Preshrunk shirts can be a blessing as well as a curse. Designed to maintain their shape and size after washing, these garments have been treated by the manufacturer with heat, water, and sometimes chemicals. However, if the shirt doesn’t fit correctly, you may find yourself seeking ways to still shrink it down. Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! Here are four ways to shrink preshrunk shirts for a better fit:

1. Boiling Method

The boiling method is an effective way of shrinking preshrunk shirts because high heat can loosen fibers and cause them to contract. To do this, begin by filling a large pot with water and then bring it to a simmering boil. Once the water has reached boiling point, carefully submerge your shirt into the pot with a pair of tongs, ensuring that it is fully soaked. Let the shirt sit in the boiling water for about 5-10 minutes before removing it and allowing it to cool. Finally, hang or lay the shirt out flat to dry.

2. Increased Water Temperature in Washing Machine

Another simple method of achieving a smaller fit is by washing your preshrunk shirt in hotter water than recommended by the manufacturer. Set your washing machine temperature to at least 90°F (32°C) or higher—depending on how drastically you want your garment to shrink—and run a typical wash cycle using your normal detergent. Take note: this intentional misuse of clothing care instructions may result in uneven or more aggressive shrinking than desired.

3. Long Drying Time

In addition to washing in hot water, increasing the drying time can effectively shrink preshrunk shirts further. Place your washed shirt into the dryer and set the drying time for at least 60 minutes or use the highest heat setting available on your dryer. It’s essential to monitor the shrinking process by checking on your shirt every 15-20 minutes to ensure the right amount of shrinkage.

4. Iron and Steam Method

The iron and steam method works by applying localized heat and humidity to your preshrunk shirt, encouraging controlled shrinkage. Begin by laying your shirt on a clean, flat surface and moistening it slightly with a damp cloth. Then, set your iron at the highest cotton-appropriate heat setting and start pressing down on the parts of your shirt you want to be smaller. The combination of heat and moisture will assist in shrinking the fibers as you iron—just remember to keep moving the iron to avoid damaging or burning the fabric.

All four methods outlined above can be effective in shrinking preshrunk shirts further. To maximize results, utilize a combination of methods or experiment with each for the optimal degree of shrinkage for your desired fit.