Yes, raw denim does shrink when washed, especially in hot water. The amount of shrinkage depends on the denim’s weave, construction, and whether it’s sanforized. Unsanforized raw denim will shrink more significantly.

Understanding Raw Denim Shrinkage: What You Need to Know

Raw denim, often called selvedge denim, is a favorite among enthusiasts for its unique fading potential and rugged character. However, a common question arises: does raw denim shrink when washed? The short answer is yes, but the degree of shrinkage is influenced by several factors. Understanding these can help you care for your raw denim jeans and achieve the desired fit.

Why Does Raw Denim Shrink?

The shrinkage in raw denim occurs primarily due to the cotton fibers re-aligning themselves when exposed to water and heat. Cotton is a natural fiber that absorbs water, causing the yarns to swell. As the denim dries, these swollen fibers contract, pulling the fabric tighter and resulting in a smaller garment. This is a natural process for untreated cotton.

Key factors influencing shrinkage:

• Sanforization: Most modern denim undergoes a process called sanforization. This pre-shrinks the fabric by tumbling it with water and tension. Sanforized denim will shrink less than unsanforized denim.
• Weave and Construction: Tighter weaves and heavier denim weights tend to shrink more than looser, lighter weaves. The way the cotton yarns are spun and woven plays a crucial role.
• Water Temperature: Hot water causes more significant shrinkage than cold water. The heat accelerates the fiber contraction process.
• Drying Method: Tumble drying on high heat will induce more shrinkage than air drying.

How Much Shrinkage Can You Expect?

The amount of shrinkage can vary widely. For unsanforized raw denim, you might see shrinkage of up to 10% in both length (inseam) and width (waist). Sanforized raw denim, while pre-shrunk, can still shrink by about 1-3%. This is why many people choose to size up when buying unsanforized jeans, anticipating the shrinkage.

For example, if a pair of unsanforized jeans has a 34-inch waist and a 32-inch inseam, after a hot wash and dry, they could potentially end up around a 31-32 inch waist and a 29-30 inch inseam. This is a significant change and is often desired by those seeking a very precise fit.

Washing Your Raw Denim: Tips for Controlled Shrinkage

Washing raw denim requires a different approach than your average pair of jeans. The goal is often to minimize shrinkage while still cleaning the garment.

Best practices for washing raw denim:

• Turn them inside out: This protects the outer surface from abrasion and helps preserve the indigo dye.
• Use cold water: Cold water significantly reduces the amount of shrinkage compared to hot water.
• Hand wash or use a gentle cycle: A gentle machine cycle is preferable to vigorous agitation.
• Use a mild detergent: Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach, which can damage the fibers and color.
• Air dry: Hang your jeans to dry naturally. Avoid using a machine dryer, especially on high heat, as this will maximize shrinkage.

If you are intentionally trying to shrink your raw denim to achieve a tighter fit, then a hot wash followed by a high-heat tumble dry is the way to go. However, proceed with caution, as you can easily over-shrink them.

Should You Wash Your Raw Denim?

This is a question that sparks debate among denim aficionados. Some purists believe raw denim should never be washed, only spot-cleaned or aired out. The idea is that washing disrupts the natural fading process and can lead to uneven wear patterns.

However, washing is often necessary for hygiene and comfort. If you choose to wash, doing so carefully will help maintain the integrity of your jeans. Washing can also help set the fit and make the denim more comfortable to wear.

When to Wash Your Raw Denim

• After initial wear: Some people wash their raw denim shortly after purchase to get the initial shrinkage out of the way.
• When they are visibly dirty: Stains or significant dirt accumulation warrant a wash.
• For hygiene reasons: If the jeans feel or smell unhygienic, it’s time for a wash.

The frequency of washing is a personal choice. Many wear their raw denim for months or even years before the first wash, allowing for unique fades to develop.

Can You Unshrink Raw Denim?

While it’s difficult to completely reverse shrinkage, you can sometimes stretch raw denim that has shrunk too much. This is best done by wearing the damp jeans and actively stretching them in the areas that feel tight.

Methods to try:

• Wear them damp: Put on your slightly damp jeans and move around, squat, and stretch. The warmth and moisture from your body can help the fibers relax.
• Gentle stretching: You can also try gently pulling on the waistband and inseam while the jeans are damp.
• Avoid re-washing: Washing again, especially in hot water, will likely cause further shrinkage.

It’s important to note that this is not a foolproof method, and significant shrinkage may be permanent. Prevention through careful washing is always the best strategy.

People Also Ask

### How long does it take for raw denim to shrink?

Raw denim shrinks almost immediately upon contact with water and heat. The full extent of shrinkage will occur during the first wash and dry cycle. Any subsequent washes will result in minimal additional shrinkage, especially if cold water and air drying are used.

### What is the best way to wash unsanforized denim?

For unsanforized denim, it’s best to wash them in cold water, either by hand or on a gentle cycle. Use a mild detergent and turn the jeans inside out. Always air dry them to prevent excessive shrinkage. If you wish to shrink them, use hot water and a hot dryer.

### Will my raw denim jeans fit differently after washing?

Yes, your raw denim jeans will almost certainly fit differently after washing. They will likely be tighter in the waist and potentially shorter in the inseam, especially if they are unsanforized and washed in hot water. This change in fit is often a desired outcome for achieving a perfect silhouette.

### Can I machine dry raw denim?

You can machine dry raw denim, but it will cause significant shrinkage. If you want to shrink your jeans, a hot tumble dry is effective. However, if you want to preserve the fit and prevent shrinkage, it is highly recommended to air dry your raw denim instead.

Conclusion: Embrace the Shrinkage (or Control It)

So, to answer the question, does raw denim shrink when washed? Absolutely. This characteristic is part of what makes raw denim unique. Whether you embrace the shrinkage for a custom fit or carefully manage it with specific washing techniques, understanding the