A beanie that is too small can look like a swimmer's cap while a beanie that is too big can look childish. Ideally, you want a beanie to fit comfortably around your head and ears for maximum warmth and protection in cold weather. If you find a beanie that you really love, but it doesn't quite fit exactly how you want it to, there are ways to shrink or expand it. Most fabrics, such as cotton and wool, will shrink or expand without much trouble.
Things You'll Need
Washing machine
Mild detergent
Dryer
Large circular object
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Shrinking a Beanie
Step 1
Place the beanie in the washing machine with mild detergent.
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Step 2
Run a short cycle with hot water.
Step 3
Remove the beanie from the washer when the cycle is complete.
Step 4
Place the beanie in the dryer on a medium to high setting for 20 to 30 minutes until the beanie is completely dry. The hot water and dryer combination shrinks many fabrics, so the beanie should now fit snugly on your head.
Stretching a Beanie
Step 1
Find a large circular or spherical object that is similar in size to your head. A cantaloupe, watermelon or a large ball generally work well.
Step 2
Stretch the beanie over the object. Pull all sides of the beanie so that is completely around the object.
Step 3
Leave the beanie around the object overnight or for about 12 hours. When you pull the beanie off of the object it should be sufficiently stretched to fit around your head.
Tip
Wash the beanie apart from other clothing to prevent any color from bleeding and ruining clothes. Check the garment label before washing the beanie. Make sure that the beanie is not labeled “Dry Clean Only.”
Warning
Washing a beanie in hot water may cause some of the color to bleed and fade its original look.