What to do about a loose drawstring

Short answer: A drawstring that has vanished into its channel can be pulled back with a safety pin. If it has lost its end tip, you can secure the end with a knot or a little tape. Both take a few minutes and need no sewing machine.

The safety pin is the tool

Fasten a safety pin to the end of the drawstring, close it and push it into the channel with your fingers. Gather the fabric over the pin, hold it from outside and ease the fabric back so the pin works forward. It works in any waistband or channel, including bamboo socks for men and women.

Hold on to the other end

The most common mistake is pulling the whole string into the channel. Put a second safety pin on the end that hangs out, or hold it against the table with one hand. That way it stays put while you guide the pin round. With a long string you can also tie it loosely round a pencil.

Stop it disappearing again

Tie a knot at each end that is larger than the channel opening. Then the string cannot slip in, even when fully loosened. A double knot holds best on smooth strings. That keeps the drawstring in bamboo sweatpants for men where it belongs, through the wash and plenty of wear.

One stitch at the opening

To be completely sure, sew the string in place at the centre back with a single stitch through the channel. It can still be tightened and loosened from both sides but never pulled out. Use thread matching the fabric so the stitch does not show. A small step that saves you time later.

The end can be fixed

A fraying string can be lightly melted at the tip with a lighter if it is synthetic, or wrapped tightly with a bit of clear tape. That lasts for months and makes it much easier to thread through the eyelets again. It also works on long sleeved styles with a drawstring, such as a long sleeve bamboo t-shirt.

When the string needs replacing

If the string is worn, broken or far too short, replace it. Any ribbon, cord or elastic of the same width will do. Measure the old string or the channel and add a little at each end so you can tie a bow. Pin the new string to the old one and pull them through together.

Wash with the string tied

Many drawstrings disappear in the washing machine. As the load spins, the water tugs at the loose ends and the string slowly slides into the channel. Tie a loose bow before washing, or turn the garment inside out. It takes seconds and means you rarely need the safety pin again.

Small repairs keep clothes in use

A loose drawstring is no reason to put a garment aside. It is one of the easiest repairs there is, and it only takes things you already have at home. Once you have done it, it takes under ten minutes. Keep a safety pin in a drawer and you are ready next time.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take

Five to ten minutes with a safety pin, a little longer if the channel is long or the fabric is thick and narrow.

Can you replace a drawstring

Yes, any ribbon of the same width will do, as long as it is long enough to tie a bow at both ends.

How do you stop it disappearing

Knots at the ends, or a single stitch through the string at the opening, so it cannot slide all the way into the channel.