How to Shrink a Black Shirt

eHow may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Learn more about our affiliate and product review process here.
Get your oversized black shirt to fit perfectly with a little shrinking.

That fitted black shirt you want to buy is sold out in your size. If you purchase the next size up, it won't have the fitted look on you. Instead of sulking, go ahead and buy that black shirt in the next size up. You can easily shrink it in the wash and retain its vivid black color with the proper care.

Advertisement

Things You'll Need

  • Vinegar

  • Water

  • Washer

  • Color-safe detergent

  • Dryer

  • Iron

Video of the Day

Step 1

Soak the black shirt in a solution of 2/3 cup vinegar to 1 gallon of water for 15 minutes. This will help keep the color from fading in the wash.

Video of the Day

Step 2

Place the black shirt in the washing machine inside out.

Step 3

Add color-safe detergent that will prevent the black color from fading.

Step 4

Set the washing machine for a hot washing cycle. The hot water will cause the fabric to contract and shrink. T-shirts that are 100 percent cotton will be the most affected and will shrink the easiest. Other types of fabric such as polyester and cotton blends will shrink less.

Advertisement

Step 5

Place the shirt in the dryer on the highest heat possible and leave in the dryer until it cools.

Step 6

Try the shirt on and see if it fits better. It if is a little too tight, try ironing it to stretch out the material a bit.

Tip

You may have to repeat the process a time or two for fabrics that do not easily shrink such as polyester, rayon and silk.

Warning

Do not wash the shirt with any other clothes unless you want to shrink those as well.

Advertisement

references & resources