Windbreaker jackets are a staple of the modern wardrobe. They are lightweight and comfortable, perfect for keeping you warm on chilly days. But sometimes, even the most perfect windbreaker jacket can be a bit too big. If you find yourself in this situation, you may be wondering how to shrink a windbreaker jacket so it fits you perfectly. Don’t worry - it’s easier than you think!
Steps To Shrink a Windbreaker Jacket
The process of shrinking a windbreaker jacket is surprisingly simple, and doesn’t take long to do. Here are the steps you need to take to get your windbreaker jacket fitting just right:
1. Wash the Jacket
First, you need to wash the jacket. This will help to remove any dirt and debris that might be clinging to the fabric. Make sure you use a cold water cycle, as hot water can cause further shrinking. Additionally, it’s important to use a mild detergent. Harsh chemicals can damage the fabric and cause it to shrink unevenly.
2. Dry the Jacket
Once the jacket has been washed, it’s time to dry it. You should never put a windbreaker jacket in the dryer, as the heat can cause the fabric to shrink too much. Instead, hang the jacket outside to dry on a clothesline or similar. Make sure it’s in the shade, as direct sunlight can also cause damage to the fabric.
3. Iron the Jacket
Once the jacket is dry, you will need to iron it. This will help to set the fabric and ensure that it doesn’t shrink too much when it’s worn. Make sure you use a low heat setting, as the fabric is delicate and can be easily damaged. Additionally, it’s important to use a pressing cloth between the iron and the fabric to prevent it from burning or melting.
4. Wear the Jacket
Finally, you can wear the jacket. The heat from your body will cause the fabric to shrink slightly, resulting in a perfect fit. This is why it’s important to iron the jacket before wearing it - if you don’t, the fabric may shrink too much and become uncomfortable. Additionally, make sure you take the jacket off before it gets too hot, as this can also cause the fabric to shrink too much.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I shrink a windbreaker jacket in the dryer?
No, you should never put a windbreaker jacket in the dryer, as the heat can cause the fabric to shrink too much. Instead, hang the jacket outside to dry on a clothesline or similar.
Can I shrink a windbreaker jacket in the washing machine?
Yes, you can shrink a windbreaker jacket in the washing machine. However, it is important to make sure you use a cold water cycle and mild detergent, as hot water and harsh chemicals can cause further shrinking.
What temperature should I iron a windbreaker jacket at?
When ironing a windbreaker jacket, you should use a low heat setting. The fabric is delicate and can be easily damaged, so it is important to use the lowest temperature possible.
What happens if I wear a windbreaker jacket before shrinking it?
If you wear a windbreaker jacket before shrinking it, the heat from your body will cause the fabric to shrink slightly. This is why it’s important to iron the jacket before wearing it - if you don’t, the fabric may shrink too much and become uncomfortable.
Can I use hot water to shrink a windbreaker jacket?
No, you should never use hot water to shrink a windbreaker jacket. Hot water can cause the fabric to shrink too much, resulting in an uncomfortable fit.
Should I use a pressing cloth when ironing a windbreaker jacket?
Yes, it is important to use a pressing cloth between the iron and the fabric to prevent it from burning or melting.
Should I hang my windbreaker jacket in direct sunlight?
No, you should never hang your windbreaker jacket in direct sunlight. Direct sunlight can cause damage to the fabric and cause it to shrink unevenly.