Your guide to washing jeans

Jeans are a wardrobe staple for many, but keeping them clean, fresh, and long-lasting is often a challenge.

In this comprehensive guide on how to wash jeans, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step process to help you better care for your favourite pairs of jeans, from determining when to wash them to maintaining their appearance for years to come.

How Often Should You Wash Your Jeans?

Denim experts recommend washing jeans only when necessary to maintain their appearance and prolong their lifespan. Overwashing can lead to fading, shrinkage, and loss of shape.

Before washing your jeans, follow these steps:

• Check the Care Label – Always read the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Turn Inside Out – This helps protect the outer fabric and preserve color.
• Close Zippers and Buttons – Fasten all closures to prevent snagging and maintain shape
• Spot Clean Stains – Use a mild detergent or stain remover to treat specific areas.

Washing Methods

For most jeans, machine washing is suitable:

• Use Cold Water – Helps prevent fading and shrinking.
• Select Gentle Cycle – Reduces wear and tear on the fabric.
• Mild Detergent – Opt for detergents designed for dark colours.
• Avoid Fabric Softeners – They can break down fibres and affect elasticity.
• Wash jeans with similar colours – this helps prevent dye transfer.

Hand washing is gentler and ideal for delicate or raw denim:

• Fill a Tub with Cold Water – Add a small amount of mild detergent.
• Submerge Jeans – Gently agitate the water and let them soak for 15–30 minutes.
• Rinse Thoroughly – Use cold water to remove all detergent.
• Press Out Water – Avoid wringing; instead, press the water out gently.

Drying Your Jeans

Proper drying is crucial to maintain the fit and appearance of your jeans:

• Air Dry – Hang jeans by the waistband in a shaded area to prevent sun fading.
• Avoid Tumble Drying – High heat can cause shrinkage and damage fibers.
• Lay Flat for Heavy Denim – Prevents stretching and maintains shape.

Special Considerations

Raw or Selvedge Denim

• Minimal Washing – Wash only when necessary to develop unique fades.
• Cold Soak – Before the first wear, soak in cold water to set the dye and reduce shrinkage.
• Avoid Detergents Initially – Use plain water for the first few washes.

Stretch Denim (Denim with elastane or spandex)

• Regular Washing – Helps the fabric return to its original shape.
• Avoid High Heat – Preserves elasticity.

Does freezing jeans kill bacteria and remove odours?

Placing jeans in the freezer does not effectively kill bacteria or remove odours. Freezing only inhibits bacterial growth and doesn’t kill most bacteria, it just slows them down temporarily. Some bacteria are adapted to survive freezing temperatures.

Freezing also doesn’t remove the dirt, oils, and dead skin cells that serve as food for bacteria. To properly clean and sanitize jeans, washing is necessary.

The Bottom Line

Proper care extends the life of your jeans and keeps them looking great. By washing them sparingly, using appropriate methods, and avoiding harmful practices, you can enjoy your favorite denim for years to come.

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