How much a fabric typically shrinks

Short answer: A pre-shrunk knit fabric shrinks by one to two percent in the first wash. If the fabric is not pre-shrunk, the figure can be five percent or more. Heat in washing and drying can add to it, so how you wash matters almost as much as the fabric.

Why fabric shrinks

When yarn is knitted, the fibres are pulled and held under tension. In the first wash, water and movement let the fibres relax and return towards their natural length. That movement makes the fabric draw in a little. Most of it happens in the first wash, and after that the fabric is far more stable.

Pre-shrunk sits at one to two percent

A pre-shrunk fabric was washed or treated before the garment was sewn, so most of the shrinking has already happened. What remains is one to two percent. On a sweater of seventy centimetres that is about one and a half centimetres. Most people do not notice it, especially on close fitting pieces. See bamboo panties.

Not pre-shrunk can be five percent

If the fabric is not pre-shrunk, shrinkage can be five percent or more. Five percent on the same sweater is three and a half centimetres. On a longer garment it can equal half a size and change how trouser legs or sleeves fall. See bamboo sweatpants for women.

Heat raises the figure

Washing above sixty degrees and tumble drying can double the shrinkage. Heat makes the fibres draw in more, and the movement in the dryer adds to it. A fabric that would shrink one to two percent can shrink more when treated roughly. It is the most common reason clothes suddenly feel smaller.

Wash at forty degrees

A pre-shrunk fabric shrinks almost nothing after the first wash if you wash at forty degrees. That is warm enough for everyday dirt and gentle enough for the fibres. Always read the care label, as some pieces should be washed cooler still. That way clothes keep their measurements wash after wash.

Dry without heat

Let clothes dry hanging or lying flat. It takes a little longer than a tumble dryer, but the fabric keeps its measurements and shape. Gently pull the fabric into place while it is wet so seams and edges lie straight. This matters most for longer pieces like trousers and sweaters. See the women's range.

Read the product text

You can partly predict shrinkage. If the product text says pre-shrunk, you can expect one to two percent with correct washing. If it says nothing, it can be wise to allow a little margin, especially if the piece needs a certain length. The care label tells you how to avoid raising the figure.

Length is what you notice

Fabric shrinks in both length and width, but length is usually what you notice. A sleeve or trouser leg that is a couple of centimetres shorter shows sooner than a slightly narrower body. So check the length measurements in the size guide if you are unsure, and keep in mind the fabric can draw in after the first wash.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a pre-shrunk fabric shrink

One to two percent in the first wash, and almost nothing after that if you wash at forty degrees and dry without heat.

How much does a fabric that is not pre-shrunk shrink

Up to five percent or more. On a longer garment that can equal half a size, mostly in the length.

Can you predict shrinkage

Partly. If the product text says pre-shrunk, expect one to two percent with correct washing, while hot washes and tumble drying can raise it.