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How do you shrink swim trunks?

Published in Swimwear Care 3 mins read

To shrink swim trunks, the most effective method involves a specific washing and drying process designed to gently constrict the fabric fibers.

Shrinking Swim Trunks: A Step-by-Step Guide

Shrinking swim trunks typically leverages the controlled application of heat to the fabric. This process is most effective for materials like polyester, nylon, or blends often used in swimwear, though results can vary based on the exact fabric composition.

The following steps outline how to shrink your swim trunks using a washing machine and dryer:

  1. Initial Wash with Cold Water:

    • Begin by placing your swim trunks in the washing machine.
    • Use cold water and a mild detergent. This initial wash cycle helps to clean the garment and prepare the fibers for the shrinking process without immediately subjecting them to heat.
  2. Prepare for Dryer:

    • Once the wash cycle is complete, transfer the swim trunks to the clothes dryer.
    • To ensure even drying and prevent the trunks from balling up, add a few clean, dry towels into the dryer with them. The towels help absorb moisture and provide cushioning, promoting more uniform shrinkage.
  3. Set Dryer to Lowest Heat:

    • Crucially, set the dryer to the lowest heat setting available. High heat can damage the elastic components and synthetic fibers commonly found in swim trunks, leading to uneven shrinkage, warping, or even fabric degradation.
  4. Short Drying Cycle:

    • Run the clothes dryer for a short cycle, typically 5 to 10 minutes. The goal is controlled exposure to heat, not complete drying. This short duration allows the heat to begin contracting the fibers.
  5. Check and Repeat (If Needed):

    • After the initial short drying cycle, immediately try on the swimsuit to assess the fit.
    • If the swim trunks have not shrunk enough to your liking, you can repeat the drying process in additional short intervals (e.g., 5 minutes at a time) until the desired fit is achieved. Always check the fit after each interval to prevent over-shrinking.

Summary of Steps for Shrinking Swim Trunks

Step Action Key Detail
1. Wash Wash in washing machine Cold water, mild detergent
2. Prep Dryer Place trunks in dryer With clean, dry towels
3. Heat Setting Set dryer heat Lowest heat setting
4. Dry Cycle Run dryer Short cycle (5-10 minutes)
5. Check Fit Try on and re-dry if necessary Repeat in short intervals to avoid over-shrinking
  • Important Note: While this method is effective for shrinking many types of swim trunks, remember that some highly resilient synthetic materials may not shrink significantly, or may require multiple repetitions. Always proceed with caution to maintain the integrity of your swimwear.