How to enlarge a hoodie effectively ?

The shrinkage is due to a tightening of the textile fibers which make up the fabric. Under the effect of heat and friction during washing and drying, the fibers contract and the garment loses size and flexibility. This is a completely normal phenomenon but can be accentuated if certain maintenance precautions are not taken .

Also read: What is a Hoodie ?

Mistakes to avoid to preserve the size of your hoodie

To avoid having to enlarge your hoodie too often, it is better to take a few precautions when purchasing and when washing. Here are the mistakes to avoid if you want to keep your sweatshirt in its original size for as long as possible:

• Wash the hoodie at too high a temperature (over 30°C)
• Using a spin cycle that is too powerful
• Do not follow the care instructions on the label
• Tumble dry the sweatshirt at high temperature
• Iron the hoodie at too high a temperature

By following these few simple rules, you will limit the shrinkage of your hoodie over time. But if despite everything it has become too small, don't panic! There are many tips to restore it to its initial size without damaging it.

Also read: How to choose the perfect hoodie for you ?

Specifically enlarging a hoodie: steps to follow

Preparing the hoodie before enlargement

Before starting to enlarge your hoodie, it is important to prepare it well to optimize the results. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Machine wash the hoodie cold (30°C max) with a mild detergent. This will soften the fibers of the fabric.

2. Wring the sweatshirt gently without twisting it so as not to damage it. You can roll it in a towel to absorb excess water.

3. While the hoodie is still damp, gently stretch it in all directions to return it to its original shape. Focus on the areas that have shrunk the most (sleeves, torso, hood, etc.).

4. Let the sweatshirt dry flat on a clean towel, without exposing it to a direct source of heat. Avoid tumble drying which could cause it to shrink again.

Once your hoodie is well prepared, you can move on to the different enlargement techniques detailed below.

Hoodie enlargement process

Using hot water

One of the simplest and most effective techniques for enlarging a hoodie is to use hot water. The heat will help relax the fibers of the fabric and restore ease to the garment. Here's how to do it:

1. Heat water until it is very hot but still bearable for the skin (around 40°C).

2. Immerse your hoodie in hot water and let it soak for fifteen minutes. You can add a little hair conditioner to soften the fabric even more.

3. Take the sweatshirt out of the water without wringing it out, gently stretch it in all directions to restore its original shape and size.

4. Let the hoodie dry naturally on a flat surface, without exposing it to direct sunlight or a heat source.

Using hair conditioner

The hair conditioner isn't just for your manes! It is also a great ally for enlarging a hoodie that has become too small. It will act as a softener and allow the fibers of the fabric to gently relax. To use it, nothing could be simpler:

1. In a container, mix lukewarm water with a generous dose of hair conditioner. Allow approximately 1/4 cup of conditioner for 4L of water.

2. Soak your hoodie in this bath for approximately half an hour.

3. Take the hoodie out of the water, wring it out gently without twisting it. Gently stretch it in all directions, focusing on the tightest areas like the sleeves or bust.

4. Let the sweatshirt dry flat on a towel, away from direct sunlight. Once dry, your hoodie should have returned to a more comfortable size.

Also read: How to Shrink a Sweatshirt ?

Manual stretching method

If your hoodie has only shrunk slightly, you can try to return it to its original size simply by stretching it manually. This technique requires a little patience but can be extremely effective. Proceed as follows:

1. Lightly wet your hoodie with lukewarm water, either by spraying it with a spray, or by soaking it for a few minutes in a basin.

2. On a flat surface, gradually stretch the sweatshirt widthwise and lengthwise. Focus on the tightest areas by gently pulling on the fabric.

3. For the sleeves, insert a cylindrical object (bottle, rolling pin, etc.) and gently stretch the fabric all around. Do the same for the hood and bust if necessary.

4. Let the hoodie dry naturally on a hanger or drying rack, without exposing it to a direct source of heat.

Steam ironing to relax the fabric

Your iron can also help you enlarge a shrunken hoodie, provided you use it correctly. The hot steam will help relax the fibers of the fabric and restore flexibility to the garment. Here's how to do it:

1. Set your iron to a temperature suitable for the material of your hoodie. Choose a soft setting for cotton and wool, a little warmer for polyester.

2. Lay the sweatshirt flat on an ironing board and lightly dampen it with a spray bottle.

3. Iron the entire hoodie, paying particular attention to the tightest areas. Gently pull on the fabric as you iron to gradually stretch it.

4. Let the sweatshirt cool and dry on a hanger, without exposing it to direct sunlight.

At The Oversized Hoodie®, we have tested and perfected many techniques to enlarge our customers' hoodies. Our experience has taught us that the key is to proceed gently, with the right products, to restore the garment to its original size and comfort without damaging it.
— Geoffrey, Founder of The Oversized Hoodie®

Also read: How to wear a hoodie with style ?

Detail of necessary equipment

To effectively enlarge a hoodie with the methods detailed above, you will need little material. Depending on the technique chosen, plan:

• Hot water (around 40°C)
• From hair conditioner or from fabric softener
• A basin or sink
• Clean, dry towels
• An iron with steam function
• A water spray
• An ironing board
• Cylindrical objects (bottles, rolls, etc.))
• Baking soda
• White vinegar

I remember a customer, Marie, who contacted us a few months ago, completely desperate. Her favorite hoodie, which she had had for years and which followed her everywhere, had shrunk drastically in the wash. It was a unique model that she had customized herself and to which she was very attached.

Marie was convinced that she could never wear it again and that she would have to part with it. But in talking with her, we explained to her that there were many techniques for to enlarge a hoodie which has shrunk and her restore its original  size .

We detailed the method of soaking in hot water with white vinegar, emphasizing the importance of stretching the garment gently. Marie followed our advice to the letter and a few days later, she contacted us again, delighted: her hoodie had found its  initial size and she could wear it again with pleasure!

His testimony shows how important it is not to get discouraged when a hoodie shrinks in the wash. With the right gestures and a little patience, it is entirely possible to give it a second life. This is what we strive to convey to our customers every day at The Oversized Hoodie®.

Also read: How to Wear a Men's Hoodie ?

Maintain the new size of your hoodie

Tips to avoid shrinkage after enlargement

Once you've managed to enlarge your hoodie to your size, it would be a shame if it shrinks again the next time you wash it! To avoid this, adopt good maintenance:

• Always wash your sweatshirt at low temperature (30°C max) with a delicate program.

• Use a suitable detergent and dose it according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

• Avoid spinning too intensely which risks deforming the fabric. Prefer a gentle or moderate spin.

• Do not put your hoodie in the dryer, especially at high temperatures. Always let it dry flat, in the open air.

• To relax the fibers, you can add a tablespoon of conditioner or softener to the machine tray during the rinse cycle .

• Avoid ironing which could cause the fabric to shrink again. If your hoodie is wrinkled, relax it with steam instead.

By taking care of your sweatshirt on a daily basis, you will ensure better longevity and prevent it from shrinking again over time and washing. Your hoodie will thus retain its ideal size and its original shape for longer.

As hoodie enthusiasts, we know how frustrating it is to have a favorite sweatshirt that shrinks in the wash.This is why we are keen to share our best care tips for lastingly maintaining the size of your hoodies, which we have been refining since the creation of The Oversized Hoodie®.
— Geoffrey, Founder of The Oversized Hoodie ®

Adapted care to maintain the size of the hoodie

Beyond the washing tips, it is important to adapt the care of your hoodie according to its material and its size current. A few simple actions can make all the difference:

• After washing, gently stretch your sweatshirt in all directions before drying it. Focus on sensitive areas like the wrists or neckline.

• For hoodies made from cotton or wool, add a handful of baking soda to the drum of the machine. This will soften the fibers and prevent shrinkage.

• If your sweatshirt has shrunk slightly, do not hesitate to steam iron it after each wash, gently stretching the fabric.

• Remember to store it on a wide, airy hanger, rather than folded in a cupboard. The fabric will be less likely to bunch and shrink.

• To revive the fibers, you can soak your hoodie once a month in cold water with white vinegar. Rinse well and let dry flat.

By pampering your hoodie with a tailor-made care, you will allow it to sustainably maintain the size that you had so much trouble finding. Your sweatshirt will stay like new for longer, ready to accompany you on all your adventures!

Also read: Why adopt the oversize style ?

Conclusion

You now know how to enlarge a hoodie that has become too small, by following our advice and tips step by step. With a little patience and the right gestures, you can restore your favorite sweatshirt to its original size without damaging it.

Remember that it is important to choose the right method depending on the material of your hoodie and the extent of the enlargement desired. With a little practice, you'll know exactly how to enlarge your sweatshirt depending on the situation.

FAQ

How to make a sweater that is too small ?

To enlarge a sweater that has become too small, use the method of soaking in hot water with hair conditioner. Leave the sweater to soak for fifteen minutes, then gently stretch it in all directions before letting it dry flat. You can also iron it gently with steam to relax the fibers.

How to enlarge a jacket that is too small ?

Enlarging a jacket into denim or leather requires a little more delicacy. Avoid getting it completely wet and prefer a simple spray of water. Then gently stretch the jacket widthwise, at the shoulders and sleeves. Leave to dry on a wooden hanger, without exposing it to a direct source of heat.

How to enlarge a sweatshirt ?

The most effective technique for enlarging a sweatshirt is that of a hot water bath. Soak your sweatshirt in a basin of water at 40°C for half an hour, with a little baby shampoo. Then stretch it in all directions before drying it in the open air, placed on a clean dry towel.

How to widen a garment that is too tight ?

To enlarge a garment that is too small by one size, it is better to proceed in stages. Start by soaking it in cold water with a tablespoon of baking soda. Then stretch it gradually, first widthwise then lengthwise. Repeat the operation until you obtain the desired adjustment.

How to recover a wool sweater that has shrunk ?

A shrunk wool sweater can be restored to its original size with a bath in cold water and white vinegar. Leave the sweater to soak for half an hour, then gently stretch it in all directions. Rinse with clean water and let dry flat on a towel, without exposing it to direct sunlight.

How to enlarge a top that is too small ?

To enlarge a top that has become too small, opt for soaking in lukewarm water with fabric softener. After about fifteen minutes, take the garment out of the water and gently stretch it, first widthwise then lengthwise. Leave to dry on a hanger, without wringing or ironing.

How to enlarge a t-shirt ?

A t-shirt that is too tight can be biggered effectively by soaking it in hot water with a little hair conditioner. After half an hour of soaking, stretch the t-shirt in all directions, paying particular attention to the seams and the neckline. Then dry it flat, without exposing it to a source of heat.

How to fix a wool sweater that has shrunk in the wash ?

If your wool sweater has shrunk during washing, immerse it in a bath of cold water mixed with two tablespoons of baby shampoo. After half an hour, take the sweater out of the water and gently stretch it width and length. Rinse with clean water and let dry flat.

How to enlarge a garment that is too small ?

Enlarging a garment by a size is possible by combining several techniques. First soak it in hot water with a little baking soda. Then stretch it manually before steam ironing it. Finally, let it dry naturally on a hanger, without exposing it to a direct source of heat.

How to recover a shrunken sweater ?

To recover a shrunken sweater, start by soaking it in a bath of cold water and white vinegar for half an hour. Then gently stretch it in all directions, paying particular attention to the tightest areas. Rinse with clean water and let dry flat, without wringing or ironing the pull.

Sources

[1] "How To Make A Hoodie Bigger: Steps w/ Photos | Tall Paul"

[2] "How To Make A Hoodie Bigger? A Comprehensive Guide"

[3] "How to make a hoodie bigger Easy And Effortlessly? Explained"