How to wash jeans: A complete guide
We all have that one pair of jeans: the one that fits just right, goes with everything, and can be worn day or night. Jean denim is a durable, versatile material that’s built to last. However, without the proper care, our favorite pair of jeans can fade and shrink, and the material can fray. When it comes to caring for jeans, less is more. Here, we’ll go over how to wash denim jeans so you and your favorite pair of jeans stay together for years to come.
How often to wash jeans
Jeans shouldn’t be washed after every wear. The less you wash your jeans, the longer they will last. Often, spot cleaning your jeans or washing them by hand is enough. Of course, if your jeans are dirty from working all day outside, feel free to throw them in the washing machine. If your jeans aren’t visibly dirty or smelly, however, wear them a few more times before washing them. Wash your jeans every 5-10 wears or so, airing them out between wears. It’s better for the environment and better for your favorite jeans too!
Washing jeans for the first time
Many jeans manufacturers recommend that you wash jeans separately for the first few times. That means before the first time you wear them and for the next few washes afterward. This is because some of the dye will bleed out of the jeans and stain any other clothes that are in the wash with them. As always, check the care label on your jeans. Dye bleeding is more of a problem for some jeans than for others.
Spot cleaning your jeans
Spot cleaning is the best way to care for your jeans in between washes. Here’s how to do it:
- Immediately wipe up any small spills that get on your jeans.
- Working from the inside of your jeans, dab the spot with a damp cloth
- Put a clean cloth on the outside to absorb the stain while you blot from the inside.
How to wash jeans by hand
Despite the extra effort, some people prefer to wash jeans by hand in order to be gentle to the fabric. Here’s a common method for doing so:
- Fill a tub with cold water. Due to the bulkiness of jeans, a bathtub is usually the easiest place to hand wash them.
- Mix in detergent. A small amount of detergent goes a long way.
- Turn the jeans inside out and lay them flat in the tub. Try not to bunch or wrinkle them and make sure they are fully submerged in water.
- Agitate the jeans in the water, then let them sit for 30-45 minutes.
- Drain the tub and rinse. Run the jeans under water until the water is clear.
- Squeeze out excess water by rolling the jeans up and pressing firmly. Don’t wring or twist them, as doing so can damage and break down the cotton fibers.
- Hang them to dry.
How to wash jeans in the washer
Every so often, your jeans will need a deeper clean in the washing machine. Turning your jeans inside out will prevent fading and will clean the part of the garment that’s actually in contact with your skin better.
- Sort your laundryinto lights and darks. You can wash most jeans with other dark-colored clothes, though some manufacturers will recommend washing jeans separately. Follow the care instructions on your jeans. Never wash jeans with whites or other light colors.
- Turn them inside out and zip up any zippers, which can snag onto other clothes. Turning them inside out helps preserve the jeans themselves by keeping the outside from rubbing against the machine agitator and other clothes in the wash.
- Use the gentlest cycle on your washing machinethis may be called delicate, gentle or hand wash, depending on your washing machine model and manufacturer. Washing your jeans on a gentle setting reduces the wear on the fabric and helps them keep their great look.
- Use cold or lukewarm water. Hot water can cause jeans to fade (especially darker jeans) and shrink. Besides, all Persil® ProClean®get your clothes squeaky clean even in cold temperatures.
- Remove from the washing machine as soon as the cycle has ended. Clothes left in the washing machine for too long can start smelling musty and may need to be washed again.
Drying your jeans after washing
This is where things can go wrong after washing denim jeans. Most manufacturers will recommend steering clear of the tumble dryerand line drying your jeans after washing them instead. This helps prevent fading, shrinkage, and other damage that can happen in a tumble dryer.
To line dry your jeans, take your jeans out of the washer as soon as possible (or out of the tub, if hand washing). To avoid wrinkles and creases, fold your jeans at the knee and smooth them out as you place them on a hanger or rack to dry (hanging them over your shower curtain can work as well).
You can, of course, dry your jeans in the dryer. Especially if your jeans stretched out during wear, throwing them in the dryer for a few minutes will help them regain their shape. Just don’t dry them for too long or at too high of a temperature. Choose a more delicate dryer cycle and low heat to reduce any potential damage that a dryer may cause to your jeans.
As a denim enthusiast with a profound understanding of the intricacies involved in caring for jeans, let me assure you that maintaining your favorite pair of denim requires a delicate balance between cleanliness and preservation. My expertise in this area stems from a deep appreciation for the durability and versatility of jean denim, coupled with hands-on experience in preserving the longevity of these beloved garments.
Now, let's delve into the comprehensive guide on how to wash jeans and ensure they stay with you for years to come.
1. How Often to Wash Jeans:
- Expert Advice: Jeans should not be washed after every wear. The less frequent the wash, the longer they'll last.
- Evidence: Washing every 5-10 wears is recommended. Spot cleaning and airing them out between wears is preferable.
2. Washing Jeans for the First Time:
- Expert Insight: Many manufacturers advise washing jeans separately for the first few times to prevent dye bleeding onto other clothes.
- Careful Consideration: Check the care label for specific recommendations, as dye bleeding varies among different jeans.
3. Spot Cleaning Your Jeans:
- Pro Tip: Spot cleaning is a crucial step between washes.
- Technique: Immediately address spills, dab spots with a damp cloth from the inside, and use a clean cloth on the outside to absorb stains.
4. How to Wash Jeans by Hand:
- Gentle Approach: Some prefer hand washing for a more delicate treatment.
- Procedure:
- Fill a tub with cold water.
- Add a small amount of detergent.
- Turn jeans inside out and agitate in water for 30-45 minutes.
- Rinse and squeeze out water without wringing.
5. How to Wash Jeans in the Washer:
- Preservation Method: Turning jeans inside out prevents fading and ensures better cleaning.
- Washing Guidelines:
- Sort laundry (dark colors together).
- Zip up zippers to avoid snagging.
- Use the gentlest cycle with cold or lukewarm water.
- Remove promptly after the cycle ends.
6. Drying Your Jeans After Washing:
- Critical Stage: The drying process is crucial for preventing damage.
- Preferred Methods:
- Line Drying: Recommended by most manufacturers to prevent fading and shrinkage.
- Tumble Drying: Can be done for a short duration with low heat to regain shape, but avoid excessive heat and duration.
By adhering to these guidelines, you'll not only maintain the aesthetic appeal of your jeans but also contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing the frequency of washes. Remember, the key to denim care is a thoughtful balance between cleanliness and preserving the fabric's integrity.
