Fabric Shrinkage Calculator

Calculate lengthwise and widthwise shrinkage and determine the measurements needed before washing.

1 Fabric Information
Measure the same fabric sample before and after the washing or finishing process. Use consistent reference points and the same measurement unit for both readings.
2 Lengthwise Shrinkage
3 Widthwise Shrinkage
Formula: Shrinkage (%) = (Before-wash measurement − After-wash measurement) ÷ Before-wash measurement × 100. Negative shrinkage indicates growth or expansion.
4 Optional Garment Measurement
Enter the desired post-wash garment length.
Enter the desired post-wash garment width.
Used to flag shrinkage above your chosen limit.

Shrinkage Test Results

Fabric measurement analysis

Lengthwise Shrinkage
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Widthwise Shrinkage
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Average Dimensional Change
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Average of lengthwise and widthwise percentages
Length Before Washing
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Length After Washing
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Width After Washing
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Required Length Before Washing
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To achieve desired finished length
Required Width Before Washing
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To achieve desired finished width
Shrinkage Limit Check
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Detailed Measurement Report
Measurement Before Wash After Wash Change Change (%)
Length — — — —
Width — — — —
Important: The required pre-wash dimensions are estimates based on the shrinkage observed in your sample. For positive shrinkage, the formula is: Required pre-wash measurement = Desired finished measurement ÷ (1 − shrinkage rate). If the sample grows after washing, the calculation accounts for that expansion. Confirm results with repeated tests under your actual washing, drying and finishing conditions.

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