To make leggings fit better, especially if they feel loose, you can try methods aimed at shrinking the fabric.
Methods to Shrink Leggings for a Better Fit
Making leggings fit more snugly often involves using heat to encourage the fibers in the fabric to contract. Based on common approaches, this typically focuses on laundry techniques.
Here are key methods you can use:
Method 1: Washing in Hot Water
- Step 1: Place your leggings in the washing machine.
- Step 2: Select a cycle that uses hot water.
- Step 3: Run the wash cycle as usual.
Washing in hot water is a primary way to help shrink the fabric of your leggings. This process is particularly effective for materials like cotton and certain blends. As noted, this "will help to shrink the fabric and make the waistband tighter."
Method 2: Using High Heat in the Dryer
- Step 1: After washing (especially if the hot water wash wasn't enough), transfer your leggings to the dryer.
- Step 2: Set the dryer to high heat.
- Step 3: Dry your leggings completely or for a few minutes.
Putting your leggings in the dryer on high heat is another technique to encourage shrinkage. This heat further helps the fabric fibers contract. As the reference suggests, doing this "will help to shrink the fabric." You can try this step if washing alone didn't achieve the desired fit.
By applying heat through washing and drying, you can often achieve a more fitted feel for leggings that have stretched out or were slightly too large initially.