Replacing a slack elastic

Short answer: If the waistband is slack but the fabric is intact, the elastic can be replaced. It takes twenty minutes and needs a safety pin and a piece of new elastic.

When it is worth doing

If the fabric is still good and only the elastic is spent, a replacement gives the garment several more years. If the fabric is also thin or faded, it is not worth the work.

How to do it

Unpick a few stitches in the channel, attach a safety pin to the old elastic and pull it out while tying the new one to the end. The new one then comes through with it. Sew the channel closed again. See bamboo nightwear for women.

Where it is easiest

Sleep trousers, joggers and anything with a channel are easy. Underwear with sewn in elastic is harder and is best left to an alterations shop. See bamboo sleep trousers for women and bamboo sweatpants for men.

Frequently asked questions

Which elastic should you use

The same width as the old one. Measure it before buying new.

How long should the new one be

Measure your own waist and subtract three to five centimetres so it holds without pinching.

Can you prevent elastic from going slack

Wash cool and avoid hot tumbling. Heat is what destroys elastic.