Item guides

Buying Raw Denim? Check Sanforization and Shrinkage in Six Steps

Raw jeans do not all shrink by the same amount. Levi's identifies its Shrink-to-Fit styles as not preshrunk, while Nudie Jeans says its jeans are sanforized. Check the exact garment and brand's size, shrinkage and care details instead of assuming every raw denim is the same.

4 min read2026-10-24

Stridewise tutorial on raw denim sizing and sanforization

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01

What you need

Item's full product description
Manufacturer's shrinkage and care guidance
Well-fitting pair of jeans and tape measure
Customer service contact if details are absent

02

How to

1. Read the listing for terms such as raw, unwashed or Shrink-to-Fit, without assuming those words alone prove the fabric is unsanforized.
2. Look separately for sanforized or preshrunk treatment. Nudie Jeans states its own jeans are sanforized, demonstrating why product-specific checks matter.
3. Check shrinkage and drying instructions for the exact model. Levi's describes its Shrink-to-Fit styles as raw denim that was not preshrunk.
4. Lay well-fitting jeans flat to measure the waistband and inseam, then compare with the exact model's garment measurements. A body-size chart is different from flat garment measurements.
5. Check the garment care label for water temperature, drying method and possible dye transfer. Levi's generally suggests cold water and air drying to minimize shrinkage.
6. Ask the retailer or manufacturer before ordering when treatment or post-wash sizing is unclear. Do not depend on shrinkage to correct an otherwise unsuitable size.

One more tip

Do not apply Levi's sizing allowances or Nudie's shrinkage estimates to another brand. 'Raw' and 'unsanforized' are not interchangeable labels. The exact product's treatment and care instructions matter most.

03

Photos, videos, and links

OriginalLevi's shrinkage and size guidanceLevi's — Shrinkage and Shrink-to-Fit jeans

OriginalNudie Jeans sanforization guideNudie Jeans — Are your jeans sanforized?

# raw denim # sanforized # jeans fit

Sources and media

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