LS&Co. Unzipped

Mike (not verified) - Apr 22 2013

Hi. I just bought a pair of 501 Original Fit Jeans, not Shrink To Fit, from the Levi's website. I plan on washing them in cold water and hanging them to dry. Will these jeans shrink as much as the STF jeans?

Editor's note: Hi Mike. Hope you like your 501s®. No, if they're not Shrink-to-Fit™, they won't shrink as much. That said, I like the idea of washing in cold water and air drying -- saves energy and ensures minimal shrinkage. (Since they're cotton, they will shrink some.) Hope they give you many years of comfortable wear.

Philip (not verified) - Apr 20 2013

I just bought my first pair of STF 501 and going with the machine wash method. 1.Should I air dry them out and wear them damp regardless that they are still big and wash them again after they dry to achieve the right sizes? 2. Also does this process of cleaning I've read in previous comments have to be done every time I wash my jeans question towards both machine and tub sitting? Thank you for time.

Editor's note: Hi Philip. It all depends on how much of a "denim head" you want to be. I spoke with a colleague last week -- a definite "denim head" -- who buys Shrink-to-Fit™ jeans in his actual size and never washes them. But...he's in the minority, I believe. If you bought yours in a larger-than-your-normal size, then you want them to "shrink to fit." But you don't want to overdo it. I'd recommend washing in cold water and air drying them, then repeating the process until they fit. If they remain far too big after a couple of washes, you may want to use warm water and air dry to see how they do. Also check the care tag on the jeans themselves to see if there are other tips.

Peter (not verified) - Apr 18 2013

I am usually wearing 34x34 or 36x34 pre-shrunk jeans. What length should I get in 501 STF to end up with a 34-inch inseam after the shrinking process? I think I would be OK with a 36-inch waist because that would shrink down to around 35, but I am unsure about the length. The STF comes in 36 and 38 inseams, and based on Levi's guide 3-inch shrinkage, the 36 would end up to being too short and the 38 would be too long. Any advise??? Thank you!

Editor's note: Hi Peter. The advice is to buy the Shrink-to-Fit™ three inches longer than what you want the end result to be. But since you're wanting a 34" result, and we don't currently offer a 37" inseam, I'd go with a 38". You don't want them too short, and you can always roll them up or -- after they shrink -- have them hemmed.

Josh (not verified) - Apr 16 2013

Where can I buy the poster for this. I loved this ad when it came out, but I am looking for the canvas hanging poster version. Is there an old Levis store I can purchase this from, I am pretty sure that this ad campaign is long gone and over with, so there should be some extras sitting around?

Editor's note: You're right, Josh. It's a great poster. I've checked around, but in the three years I've been here, I've never seen any around. Sorry I can't help.

Chet (not verified) - Apr 14 2013

How about 517® Boot Cut jeans? Do the same tips apply?

Editor's note: Hi Chet. Actually these tips apply to only the Levi's® 501™ Shrink To Fit jeans, which have had minimal processing in production and, thus, will shrink more when washed. That said, we always recommend washing in cold water, air (line) drying, and even not washing after every wear.

Brennan (not verified) - Apr 12 2013

Will the shrink to fit method work with old jeans or is it unique to this style?

Editor's note: Hi Brennan. Thanks for your question. It really applies to only the Shrink-to-Fit™ 501® jean, but we always recommend that you wash your jeans in cold water and air/line dry them.

Allen (not verified) - Apr 04 2013

If I buy true to size, how do I fit them to me without walking around in them while they are damp?

Editor's note: Hi Allen. You may let them air dry and then wear them. The main point is to not dry them in a machine, which can cause considerable shrinkage due to the heat.

Mike S (not verified) - Apr 02 2013

Is there any way to make the 501 Shrink to Fit jeans NOT shrink to any kind of fit? I ask because honestly, this sounds like more work than I'd like to put into a pair of jeans. Second, the 501 STF is the only pair of jeans I can find in a cut I like in a color I want (chocolate brown). So, if I buy true to size, would I be able to make them NOT shrink? I also have my jeans dry cleaned rather than washing them in our apartment's shared laundry room. Would that work in my favor?

Editor's note: Hi, and thanks for your comment. Cotton shrinks, and since the 501® has had minimal processing, it's going to shrink when washed. You'd have to talk with a dry cleaning expert to find out if there's a way around the shrinkage using that process. Let us know what you find out. Perhaps it'll be worth sharing here. Thank you again.

Neil (not verified) - Mar 28 2013

To lessen color fading, I heard some say to use salt and/or vinegar. Do you have any recipe/tips for using either/both?

Editor's note: Hi Neil. There are many different "home recipes" for taking care of jeans, but beyond the guidance in this blog post, we suggest only that you follow the care instructions on our products. Thank you for your comment.

Mike (not verified) - Mar 26 2013

I am a guy and I've always had problems with jeans due to the fact that when I'm standing they fit fine but when I sit down they wrap around my inner thigh and, to be blunt, around my crotch parts way too much. There is no breathing room in between my legs and down my inner thighs. The only jeans that somewhat feel okay are these huge tree trunk looking things that run huge down my calf as well and then it looks like I'm swimming in them. The STF 501s sound like I can finally get a custom fit, but I was wondering if anyone knows of a way to keep them from shrinking too tightly around the crotch/inner thigh area?...Like should I put something there while wearing them after that first wash to keep that area loose-ish...?

Editor's note: Hi Mike. I don't have a solution for you, but will post your question to see if a reader chimes in with some advice.

John Patterson (not verified) - Mar 26 2013
Hello Levi. First let me thank you for making this information available. That said, I feel that it should be given to each customer when they purchase the jeans. I own a dry cleaning company. Frequently we have to pay our customers for Levis 501 jeans that shrank in the first cleaning or laundering and are now too small. The customers are not informed. We try to catch them and inform them and are usually successful, but we do deal with hundreds of customers per day and most are drive thru and don't wait around for us to inspect each garment. We sell convenience! We often would prefer to dry clean these jeans since we are a GreenEarth (silicone fluid) dry cleaner and shrinkage and fading would be minimized. Unfortunately the vat dyed ones are labeled "do not dry clean" Thanks for reading, and just pointing out that by not educating the purchaser, these shrink to fit jeans are a financial and image harming trap for those of us who service clothing professionally.

Ian (not verified) - Jan 23 2013

I tried these once before, got my true size at the time and they fit really well, till I washed them. I bought 28/30 and I washed them in cold water, hung dry them, and I swear they shrunk down to a 26 waist 27 or 28 inseam. Now, I've gone down to a size 27 and these are my only hope to find nice jeans in this size, so should I ignore the instructions on the jeans and assume a 29" will shrink to a 27"? And, also get a longer length of 32"?

Editor's note:  My expert on the subject says the best approach is to wear the jeans for at least a month or two -- before washing them. Then, wear them while sitting in a bathtub. The process of wearing them will stretch them out sufficiently, so that when you wash them (after the tub sitting!), they'll still shrink, but only back to the point where they're comfortable, as they were when you bought them. I am going to try this myself.

Andrew G. (not verified) - Jan 21 2013

Hello, I just purchased my first pair of 501 stf's. my normal size is a 30x32 and my stf's are a 32x34. They are slightly damp still but i wayy to big. Guess my question is will they shrink that much more overnight or will it be possible for me to shrink them farther once they have dried?

Editor's note: Hi Andrew, and thanks for your question. Since you bought the larger size in the STFs, it's probably best for you to use a machine dryer -- rather than hanging them to dry -- to have them shrink to your preferred size. Once they shrink, you can stick to cold-water washes, when necessary, and air drying.

roberto j (not verified) - Jan 13 2013
I need help I'm a 30x32 or 31x32 normal but even that its baggy. And I just bought a pair of Levis 33x 34 and waist is perfect but length I didn't like so much it shrunk alot so will they stay like this or shrink more? Will it best to wash them less and colder water? Also does using a plunger shrink them more?

Michael (not verified) - Jan 12 2013

Does this work on 510 and 511??

Editor's note: Hi Michael, and thanks for your question. This process is more for the Shrink-to-Fit 501s® and not our other lines, which aren't intended to shrink like the STF 501® does.

Jonny (not verified) - Jan 06 2013

Doesnt anyone work hard in these jeans? Mine get washed and dried all the time because i'm busy with the rest of my life. They fit great and i just do the normal warm wash and tumble dry. Sorry to disappoint the eco friends out there.

Editor's note: Thanks, Jonny. I still wash mine, too, but I've always -- since my late teens, anyway -- tried to air dry them. It gives them a "stiff" feel, almost like they've been starched. Plus I think they shrink less over time. And I'll try to get at least a couple of wears out of them before washing, assuming I've not been biking or working in the yard or washing the dog in them. Appreciate your comment!

andre (not verified) - Jan 04 2013

Do I have to use this particular soap or can u use tide?? Very helpful though

Editor's note: Hi Andre. Your soap choice is up to you, of course, but the denim experts here say gentler is better. Thanks!

Rich S, UK (not verified) - Jan 03 2013

bought my first pair of STF 501's from the Levi's store in Regent Street, London, I'm normally 36/32 in pre-shrunk 501's but 34/32 in all other brands so tried on 36" and 34" waist 501's. The 36" waist were way too big and just couldn't envisage them shrinking enough to give a real good fit, so I opted for the 34/34's. The 34's had about 1/2" of give in them and sat comfortably on my waist. Naturally I was worried about the rate of shrinkage in the waist, but having worn them for over a week before washing/shrinking them the waist had stretched out enough to require a belt. I followed the washing instructions posted here and I'm pleased to report they are without doubt the best fitting jeans and best fitting 501's I've ever owned........the fit is amazing!! So all I will add is this, if you're going to buy a pair in your true size wear them for a week or so then shrink 'em and you'll end up with a pair of great looking fitted denims. If you like the more relaxed look then size up

Editor's note: Thanks, Rich! Passing along your experience for others to see.

Joe (not verified) - Jan 02 2013

How do I wear them out of the store, if they are too big in the waist and three inches too long? Won't turning the cuffs up lead to fade lines by the time of the first soak? If the pants shrink three inches in length, and I no longer roll them up, won't the fade lines show? Thanks for your reply.

Editor's note: Hi Joe, and thanks for your questions. I went to Clifford, a colleague and manager of the Levi's store here at our San Francisco headquarters, for his advice. Here's what he had to say:

With Shrink-to-Fit, the instructions on "sizing up" are meant for those who are going to wash them before wearing them. The desired shrinkage will happen after 3 washes. You have the option of using a washing machine or soaking them in a pail or bathtub with soap (we sell Dr Bronner’s Soap in the store). Some people wear the jeans while soaking them in the tub.

The second option for Shrink-to-Fit is to buy them in the size that they need (not sizing up) and wear them for at least a good 30 days over any period of time without washing them. This will basically mold the jeans to the body and create unique stressing, creasing, fading, patina, etc. The recommend washing is to soak in a bathtub while wearing them.

As for your cuff question, if you choose the second option of wearing them before washing, the denim would shrink in length after few washes so it’s best to size longer in the inseam to accommodate for the cuffing if you don’t want to show the fade lines.

Bruce Bryant (not verified) - Dec 28 2012

I always use cold water when washing. I get a perfect fit regardless if I wear them until dry or not. The jeans mold to my body regardless of the method I use for shrinking. Wearing them and washing them insure this. It is OK to turn the jeans inside out when washing. I am in the water wearing my jeans a lot anyway. Best results is achieved by not wearing underwear which I prefer anyway.

Editor's note: Thanks for your comment and advice. Others say wearing underwear is more comfortable and allows you to wear your jeans longer between washing, but, I guess, to each their own!

roger (not verified) - Dec 25 2012

I wear a 31w x 32 length. I cannot locate a 35" length. what do you do about people between sizes in length for shrink to fit?

Editor's note: Unless you prefer shorter lengths, I think it's usually better to "go long." You can always roll up the jeans or even have them altered. Thanks for your comment/question!

les pronin (not verified) - Dec 15 2012

PLEASE PLEASE HELP. I NEED A 28 INCH LUNGTH 501 or 505. Reason- I am so short/5'3". It gets so expensive. I buy aNew Pair of your jeans. Then have to pay an additional $16 to get them altered to fit my short body.

Editor's note: I'm sorry that we don't make a 28-inch length, but I will definitely share your feedback with our product development team. I can't promise you anything, but hearing from consumers -- like you, here -- is important to them. Thank you!

sheldon (not verified) - Dec 14 2012

I've bought my 501's a while back an have washed them few times, but my question is will they still shrink even though I've I've washed them?

Editor's note: Assuming these are Shrink-to-Fit™, if you're seeing shrinkage beyond 1" in the waist and 3" in the length after the first couple of washes, there may be a problem with the jeans.You may contact Consumer Relations here. Thanks!

Ashraff (not verified) - Nov 25 2012

Hi Cory. I just found this article and I wanted to try the method.The only problem is that I don't live in the Unites States of America and I couldn't get the Dr. Bronner's Soap. So how can I try this method?

Editor's note: Hello. The secret is using a gentle soap, not a harsh detergent. You may want to do a Google search for products similar in nature that are available where you live. Thanks for writing!

Felipe (not verified) - Nov 22 2012

Hey there gentlemen! I have a total if 7 shrink to fit levis and this set up is perfect: 1)after you buy them put them on and get on a bathtub with the hottest water you can stand. Stay there for about 45 min to an hour. 2)drain tub take jeans off and squeeze out all the water you can with your manly arms. 3) put them back on and go for a walk to air dry, sit by the pool or patio, etc. Do not take em off until they are dried all the way (remember gents they are shaping to our manly curves you don't want to disrupt these holy process). 4)Once dried all the way you can take them off turn inside out and apply a few sprays of fabreeze to them. 5) put them back on and go out with them, go to sleep with them, whatever you want to but I wear mine for at least 3 days in a row to get them to mold to my body. That is it gentlemen. If u spray fabreeze on the inside every time you take them off AND shower at least twice a day AND change undies (please do) on regular basis...YOU WILL NEVER EVER EVER EVER NEED TO WASH THESE JEANS!!!! True color will stay for a long time. Hope my humble opinion and process helped. Cheers!

Editor's note: Hi Felipe, and thanks for your input. We can't vouch for your approach, but sharing so that others might benefit from your perspective. You shower twice daily?

Steve (not verified) - Nov 20 2012

my regular size is 30x30 so would you suggest 32x32 for shrink-to-fit jeans? Thanks this would be my first pair.

Editor's note: Hi Steve. Apologies for the slow reply. The length will shrink more than the waist, so my resident experts tell me your best bet is 31 waist x 33 length. Hope that helps -- and good luck with the first pair!

Omar (not verified) - Nov 07 2012

I got a pair of stfs which were 1 1/2 inches longer on the waist and 3 inch longer on the inseam. I soaked it in hot water for about and hour. I didn't get enough shrinkage so I took a warm shower in it. How do I get additional shrinkage? Will using the drier shrink it further? Why don't you recommend using the drier?

Editor's note: Hi Omar. You will get additional shrinkage in the dryer, but you'll want to be careful. A hot dryer may shrink the jeans more than you want. One reason we don't recommend the dryer is energy savings. And personally, I love the feel of air-dried jeans. They're a little stiffer and, to me, feel fresher.

Joe Garza (not verified) - Oct 17 2012

Just purchased the 1915 Levi's 501xx Selvedge -Cone Mills Rigid USA Denims in Original Dark Indigo with no pre-faded or distressed spots , Is the pre-soaking hot wash treatment for those that want a form fit jeans ? I prefer a more relax & not form fitting in this style ( old fashion) Would that be cold wash / no dryer & hang to dry ? Thanks

Editor's note: Hi Joe, and thanks for your question. If you want relaxed, avoid a hot-water wash for less shrinkage. Stick to cold whenever you have to wash them and always air dry. Good luck -- and enjoy those jeans. They sound amazing!

b (not verified) - Sep 06 2012

The levi site says to buy jeans in a larger size and follow the same washing instructions you have here. However, you say buy in your true size. Which way do I go?

Editor's note:  Great question, b! I've turned to my resident expert and here's the scoop: For Shrink-to-Fit™ 501® jeans, you should purchase them 1" larger in the waist and 3" longer in the inseam. I'll update this blog to eliminate the confusion -- and thank you for calling this to my attention!

Coen (not verified) - Aug 31 2012

Hi Cory, I've got a few questions: I'm reading different things about washing and preserving color. I read about salt washing or vinegar washing to preserve colour, what is the difference? And what about the fridge? Is that a replacement for washing because it kills bacteria? It helps for the smell I heard. What are other possiblities for a bad smell? How can I get my best - little bit tight - fit? You say by putting your jeans on while drying? Is showering with jeans on a good idea? What about starch? I like my jeans a little bit crisp. How do I use it the best? Thanks in advance

Editor's note: Hi Coen. Every "denim head" has his or her own approach to taking care of their jeans. There are many different ways, of course. I've heard about the vinegar trick, but haven't tried it, so I can't vouch for it. We have heard that some people freeze their jeans, but we don't encourage it. Better to wash them, I think. I've found that air-drying not only saves energy, but also leaves my jeans a "little bit crisp," as you say. Otherwise, the information above is what we recommend.Thanks for writing -- and please accept my apologies for my delayed response. 

Carlo (not verified) - Jul 19 2012
ciao, Io ho circa 6 paia di 501 dallo scuro allo slavato al celeste e la mia tecnica per dargli la morbidezza al tessuto e schiarirli in modo omogeneo è lavarli spesso con scarpe sneakers o borse di plastica dura (da spesa) o qualcosa che possa strofinare il jeans nel lavaggio della lavatrice con sapone marsiglia liquido saluti Carlo Hello, I have about 6 pairs of 501 from dark to faded to blue and my technique to give softness to the fabric evenly lighten and wash it often with sneakers or hard plastic bags (to spend) that could rub or something the jeans in the washing machine with liquid soap marseille regards Charles

Chris Popov - Public (not verified) - Apr 16 2012

I have used Dr Bronner soap for 30 years and only worn 501s for the last 50 years, but never heard of soaking in Dr Bronner. What does the Dr B soap soak do?

Editor's note: Hi Chris. My understanding is that, in this case, Dr. Bronner's is a gentle soap that, when diluted, cleans the jeans without overcleaning and shouldn't harm your skin. You may want to check the Dr. Bronner's website for more information about its use.

Mike (not verified) - Mar 07 2012

Sometimes it's hard to keep a regimen like that on a busy schedule, am I doomed if my 501's get thrown in with the regular wash/dry loads?

Editor's note: You're not doomed! Everyone's different. This is just one way to have your jeans fit your body, but you may like yours -- as they are -- just fine! Thanks for asking!

Adam W (not verified) - Nov 13 2011

I just bought a pair of 501 STFs in my correct size. Not planning to wash them until absolutely necessary and then only in a cold tub. Just wondering if anyone has done this successfully. Do the legs real not shrink at all?

Editor's note: Thanks for the question. So to be safe, we say you can expect them to shrink 1" to 3". I just checked with a buddy of mine and he says he's done this -- actually sat in his bathtub in cold water, wearing the jeans, and, then, hung them up to dry. He said his shrank -- is that a word? -- about 1/4". I'm guessing the water is the issue, so over time, you could probably expect shrinkage of more than 1/4". Good luck. Let me know how it turns out.

Danilo valdez (not verified) - Feb 28 2011
Thanks for these tips, i do handwashing..i change in uniform at work, and my 501's. So, i only wear my jeans from home to work and from work to home, they are not that filthy. So i try to wash them once a week, at least. ~Dvaldez/philippines

Justin (not verified) - Nov 11 2010

So, for this technique, when they say buy jeans "in your true size" - does this mean that you would NOT size them up as it says on the tag and get one that just fit ?

Editor's note: Hi, Justin! You've got it right. Buy the jeans as if you were going to walk out of the store in them and not expect them to shrink. Since you won't be washing them in warm or hot water -- right??? -- and since you will only air dry them -- right??? -- as opposed to putting them in a heated gas or electric dryer, they'll be perfect...and only moreso over time! I just bought a pair of Levi's® 505s™ in Cone denim, and am starting the same process. It was difficult for me to not want to buy a larger size, but I did it! Let me know how it goes for you.