How to Wash Jeans the Right Way – Keep Them Looking New Longer

Washing jeans the wrong way can ruin their fit and fade their color fast. This quick guide shows you how to wash jeans properly to keep them fresh, clean, and long-lasting.

Jeans are a staple of every wardrobe, a piece of sheer comfort and class. A perfect pair of jeans is not only a style investment but an excellent investment. But very often we toss it into the washing machine without giving it a second thought. Although jeans take care of us like a best friend by providing us care and comfort.

No matter, if it’s your well-worn favorite pair that’s become like a second skin or those new, stiff dark wash jeans you’re currently breaking into, the knowledge of how to clean jeans properly is essential. It’s not merely a matter of cleaning them; it’s a matter of maintaining their fit, color, and eventually, their longevity. Whether you are washing them at our Self-service laundromat, located at all key points or at home you must know the basics. 

At CleanFold laundry we understand the nitty gritties of fabric care and are here to help you understand the basics of it. We will guide you step-by-step on how to wash jeans the right way. Come let’s explore with us. 

Why Does How To Wash Jeans Even Matter?

You might be wondering, it’s just a pair of jeans, what’s the big deal in washing it? Just throw them in the washer. But, here comes the revelation. While it may appear simple, denim is an odd thread. It’s woven in a very particular fashion that provides it with its signature strength and durability. But this same weave can be prone to shrinking, fading, and even picking up unsightly creases if not treated gently in the wash.

Washing them incorrectly can result in:

Fading

With dark wash or raw denim, hard detergents and hot water can remove the dye, resulting in a dull, washed-out appearance.

Shrinking

High heat in washing and drying can make the denim fibers shrink, changing the fit of your favorite jeans.

Damage to Elasticity

Most modern jeans have stretch fibers (such as spandex or elastane). Washing them incorrectly can weaken these fibers, making your jeans lose shape.

Wear and Tear

Too much agitation and friction can cause the denim fibers to break down over time, causing holes and tears (obviously that’s not what you’re aiming for!).

How Often Should You Wash Jeans Without Damaging Them?

Let’s bust a myth right now, you don’t have to wash your jeans every single time you wear them. Rather fewer washes are better, as excessive washing could lead to whitening the color, shrinking the fabric, and loosening the stitches. Here is a simple guideline that you can follow as a best way to wash jeans:

  • Wash your jeans every 5 to 10 wears.

  • If they look dirty or smell bad, go ahead and wash them.

  • If you spot stains or dirt, then it is time to wash it.

For expert care, CleanFold Laundry recommends washing jeans every 5–10 wears.

Exceptions:

  • Raw Denim: If you’re into raw denim, you’re probably looking for character-building fades and whiskers that come through a lot of wear without getting cleaned. Most raw denim wearers go months, sometimes a year or more, before they wash their jeans for the first time. When they do wash, it’s usually a gentle hand wash.

Stains: If you spill on your jeans, spot clean right away. Don’t let stains set, as they are very difficult to remove afterward.

The Ideal Way To Wash Jeans - Start With The Label

It is highly recommended that you start by carefully going through the attached label as different brands have different blends and treatments that must be considered before washing them. But, in case you have lost the label, don’t worry as it happens very often with many people, we have covered a general list of rules that will guide you through the process.

The Best Way To Wash Jeans - A Step-By-Step Guide

Enlisted below are some of the practical step-by-step guides. Follow these steps for the perfect machine wash. 

Always Wash Your Jeans Inside Out

This tiny step is unarguably the best tip to extend the life of your jeans. When washing jeans inside out, you are safeguarding the dye and finish on the exterior from fading and stretching. It also removes sweat and body oils from the fabric’s interior.

Use Mild Or Cold Water

Cold water is easier on types of denim, although hot water is efficient in removing stains and dirt but it could lead to shrinkage and color fading. 

Cold water also saves energy, so your washing machine is both fabric-gentle and earth-friendly.

Choose a Gentle Detergent

Harsh detergents can ruin denim’s texture and stretch. Opt for a mild or color-safe detergent, particularly for dark wash or raw denim.

Wash on a Gentle Cycle

If you’re machine washing, select a gentle or delicate cycle. Too much agitation can twist, stretch, or stress the fabric.

Do Not Tumble Dry

As it could lead to the hardening of fabric rather than soft and wearable. The ideal way to dry a pair of jeans is to air-dry them. It would help them retain their shape and color. 

Empty The Pockets

Check for coins, keys, or anything else that could lead to damage to your machine or the jeans.  

Zip The Zippers, Button The Buttons

This helps in keeping other clothes snagging with the jeans and aids in maintaining the shape of your garment. It also prevents the damage that can be caused because of open zippers and buttons in the machine.

Wash Jeans With Similar Colored articles of clothing

Remember this is the most important step, always wash dark-colored denim jeans with dark colored clothes and light ones with light colored clothes. Otherwise, a disaster would be waiting for you whenever you open the lid of the machine. 

Wash With Similar Kind Of Fabrics

Although this step might be optional, it is considered ideal to wash jeans with items that are made up of heavier fabrics, such as towels, etc. as delicate clothing might get damaged due to the heavier weight of denim.

Hand Wash Jeans For The Ultimate Care

For your very favorite pairs, raw denim, or just if you simply desire the most gentle clean possible, it is a great skill to know how to hand wash jeans.

Fill a Tub or Basin 

Place a clean tub or big basin with cool or lukewarm water.

Add Detergent 

Put in a little mild liquid detergent and spread it out evenly.

Soak Jeans

Flip your jeans over and soak them in the water completely.

Gentle Agitation 

Gently agitate the water using your hands, letting the detergent seep into the fabric. Avoid twisting or harsh scrubbing. Soak for 15-30 minutes.

Rinse Vigorously

Drain the soap water. Fill the tub again with clean, cool water and press the jeans gently to let out suds. Continue this operation until the water is clear and all the detergent has been washed away.

Drain Excess Water 

Squeeze out excess water carefully, but do not wring or twist violently, as fibers may be destroyed. Roll them in a fresh towel to dry more water.

Air Dry 

Use the above air-drying directions. Do Not tumble dry to avoid shrinking and hardening of the jeans.

Conclusion

Knowing how to wash your jeans properly is one of the utmost life skills that everyone must be aware of. It not only helps you feel smarter but saves you money, assists in keeping your style game up, and makes your life easier in general.

Be it washing jeans inside out, finding the optimal method for washing jeans, discovering when to hand wash, and how to make jeans last longer, it all equates to denim that wears longer, fits better, and looks like new every time you wear them.

And when in doubt? You’ve got a friendly neighborhood laundry team right here, simply reach to our laundromat or call us at +1 (321)-222-7176

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bleach while washing a pair of jeans?

No, you must avoid using bleach as it could destroy the color and give it a faded and distressed look.

Are detergent pods safe to be used on a pair of jeans?

Yes, detergent pods are safe to be used on jeans, if they are dye-free and fragrance-free.

Will freezing jeans help them to get cleaner?

Honestly speaking, No, it would only reduce odor but does not kill bacteria. Also, it won't help in cleaning the visible dirt spots and food spills.

Can I use Vinegar when washing jeans?

Yes, Vinegar helps in blocking the color bleed while neutralizing the odor.