three factors - moisture - heat - and friction. Your best chance at shrinking your capris would be to wash in hot water (moisture and heat) and dry in a HOT dryer (heat and friction). If they don't shrink, try wearing a belt with them. (06/23/2006)

By Paulette

Shrinking Clothing

The problem is, that even if they were not preshrunk, you have no way of knowing if they will shrink evenly. Make sure that you don't mind them being ruined before you start to experiment. I'd try just the hot water first, then if that's not enough try the hot water and hot dryer. If that's not enough, try boiling them for a while in a large pot, and so on.
Good luck. (06/27/2006)

By susan