Your favourite pair of low rise jeans deserves proper care to maintain their fit, colour, and comfort over years of wear. Denim is a remarkably durable fabric, but improper washing and storage can lead to premature fading, shrinkage, and loss of shape. This guide covers everything you need to know to keep your jeans looking their best.
How Often Should You Wash Your Jeans?
The denim industry has shifted dramatically on washing recommendations over the past decade. While previous generations washed jeans after every wear, denim experts now recommend a more conservative approach. Washing too frequently breaks down fibres, fades colour, and can compromise the fit of your jeans.
As a general guideline:
- Everyday casual jeans: Every 5-10 wears, or when visibly dirty or smelly
- Raw or selvedge denim: As infrequently as possible in the first 6 months to develop natural fading patterns
- Stretch denim: Every 4-6 wears, as these tend to lose shape faster and need the reset a wash provides
- Light-coloured denim: Every 3-5 wears, as stains are more visible
To freshen jeans without washing, hang them outside for a few hours to air out, or place them in the freezer overnight in a sealed bag. Spot-clean any stains with a damp cloth and mild soap.
The Right Way to Wash Jeans
Preparation Steps
Before washing your jeans, take a few minutes to prepare them properly. Turn your jeans inside out to protect the outer surface from friction and fading. Zip up all zippers and button all buttons to prevent snagging and maintain the shape of closures. Check all pockets and remove any items that could damage the fabric or other clothing.
Water Temperature
Cold water is essential for denim care. Hot water causes denim to shrink and accelerates colour loss. Use the coldest setting on your washing machine for best results. Cold water is also more environmentally friendly and saves energy, aligning with sustainable laundry practices.
Detergent Selection
Choose a mild, colour-safe detergent without bleach or optical brighteners. Specialised denim detergents are available and can help maintain indigo dye, but a gentle regular detergent works well too. Use less detergent than recommended on the packageāabout half the usual amount is sufficient for denim, which doesn't require heavy cleaning agents.
The gentler you are with your jeans during washing, the longer they'll maintain their colour and shape. When in doubt, err on the side of less washing, colder water, and gentler detergent.
Washing Methods
Machine Washing
If using a washing machine, select a gentle or delicate cycle with cold water. Wash jeans with similar dark colours to prevent colour transfer. Avoid overloading the machineājeans need room to move freely during the wash cycle. Consider using a mesh laundry bag for added protection, especially for jeans with embellishments or distressing.
Hand Washing
For premium denim or jeans you particularly value, hand washing offers the gentlest clean. Fill a bathtub or large basin with cold water and add a small amount of mild detergent. Submerge your jeans and gently agitate them by hand for 10-15 minutes. Let them soak for an additional 20-30 minutes, then drain and refill with clean water to rinse. Repeat rinsing until no soap remains.
Spot Cleaning
For small stains, spot cleaning eliminates the need for a full wash. Dampen the stained area with cold water and apply a small amount of mild soap or stain remover. Gently rub the area with your fingers or a soft cloth, working from the outside of the stain toward the centre to prevent spreading. Rinse with cold water and allow to air dry.
Never use bleach on denim, even white jeans. Avoid fabric softeners, which coat fibres and can make denim feel stiff after multiple uses. Don't wring or twist jeans to remove water, as this can permanently distort the fabric.
Drying Your Jeans Properly
Air Drying (Recommended)
Air drying is the best method for maintaining the shape, fit, and colour of your jeans. After washing, lay jeans flat or hang them by the waistband or belt loops in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, which can cause fading. Reshape the waistband and legs while damp to help them dry in the correct form.
For faster drying without a machine, roll jeans in a clean, dry towel and press firmly to absorb excess water before hanging. In humid climates like parts of Australia, use a fan or air conditioning to speed drying and prevent musty odours.
Machine Drying
If you must use a dryer, choose the lowest heat setting or a no-heat tumble dry option. Remove jeans while still slightly damp and allow them to finish drying naturally. This prevents over-drying, which can make denim stiff and cause unnecessary shrinkage. High heat is particularly damaging to stretch denim, as it can break down the elastane fibres.
Maintaining Shape and Fit
Denim naturally stretches with wear, typically by 1-3 centimetres in the waist and seat after a full day of wear. This is normal and not a sign of poor quality. To restore the original fit:
- A brief wash cycle helps "reset" stretched denim
- For targeted shrinkage, dampen specific areas and allow to air dry
- Store jeans folded rather than hanging for extended periods, as hanging can stretch the waist and legs
Storage Solutions
Proper storage extends the life of your denim and keeps it ready to wear:
Folding vs. Hanging
For long-term storage, fold jeans neatly along the seams and store flat in a drawer or on a shelf. If you prefer hanging, use clamp-style hangers that grip the waistband or hem, distributing weight evenly. Avoid wire hangers, which can create creases or marks.
Protecting from Moths and Moisture
Store jeans in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If storing for extended periods, consider using cedar blocks or lavender sachets as natural moth deterrents. Avoid plastic bags for long-term storage, as they trap moisture and can cause mildew. Breathable cotton storage bags are a better option.
Special Care Situations
Removing Stubborn Stains
For oil-based stains, sprinkle cornstarch or baking soda on the stain and let it sit overnight to absorb the oil before brushing off and washing. For ink stains, apply rubbing alcohol to a cotton ball and dab gently. For mud, let it dry completely before brushing off the dried material, then wash as usual.
Dealing with Odours
If jeans develop an odour before they need washing, try hanging them in fresh air or misting lightly with a mixture of water and white vinegar. Some denim enthusiasts swear by the freezer methodāsealing jeans in a plastic bag and freezing overnight to kill odour-causing bacteria.
By following these care guidelines, your low rise jeans will maintain their perfect fit, rich colour, and comfortable feel for years of wear. Remember that denim ages beautifully when properly maintained, developing a unique character that becomes part of your personal style.