Are old jeans just not fitting the same way anymore? We’ve all been there. After too many cycles through the wash, jeans can shrink or in some cases even stretch too large.
In any case, it’s a total let down, especially when it happens to your favorite jeans. Fortunately, there are ways you can combat denim wear and tear, and keep your favorite jeans fitting the same way they did when you first wore them.
Too Big
Are your jeans stretching their limits? Try throwing them in the washer and set the water temperature to hot or warm. This method works best with denim that’s as close to 100% cotton as possible. Avoid using fabric softener, as this puts a thin coating of chemicals on the material and causes it to wear and tear more easily.
Once done with washing, put your jeans in the dryer on the hottest setting possible. This will ultimately constrict the fibers in your denim, and give back that snug, fitted feel to your jeans.
Bonus tip: If only the waistband of your jeans is loose, try sewing a six-inch piece of elastic (that is easily available at a fabric store) into the waistband at the back of your jeans.
Too Tight
This method is easy and requires simple household materials. First, spray your jeans with warm water. Then, lay and stretch them out on the floor (preferably, on a hardwood floor). Stand on each leg of the jeans, bend over and use your hands to pull up and stretch your jeans as needed. You may also need to re-apply the water spray if you want to stretch them out even further.
Another method you can try is sitting in a warm (emphasis on warm and not hot) bathtub while wearing your jeans. The water will help loosen and stretch the fibers while shaping them around your legs. Just be sure to hang and dry your jeans when you’re done.
Bonus tip: If your waistband is too tight, you can try removing it. To do this, tear the side seams of your jeans about two to three inches down, and then cut the waistband at the same location. Then, add a separate piece of denim or leather to expand the waist area.