How To Shrink A Bathing Suit: 3 Simple Ways (2023)
If you’ve ever found yourself with a swimsuit that’s a tad too loose or if you’re looking to achieve that perfect fit, you’re not alone!
There is nothing worse than a flattering bathing suit that loses its shape over time or maybe finding a design that you love but need in a smaller size.
The good news is, there are options for shrinking your bathing suit that are quick and easy.
Whether you have a new swimsuit, an old swimsuit, a one-piece, a bikini top, or bikini bottoms that need some adjustments, I’ve got you covered.
Why Would You Want to Shrink a Swimsuit?
Before we get into the exact steps for shrinking you’re bathing suit, you might be wondering what circumstances would lead you to need to shrink your swimwear.
However, it’s actually not as uncommon as you might think.
When it comes to bathing suits, finding the perfect fit is not only essential for comfort but confidence as well.
And as we already discussed, there are definitely instances where a swimsuit is slightly too large and requires shrinking to give you the perfect fit and desired size.
Here are a few common reasons why you might want to shrink a swimsuit in the first place:
Weight Loss or Body Changes
If you’ve recently lost weight or experienced changes in your body shape, your favorite swimsuit may no longer fit as snugly (in the best way) as before.
Shrinking it can help you maintain a better fit and feel more comfortable in the water.
Purchased a Size Too Big
Sometimes, in the excitement of shopping for a new bathing suit, we end up buying a size larger than we actually need.
Instead of returning it, you can shrink the swimsuit to achieve the right fit without going through the hassle of exchanges or refunds.
You may also not realize it’s too big until you’ve worn it in water, in which case you may not be able to return it.
Stretching After Wearing
Over time, swimsuit materials, especially synthetic fibers like nylon and polyester, can stretch out with frequent use.
This can result in a sagging or loose fit – particularly with swimsuit bottoms.
Not only is this not a good look, but it also affects its functionality.
Shrinking the swimsuit can help restore its original shape and ensure a better fit.
Hand-Me-Down Swimsuits or a Design You Love
If you’ve come across a design you absolutely love but couldn’t get in your size, or maybe you have a hand-me-down swimsuit that you adore but is a bit too loose, shrinking it can give it a new lease on life and allow you to enjoy wearing it without compromising on style!
You’re a competitive swimmer
When it comes to competitive swimming, the less drag, the better, and wearing a well-fitting suit will give you a competitive edge.
It’s imperative for a competitive swimsuit to be the exact right size.
Competition swimsuits fit incredibly snugly so if yours is too loose, you’ll want to fix that asap.
By shrinking a swimsuit, you can “fix” everything from sizing discrepancies and sagging to stretched materials resulting in a better and more flattering fit for your next pool or beach outing!
Consider the Material
When it comes to shrinking a swimsuit, the first thing to consider is the type of fabric it’s made of.
Different materials will respond differently to shrinking methods.
Here are some suit material considerations to keep in mind:
Synthetic Materials (Nylon, Polyester, Spandex):
- Synthetics are the most popular material commonly used in swimwear due to their stretch and durability.
- A nylon swimsuit or polyester swimsuit can typically withstand higher temperatures without significant damage.
- Shrinking synthetic swimsuits can be done using various methods such as hot water, a washing machine, or a steam iron.
Natural Fabrics (Cotton, Linen):
- Linen and cotton swimsuits are less common but can be found in some designs.
- Natural fiber swimsuits are usually much more responsive to heat treatments, so you’ll want to be careful with how much heat you expose them to.
- These swimsuits may require more gentle methods to avoid damage, such as hand washing in warm water and air drying.
Blended Fabrics (Cotton Blends, Polyester Blends):
- Many swimsuits incorporate a blend of different materials to enhance comfort and stretch.
- Shrinking blended fabric swimsuits may require a combination of techniques that works for each different material.
Remember, it’s always best to check the care label and any specific instructions provided by the swimsuit manufacturer.
These guidelines will give you valuable information on the recommended care and potentially the best way to shrink the swimsuit without causing any damage.
Some materials are much more prone to shrinkage (ie more sensitive to heat) so if when you’re wanting to shrink your swim attire, it’s important not to expose it to too much heat or too high of heat to be sure it doesn’t shrink more than you’d like it to.
How to Shrink a Swimsuit: Step-by-Step Guide
Shrinking Methods
Here are a few different ways you can safely shrink a swimsuit:
Method 1: Hot Water Soak
This method involves letting the suit soak in hot water to allow it to shrink naturally.
You can do this by following these steps:
1. Fill a basin or sink with hot, clean water
Of course, you’ll want to adjust the water temperature based on the material of your swimsuit.
Hot or boiling water works well for synthetic fabrics, while warm water is best for natural fibers.
2. Submerge the swimsuit
Place the swimsuit in the hot water and let it soak for about 30 minutes. The heat will cause the fibers to contract and shrink.
3. Rinse with cold water
After the soak, rinse the swimsuit with cool water to remove any excess detergent or residue.
Method 2: High Heat Dryer
This dryer method is pretty self-explanatory and involves using the high heat setting in the dryer to expedite the shrinking process.
Follow these steps:
1. Place the swimsuit in a mesh laundry bag
This will protect the swimsuit from potential damage caused by direct contact with the dryer drum or other garments.
2. Set the dryer to a high heat setting
Choose a high heat setting on your dryer that is suitable for the fabric of your suit (again, you’ll want to read the care instructions).
3. Monitor the drying process
Keep a close eye on the swimsuit as it dries to prevent it from shrinking too much or becoming damaged.
I recommend checking on the swimsuit every 10 minutes or so to see if it’s done to your liking. Never leave it in the dryer for a long time without checking on it.
Depending on how much you need to shrink your swimsuit, you can also use this method after running your bathing suit through the hot cycle of the washing machine.
Method 3: Ironing the Swimsuit
Using an iron to apply heat directly to the swimsuit is a good idea for controlled shrinking due to the iron having the ability to be adjusted to low, high, or medium heat.
Here’s what you’ll want to do:
1. Pretreat the swimsuit
You’ll want to wash the bathing suit prior to ironing, making sure to remove any stains (such as sunscreen stains) as the iron will make the stains set.
Remember, placing your swimsuit in a mesh laundry bag is a safer way to wash a bathing suit.
Squeeze out any excess water and then let the bathing suit air dry until it’s damp. (You will want to iron the swimsuit while it’s damp).
2. Set the iron to a low heat setting
Adjust the iron to a low heat setting suitable for the fabric of your swimsuit.
Place a cotton cloth or thin fabric over the damp bathing suit on top of the ironing board.
This will act as a protective barrier between the iron and the swimsuit, preventing direct contact that could damage the garment.
3. Gently iron the bathing suit
Apply light pressure and move the iron over the areas that need shrinking.
Be very careful not to leave the iron in one place for too long, as it may burn or cause other damage to the fabric.
You’ll want to do this until the bathing suit is completely dried.
A couple more notes on shrinking your swimming suit – you can use one or more of the methods mentioned above to shrink your swimsuit, but I always recommend starting with one and moving on to the next depending on how effective it was for the fit.
It’s also worth noting that these methods will work on all types of suits from a one-piece swimsuit to a bikini top or bathing suit bottoms – the swimsuit fabrics are the more important thing to consider.
How To Care for the Shrunken Swimsuit
After you have successfully shrunk your swimsuit, it’s important to handle it with proper care to maintain its new size. Here are some tips:
1. Let the swimsuit air dry on a flat surface, preferably away from direct sunlight (as it could affect the color).
2. Avoid using a high heat source like direct contact with a dryer. This can cause it to continue shrinking – once it’s the size you want it, air drying is your best bet.
3. Store your swimsuit in a cool and dry place, away from moisture and harsh chemicals.
4. Rinse your swimsuit thoroughly after each use to remove chlorine, salt water, and body oils that could damage your suit.
5. When washing and drying your swimming suit use a mesh garment bag to keep it from snagging or getting damaged in another way.
More Tips for Best Results
In addition to the step-by-step guide, here are some extra tips and considerations to keep in mind when shrinking a swimsuit:
Use caution with high temperatures
While hot water and heat can help shrink a swimsuit, be mindful of the fabric’s limitations.
Excessive heat can cause damage or discoloration, especially for delicate or synthetic materials.
The type of material is an extremely important factor to consider.
Take gradual steps
If you’re unsure about the amount of shrinkage needed, start with a shorter soaking time or lower heat setting, and gradually increase if necessary.
This will allow you to have more control over the shrinking process.
Follow care instructions
Always refer to the swimsuit’s care label for specific instructions on washing, drying, and ironing methods.
Some swimsuits may have specific recommendations or limitations regarding shrinking and of course, you’ll want to be sure you’re not using too high of heat or doing anything that might permanently damage it.
Avoid harsh chemicals
When washing or soaking the swimsuit, use a mild laundry detergent to protect the fabric’s integrity.
Don’t use bleach or other harsh chemicals, as they can damage the swimsuit.
Consider professional alterations
If you’re uncertain about shrinking the swimsuit yourself or if you need significant alterations, it might be worth consulting a professional tailor or seamstress who specializes in swimwear alterations.
FAQ’s
Do swimsuits get tighter or looser in water?
Swimsuits typically get slightly looser when wet due to the fabric’s ability to stretch and expand when exposed to water.
However, the extent of looseness may vary depending on the material and construction of the swimsuit.
Why do swimsuits go baggy?
Swimsuits can become baggy over time due to the natural stretching and loss of elasticity in the fabric.
Frequent use, exposure to chlorine or saltwater, and improper care can all increase the likelihood of a swimsuit losing its shape and becoming baggy.
How do you know if a swimsuit is too big?
When trying on swimsuits if you find that there is excessive fabric bunching, sagging, or gaps in certain areas such as the bust, waist, or hips, it’s likely too large.
Or if you feel like you’re constantly readjusting, or if the swimsuit lacks adequate support or coverage, it may be too big for you.
Do swimsuits stretch in the wash?
Swimsuits made of certain materials, particularly synthetic blends like nylon and spandex, might stretch slightly during washing.
To minimize stretching, follow the care instructions provided on the tag. This will often recommend hand washing or using a gentle cycle with cool water.
Conclusion
Without much effort, you can easily shrink a swimsuit with one of the simple methods above.
Just remember that your first step is always to check what fabric the suit is made of.
Your next step is to think about how much you want your swimsuit to shrink.
You can then decide which is the best option to get it the exact size you want.
