How to Wash Denim Jeans

Denim jeans are a wardrobe staple, beloved for their versatility and durability. However, proper washing techniques are essential to maintain their quality and appearance. Understanding how to care for denim can prolong its life and ensure it continues to look fabulous wear after wear.

Myths About Denim Washing

Many myths surround the washing of denim. Some people believe that jeans should never be washed, while others insist on frequent washing. The truth lies somewhere in between, depending on the type of denim and personal preference.

Types of Denim:

Raw Denim: Raw denim is untreated and often unwashed. This type retains the indigo dye and can fade uniquely over time, developing a personalised look. It requires special care during washing to maintain its character.

Washed Denim: Washed denim has undergone a washing process to achieve a softer feel and lighter colour. It’s generally easier to care for, but it’s still important to follow specific washing guidelines.

Stretch Denim: Stretch denim contains elastane or spandex, giving it flexibility and comfort. Washing stretch denim requires careful attention to avoid losing its shape and elasticity.

Selvedge Denim: Selvedge denim is woven on vintage shuttle looms, resulting in a tightly woven edge. It’s typically more durable and may require specific washing methods to maintain its quality.

How to Wash Denim Jeans?

Check the Tag

Read the label on your jeans to see if there are any specific jean washing tips that you need to follow. Some jeans should be washed alone on the first wash, or washed very rarely. Make sure to follow the recommended care instructions to prolong the life of your jeans.

Be Gentle

To keep your jeans looking the same way they did when you purchased them, wash the jeans on the gentle cycle. This reduces the wear and tear on your jeans and allows the colors and design to stay intact.

Use a mild detergent (such as Woolite) when you wash your jeans.
Never use bleach or use detergents with bleach.
You can use a mild fabric softener if you want your jeans a bit softer.

Use Cold Water

Fill the washing machine with cold water. Lukewarm water can also be used if necessary..but is not ideal. Never wash the jeans in hot water. Hot water can cause color loss in jeans, especially darker jeans. Hot water can also shrink the fabric.

Protect the Color

Turn your jeans inside out. Washing jeans can be abrasive to fabrics. Not only do clothes rub against one another, but the detergent, along with zippers, buttons, and snaps, can be damaging to the color and fabric.

Prefer to leave the laundry to the pros? We can help!

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Skip the Dryer (Mostly)

Line dry the jeans. Do not tumble your jeans in a dryer. Avoid over-drying your jeans to prevent shrinkage and the loss of color to the fabric.

If you want to speed up the drying process, tumble them on a delicate cycle with low heat. Take them out while still slightly damp and let them finish drying on a rack or a line. Before you place the jeans on the line, gently stretch the seams, waistband and hems to help avoid shrinkage as they finish drying.

Hang Them Up

Fold your jeans once at the knee level and hang them on a clothes hanger or rack to dry. Over-folding while the jeans are drying can cause wrinkles and creases.

How Often Should I Wash My Jeans?

Jeans don’t need to be laundered as often as most other clothing. Most experts recommend washing them every 4-6 weeks (or 4-6 wears). In between washes, be sure to air the jeans out by hanging them up in a well ventilated area for about 24 hours after each wear.

Dealing with Common Issues:

Fading: Fading can occur over time, especially with frequent washing. To mitigate this, wash jeans infrequently and use cold water to preserve colour.

Odours: If jeans develop an unpleasant odour, try airing them out instead of washing. Hanging them in a well-ventilated area can help eliminate smells without needing a wash.

Stains and Spots: For stubborn stains, apply a small amount of detergent directly to the spot before washing. For grease stains, sprinkle baking soda to absorb the oil before treating.

Conclusion

Caring for denim jeans doesn’t have to be complicated. By understanding the different types of denim and following proper washing techniques, it’s possible to maintain their quality and longevity. Embracing these tips will ensure that your jeans remain a staple in your wardrobe for years to come.

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Lyndsee Onstott

Lyndsee Onstott is the Marketing Manager at Laundry Care, with a deep-rooted history as one of the company’s original care providers. Her journey from hands-on laundry care to strategic marketing gives her unique insights into the service and its customers. Lyndsee's commitment to delivering convenience and quality has helped Laundry Care become a trusted service for busy professionals and families nationwide. Today, she combines her firsthand experience with a passion for customer-focused marketing, ensuring that Laundry Care meets the evolving needs of its clients.