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Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2025-06-07 Origin: Site
Denim is a timeless fabric that has evolved from a workwear material to a staple in every wardrobe. Among the different types of denim, selvedge denim is often considered the gold standard for quality. However, one common question that arises when buying selvedge denim is whether it shrinks, and if so, how to manage it. In this article, we’ll dive into the shrinkage process of selvedge denim, how to care for it to avoid unwanted shrinkage, and how to get the perfect fit after your jeans have shrunk.
Before discussing shrinkage, it’s important to understand what makes selvedge denim different from regular denim. Selvedge denim is made using a traditional weaving method on older shuttle looms, which creates a clean, finished edge on the fabric. This edge, known as the "selvedge," is what gives the denim its signature look and durability. Additionally, selvedge denim is often made from raw, untreated cotton, which means it hasn't gone through a pre-shrinking process like sanforized denim.
Shrinkage occurs when the cotton fibers in the denim fabric react to moisture and heat. Raw selvedge denim (unsanforized) is particularly prone to shrinkage, typically shrinking up to 10% in both length and width after the first wash or soak. This shrinkage is a natural process that helps the fabric mold to your body, creating a custom fit over time. On the other hand, sanforized denim has been pre-shrunk, which means it undergoes a process that minimizes the amount of shrinkage after purchase.
The amount of shrinkage depends on several factors, including the type of denim, its weight, and how you care for it.
| Denim Type | Shrinkage After First Wash |
|---|---|
| Selvedge Raw Denim | 8-10% |
| Sanforized Denim | 1-3% |
| Pre-washed Denim | Minimal or no shrinkage |
Unsanforized denim, including most selvedge denim, can shrink up to 10% in both length and width. The first wash or soak is when this shrinkage occurs. This is particularly important for anyone purchasing raw denim, as the fit can change after the first wash.
Sanforized denim is pre-shrunk to ensure minimal shrinkage. Typically, sanforized denim will only shrink about 1-3% after the first wash, which is negligible in most cases.
The first wash or soak is crucial when it comes to managing shrinkage in selvedge denim. Here are a few steps to help you prevent unwanted shrinkage:
Wear Before Washing: The general recommendation is to wear your selvedge denim for at least a few weeks before the first wash. This allows the fabric to mold to your body naturally.
Avoid Hot Water: Hot water accelerates shrinkage. Wash your selvedge denim in cold water to minimize shrinkage.
Hand Soaking: Soaking the denim instead of using a washing machine can help control shrinkage more evenly. This method is gentler and ensures the denim doesn't shrink too drastically.
When it’s time to wash your selvedge denim, consider the following methods:
Soak your denim in cold water for about 30 minutes to 1 hour. This allows the fibers to relax and shrink gently without the use of detergent.
After soaking, gently squeeze out excess water. Avoid wringing or twisting the fabric to prevent damage.
If you choose to machine wash, opt for the cold water cycle and gentle settings.
Wash your denim with similar colors to prevent bleeding and fading.
Air Drying: The best way to dry your denim is by air drying. Hang it up to dry naturally, ensuring it retains its shape. Avoid using a dryer, as the heat can cause further shrinkage.
Shaping Denim: While air drying, stretch your denim back to its original shape. Gently tug on the fabric to ensure it dries in the correct size.
After your selvedge denim has shrunk, you’ll want to ensure it fits well. Here's how to get the perfect fit:
Size Up: Because selvedge denim shrinks, it’s often recommended to size up when purchasing raw denim. If you typically wear a 32” waist, consider buying a 33” to account for shrinkage.
Pre-wash Test: Before buying raw selvedge denim, check the shrinkage percentage provided by the manufacturer to estimate how much the jeans will shrink after the first wash.
After the first wash, you may notice some areas of your selvedge denim are tighter than others. To manage this, wear the jeans while they are slightly damp to stretch them to fit your body comfortably.
You can also use stretching techniques, like pulling the waistband or leg areas gently to achieve a better fit.
The weight of the denim plays a significant role in how much it shrinks. Lighter weight denim (e.g., 10oz) may shrink less compared to heavier, thicker denim (e.g., 14oz).
Sanforized denim undergoes a pre-shrinking process, so it will shrink less than unsanforized denim.
Raw denim is untreated and will shrink more after the first wash.
Stretching: If your denim shrinks more than expected, try wearing it while damp or using a gentle stretching technique to bring it back to a more comfortable size.
Re-soak: Soaking the denim in warm water may help it relax and regain some of its original size.
Wash less frequently: Over-washing selvedge denim can cause it to shrink further. Wash only when necessary to maintain the shape.
Cold water wash and air dry: These methods will help minimize shrinkage in future washes.
A: Yes, selvedge denim can shrink by up to 10% after the first wash or soak, especially if it's raw denim.
A: Wash in cold water and air dry to minimize shrinkage. Avoid using hot water or a dryer.
A: Expect up to 10% shrinkage in both length and width, especially with raw selvedge denim.
A: Yes, you can stretch selvedge denim by wearing it damp or using gentle stretching techniques.
A: Sanforized denim has been pre-shrunk, while unsanforized denim will shrink up to 10% after the first wash or soak.
In conclusion, selvedge denim does shrink, especially raw denim, which can shrink up to 10% after the first wash or soak. The best way to manage shrinkage is by wearing the denim before washing, using a gentle soak or cold wash, and air drying to preserve its shape. By following these tips and sizing appropriately, you can ensure that your selvedge denim fits well, lasts longer, and becomes a comfortable, personalized part of your wardrobe.
