Have you ever bought a pair of faux leather pants that were just a little too big? Or maybe you’ve had a pair for a while and they’ve just started to stretch out. No matter what the reason, shrinking faux leather pants is actually a lot easier than you might think. In this article, we will show you how to do it using four different methods. So whether your pants are just a little too large or they’re starting to look a bit baggy, read on for some tips on how to shrink them back down to size!
What is Faux Leather?
Faux leather is any material that looks and feels like genuine leather but isn’t. It can be made from a variety of different materials such as polyurethane, PVC, or even recycled plastic bottles. Faux leather is popular because it’s much less expensive than real leather and is often more durable and easy to care for. [1]
What Type Of Faux Leather To Go For?
When looking for faux leather pants, it’s important to make sure you select the correct type. A high-quality pair of faux leather pants should be made from a thick and sturdy material that will hold up over time. Avoid any pants that are thin or have a glossy finish as these types tend to stretch out more quickly.
Are Faux Leather Pants Worth It or Not?
Do Faux Leather Pants Stretch?
Yes, faux leather pants can stretch over time. This is because the material is flexible and not as rigid as genuine leather. The good news is that you can shrink them back down to size using one of the methods mentioned below!
Can You Shrink Faux Leather Pants?
Yes, you can shrink faux leather pants back down to size by using one of four different methods. We’ll go over each method in more detail below so you can decide which one is best for your pants. [2]
1. Soak Your Leather Pants in Warm Water
To start, fill a sink or large bucket with warm water and add a mild detergent. Submerge your pants in the solution, making sure all parts are completely soaked. Let them sit for 15-30 minutes before removing and lightly squeezing out any excess water.
2. Select a Drying Method
Method 1: Hairdryer to Shrink Leather Pants
Once your pants are out of the water, use a hairdryer to dry them. Start at the lowest setting and make sure to move the dryer in a circular motion across all parts of the pants. This will help to further shrink them down as you go.
Method 2: Naturally Air Dry to Shrink Leather Pants
If you don’t have a hairdryer, you can also let your pants air dry naturally. Hang them up in a well-ventilated area and let them sit for at least 24 hours until completely dry.
Method 3: Sun Drying to Shrink Leather Pants
For an even faster drying time, you can hang your leather pants in direct sunlight. This will shrink them down quickly and the sun’s natural UV rays will help to further strengthen the material. Just make sure not to leave them out for too long as this could cause fading or discoloration of the fabric.
Method 4: Dryer to Shrink Leather Pants
Finally, you can also use a dryer to shrink your leather pants. Start on the lowest setting and add a few towels or other items of clothing to the load. This will help to keep the leather from becoming too hot and damaging itself in the process.
3. Protect Your Leather Pants
Once you’ve finished shrinking your leather pants, it’s important to protect them from future stretching. After each wear, use a leather conditioner or wax to maintain the material and keep it in top shape. You should also avoid sitting for long periods while wearing your pants as this can cause them to stretch out over time.
Alternative Shrinking Solutions for Leather Pants
If none of the above methods work, you may need to try an alternative solution.
Why Leather Pants Expand & Stretch?
Leather pants are a great fashion statement, but sometimes they can be difficult to manage. Knowing how to care for them properly is key to keeping them looking their best. Leather is an animal hide and naturally has some elasticity built in as it expands and contracts with movement. This means that leather pants may stretch out over time or when exposed to moisture. [3]
When You Should Consider Shrinking Your leather pants
If you find that your leather pants are starting to feel a bit loose or if the waistband is slipping down, then it might be time to consider shrinking them. This can also help if your pants have been soaked in water and they’ve gotten even looser after drying.
FAQ
How do you maintain faux leather pants?
Faux leather pants should be treated as you would other clothing items. Have them professionally dry cleaned if necessary, and store them in a breathable garment bag away from direct heat or sunlight when not wearing. Preventing your faux leather pants from stretching by taking off any tight belts or buckles while wearing them is also important.
Should you wash faux leather pants inside out?
Yes, it is recommended to wash faux leather pants inside out and in cold water on a gentle cycle. Hang them up to dry immediately after washing. Do not put them in the dryer as this could cause further damage or shrinkage.
Are faux leather pants comfortable?
Yes, faux leather pants are comfortable to wear and can look stylish when paired with the right top. They are also generally easier to care for than genuine leather pants.
Do faux leather pants keep you warm?
Yes, faux leather pants can provide good insulation and can keep you warm in colder weather. They are not as breathable as other materials like cotton, so it’s best to wear them in moderation.
Useful Video: Fix It: Reshaping Pant Waist
Conclusion
Faux leather pants are a great addition to any wardrobe, but they can be difficult to care for. By following the tips in this article, you can keep your faux leather pants looking their best for years to come. Do you have any other tips for caring for faux leather clothing? Share them with us in the comments below!
References:
- https://mitchellfauxleathers.com/Default/ViewPoint/Read/faux-leather-viewpoint/2014/04/07/what-is-faux-leather
- https://www.libertyleathergoods.com/how-to-shrink-leather-pants
- https://www.leathercult.com/blog/how-to-prevent-your-leather-pants-from-stretching