How to Wash Jeans

Jeans require special attention, even after the first use. If you want to enjoy your denim favorites for years to come, then the key to long life is in the laundry.

Follow these steps to keep your jeans looking as good as new:

Ideally, wash your jeans for the first time by hand. Turn them inside out, and either wash them in the sink or in the bathtub, where they can be placed down flat.

  • 1. Make sure you read the label before washing. Wash your jeans separately from other items if it’s the first few washes to avoid dye transfer.
  • 2. If your jeans are machine washable, then turn them inside out before placing in the washer.
  • 3. As a general rule, use cold water. It’s fine to wash denim in the washing machine on a gentle cycle with other deep-color clothing.
  • 4. Dry your jeans according to the instructions on the fabric care label.

One secret to prolonging the wear of jeans between washings is to hang them when you are not wearing them. It will help the fibers recover from stress and stretch, especially in the knees and the seat.

Jeans are a wardrobe staple, and a little care will go a long way.

SOME MYTHS ABOUT DENIM

Denims may be the most comfortable clothes people own. But people don’t know how take care of them properly? Here, are some of the most common misconceptions about this true-blue fabric.

Like a best friend, a well-fitting pair of jeans should be treasured. But while there are lots of myths about how to prolong the life of denim, not all of the advice will actually add extra wear to your favorite pair. Here, we share laundry tips on caring for denim.

Myth 1: Freezing jeans can rid them of bacteria.

False. While some germs die off in the freezer, the hardier ones live on. And since most of the germs on your jeans come from you, once your body temperature warms the fabric, the germs can come back just like before.

Myth 2: If you must wash your jeans, do so sparingly.

True.  Washing your jeans rarely can help preserve their shape. This is especially true of denim that hasn’t been prewashed, which takes longer to mould to your body’s contours. When it comes time for laundering, always wash jeans inside-out in cold water—to preserve their color. Lay them flat on a towel to dry.

Myth 3: Never put your jeans in the dryer.

False. If your jeans are stretched out, a quick tumble in the dryer can help them regain their shape. Follow the care labels and wash care instructions and remove the jeans when they are slightly damp to prevent unwanted creasing.

Myth 4: The more stretch, the better.

Maybe. It really depends on your body type and how “clingy” you want your denim to be. Look for jeans with a low Spandex-to- cotton ratio (2% to 5% Spandex to 98% to 95% cotton), which will give you a look that hugs your shape without making you feel like a sausage.