How to Wash & Care for Jeans

How often should I wash jeans?

As a general rule, you should wash your jeans as sparingly as possible. This will depend on your lifestyle and what you wear them for, but every ten wears is a good rule of thumb, or until your jeans are visibly soiled or beginning to smell. You can spot-clean your denim between washes with a damp cloth and some mild soap to remove stains.

How to Wash Jeans

Although denim is a durable fabric, it can quickly begin to fade and look worn when you don't use proper washing methods. Jeans are fine to put in the washing machine, but for a designer pair or one you want to keep nice for special occasions, we recommend hand washing. Below are simple guidelines for both methods.

Machine Washing:

• Set your washer to a cold, gentle cycle.

• Use a mild detergent and do not use fabric softener

• Turn your jeans inside out

• Optional: Put your jeans in a mesh laundry bag to protect the fibers

Hand Washing:

• Fill a bathtub or utility sink with cold water

• Add a small amount of mild detergent

• Submerge the jeans and gently scrub them to remove dirt

• Allow your jeans to soak for 45 minutes

• Rinse thoroughly

• Roll or fold your jeans in a towel to absorb excess water

Sophia’s Tip: When washing a new pair of jeans, separate them from other clothing to avoid dye bleeding.

How to Dry Jeans—Can I put them in the dryer?

To best prolong the life of your jeans, hang them inside out to dry on a drying rack or clothesline, avoiding direct sunlight to prevent fading. If you don't have a clothing rack, another option is to lay them flat on a towel in a place with good air circulation, flipping them halfway.

If you're okay with fading and possible shrinkage over time, you can put your jeans in the dryer, but only in a low- or no-heat setting. Take them out while they're still slightly damp and hang them until they finish drying. Once dry, fold them, hang them, or put them back on!

Sophia’s Tip: Repair, don’t retire

“A small tear doesn’t mean the end. Invest in patches (denim or fun designs) or visit a local tailor for reinforcement. Broken-in jeans with personality are always worth saving.”

Now that you know the proper methods for washing and drying your jeans, you can enjoy wearing your perfect pair for years to come. For additional questions on caring for your denim, visit your local SCHEELS and speak with a Fashion Expert.