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Tips om broeken te wassen zonder krimpen | Washok.nl

Tips for washing trousers without shrinking | Washok.nl

Written by: Irma ten Napel

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Published on

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Time to read 4 min

You’ve probably experienced this before: you just bought those perfect pants that fit like a glove, but after one wash, they suddenly don’t fit as well. Shrinkage is a common problem when washing pants, but luckily there are ways to prevent it. In this blog post, we’ll share the best tips for washing your pants without shrinking them, so that your favorite pairs last longer and stay in place!

Tip 1: Read the washing label

First let the gourmet set cool down properly, this not only prevents you from burning yourself, but it also makes cleaning a lot easier. When the gourmet set is still warm, food residues can stick to the baking plates. So wait patiently until the device has cooled down and then start cleaning.

Step 2 Remove loose food debris

Before you throw your trousers in the washing machine, it is essential to read the care label. This contains important information about the recommended washing temperature, the drying process and any special treatments. Follow these instructions carefully to prevent shrinkage. If the label states that the trousers should be washed at a maximum of 30 degrees, then stick to this.

Tip 2: Wash at a low temperature

One of the main causes of shrinkage is washing at too high a temperature. The higher the washing temperature, the greater the chance that the fabric will shrink. Therefore, always wash your trousers at a low temperature, preferably at 30 degrees or lower. This is not only better for maintaining the fit, but also for the environment and your energy bill.

Tip 3: Use a mild detergent

Choose a mild detergent specifically for delicates or colored clothing. These detergents contain fewer aggressive substances that can damage the fibers of your pants and cause shrinkage. Avoid detergents with bleach and optical brighteners, unless you are washing white pants.

Laundry detergent

Tip 4: Wash trousers inside out

A clever trick to prevent wear and discoloration of your pants is to wash them inside out. This protects the outside of the fabric from friction and discoloration from other garments in the washing machine. Make sure to close any zippers and buttons to prevent damage.

Tip 5: Avoid the dryer

The tumble dryer is perhaps the biggest culprit when it comes to shrinking trousers. The high temperature and tumbling process can shrink the fabric and affect the fit. Remove the trousers from the washing machine immediately after it is finished and give them a good shake. Always hang your trousers to dry on a clothes rack or hanger. This way they dry naturally and retain their shape.

Tip 6: Carefully shape stretch pants

If you notice that your pants have shrunk a little after washing, you can try gently stretching them back into shape while they are still damp. Gently stretch the pants lengthwise and widthwise until they are the desired fit again. Then let them air dry. This method works especially well for pants that contain a percentage of elastane or spandex.

Tip 7: Consider hand washing for delicate trousers

Do you have a pair of trousers made of a delicate fabric, such as wool or silk, or a pair that you find very valuable? Consider washing them by hand. Fill a sink or bucket with lukewarm water and a small amount of mild detergent. Let the trousers soak in this for a few minutes and then gently squeeze them out. Rinse with cold water and let them air dry.

Gourmet pan

Tip 8: Steam instead of ironing

If your trousers are a bit wrinkled after washing, it can be tempting to go over them with a hot iron. But be careful, because the heat of the iron can damage the fabric and cause it to shrink. A better alternative is steaming. Hang your trousers on a clothes hanger and use a steamer or steam iron to remove the wrinkles. Keep a sufficient distance and avoid direct contact with the fabric.

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Tip 9: Store trousers hanging or folded

Finally, a tip about storing your trousers. Preferably hang them on a clothes hanger or fold them neatly in your closet. Do not stuff them together, because this can cause unwanted folds and creases that will not come out when you wear them. With the right storage method, your trousers will stay in good shape for longer.


With these tips, you should be able to wash your pants without them shrinking. The most important thing is to read the care label carefully, wash at a low temperature and avoid the dryer. If you do happen to shrink, try to gently stretch the pants into shape while they are still damp. And remember: a little extra care for your favorite pants will pay off in the long run!


Do you have any other tips for washing pants without wrinkles? Let us know in the comments below.

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