Denim is one of the most beloved and versatile fabrics in the world. From your favorite pair of Jennifer's to that timeless denim jacket, taking care of denim properly can dramatically extend its life, preserve its color, and maintain that perfect fit.
Whether you’re a denim aficionado or just want your jeans to last longer, this guide will walk you through the best practices for caring for your denim.
Why Proper Denim Care Matters
Denim is durable, but it’s not invincible. Improper washing, harsh detergents, or over-drying can:
• Cause excessive fading
• Shrink your jeans
• Break down the fabric prematurely
• Lead to warping and loss of shape
By following a few simple care steps, you can keep your denim looking great for years.
General Care Tips for All Denim
Wash Less Frequently
Jeans don’t need to be washed after every wear. In fact, the less you wash them, the better they’ll look and feel overtime. Unless they’re visibly dirty or have an odor, hold off on tossing those Dillon's or Brooks in the laundry.
Pro tip: Air them out after each wear or toss them in the freezer overnight to kill bacteria and odors.
Wash in Cold Water
Hot water can cause shrinkage and weaken the fabric. Always wash jeans in cold water to preserve the color and structure of the fabric.
Use Mild Detergent
Skip the bleach and opt for a gentle, color-safe detergent — ideally one made for dark or delicate fabrics. This helps maintain the original dye and integrity of the fibers.
Turn Inside Out Before Washing
Flipping jeans inside out minimizes friction on the outer surface and protects against fading and abrasion during the wash cycle.
Avoid the Dryer
Heat from dryers can break down elasticity and shrink denim. Instead, hang your Barstow Denim Jacket or Rox Denim Dress to air dry naturally.
Bonus Tips & Tricks for Longer-Lasting Denim
Spot Clean When Possible
For minor spills or dirt, skip the full wash. Dab with a damp cloth and mild soap to treat the area without putting your jeans through a wash cycle.
Steam for a Refresh
Use a handheld steamer to freshen up your jeans between washes. It helps remove wrinkles and odors without wearing down the fabric.
Store Smartly
Fold your jeans instead of hanging them to avoid unwanted stretching in the waistband or knees. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
Avoid Over-Wearing
If you wear jeans every day, consider rotating between a few pairs. This allows the fabric to breathe and recover, reducing stress on seams and improving longevity.
Denim Care Myths — Busted
Myth 1: You Should Never Wash Jeans
Truth: While it’s true that less washing is better, never washing your jeans can lead to bacteria buildup and odor. Washing occasionally — and carefully — is essential.
Myth 2: The Freezer Will Clean Your Jeans
Truth: Freezing jeans can reduce odor-causing bacteria but doesn’t actually clean them or remove dirt. It’s a good trick between washes, but it’s not a replacement for actual cleaning.
Myth 3: You Must Wash New Jeans Before Wearing
Truth: This depends on the fabric. For most mass-market jeans, it’s not necessary. In fact, wearing them first helps the fabric mold to your shape before any shrinkage occurs from washing.
Myth 4: All Denim Shrinks the Same
Truth: Pre-washed denim won’t shrink much, but untreated denim might. Always check your label and wash accordingly.
Handy Denim Hacks You’ll Love
Tight Jeans? Try the Bathtub Trick
Put on your too-snug jeans and soak in warm water for 15–20 minutes. Wear them until mostly dry to stretch them back out to your shape.
Loose Waistband? Use a Hot Wash & Dry (Carefully!)
To slightly shrink a stretched waistband, wash your jeans in warm water and dry them on medium heat — just be careful not to overdo it.
Fix a Stuck Zipper with Candle Wax
Rub a little candle wax or a graphite pencil on a stubborn zipper to help it glide smoothly again.
Use Vinegar in the Wash
Add a half cup of white vinegar to your wash cycle (no detergent) to lock in dark dye and keep colors from bleeding.
Deodorize with Baking Soda
Sprinkle baking soda inside jeans and let them sit overnight to absorb odors before shaking it out or vacuuming with a hose attachment.
Final Thoughts
Taking care of your denim doesn’t have to be complicated — a little mindfulness goes a long way. With just a few simple adjustments and a few clever tricks, you’ll enjoy denim that fits better, lasts longer, and tells the story of your lifestyle over time.
So go ahead, skip that weekly wash. Your jeans will thank you.
