Yes, you can put wet jeans in a dryer to shrink them. The heat from the dryer can cause the fibers in the jeans to contract, resulting in a slight shrinkage of the fabric. However, it's important to be cautious and follow some guidelines to avoid damaging the jeans or getting an undesirable result:
Check the care label: Before attempting to shrink your jeans in the dryer, check the care label on the inside of the jeans to see if they are safe for machine drying. Some jeans may have specific instructions that advise against machine drying to prevent damage.
Consider the material: Jeans are typically made of denim, which is a sturdy fabric. However, excessive heat can cause fading or wear on the fabric over time. If your jeans have a lot of stretch or are made of a delicate material, it's best to avoid using high heat in the dryer to prevent damage.
Wash the jeans first: If your jeans are not already wet, wash them in cold water before putting them in the dryer. Wetting the jeans will ensure that they absorb moisture and shrink more evenly in the dryer.
Use low heat: To minimize the risk of damage to your jeans, set the dryer to a low heat setting. High heat can cause excessive shrinkage, fading, and may even lead to the jeans becoming misshapen.
Dry in intervals: Instead of putting the jeans in the dryer for an extended period, check on them periodically during the drying process. Remove them from the dryer when they reach the desired level of shrinkage.
Consider air drying: If you are unsure about using the dryer, or if your jeans are made of delicate material, you can consider air drying them instead. Lay the jeans flat on a towel or a drying rack and allow them to air dry naturally.
Keep in mind that while the dryer can cause some shrinkage, it may not dramatically alter the size of the jeans. If your jeans are significantly larger than you'd like, it's best to have them altered by a professional tailor for a more precise fit.