Denim is designed to be worn, lived in, and styled on repeat. With the right care, your jeans will keep their shape, color, and feel season after season. Whether you’ve invested in a rigid cotton style or a softer comfort denim, knowing how to care for your jeans makes all the difference.
Below, we answer the most common denim care questions to help you get the most out of your wardrobe.
How often should I wash my jeans?
Not necessarily often. Denim benefits from less frequent washing. Instead of throwing your jeans in the machine after every wear, try airing them out by hanging them outside or near an open window. This freshens them naturally without causing unnecessary wear.
For a quick refresh, some people also choose to place their jeans in the freezer overnight. It helps neutralise odours without washing and keeps the fabric intact.
What’s the best way to clean jeans between washes?
Spot cleaning is your best friend. If you notice a small stain or mark, gently clean only the affected area instead of washing the entire garment. This helps preserve both the color and the structure of the denim.
How to wash my jeans
If washing is necessary, always turn your jeans inside out before placing them in the machine. This reduces friction and helps protect the outer surface of the fabric.
Use low temperatures and wash with similar colours. Filling the washing machine rather than running half-empty cycles is gentler on your clothes and more efficient overall.
Use low temperatures and wash with similar colours. Filling the washing machine rather than running half-empty cycles is gentler on your clothes and more efficient overall.
Which detergent should I use for denim?
Choose an environmentally labelled detergent whenever possible. Liquid detergent is often preferable to powder, as it dissolves more easily and leaves fewer residues on the fabric.
Avoid using fabric softener. While it may seem like a good idea, softener can weaken denim fibres over time and reduce the natural stretch and structure of the jeans.
Avoid using fabric softener. While it may seem like a good idea, softener can weaken denim fibres over time and reduce the natural stretch and structure of the jeans.
Can I dry my jeans in the tumble dryer?
Tumble drying is best avoided. Heat can cause shrinkage and break down the fibres, shortening the lifespan of your jeans.
How to dry jeans
Instead, hang your jeans to air dry. This helps them retain their shape and reduces unnecessary wear and tear.
Is dry cleaning a good option for denim?
Dry cleaning isn’t recommended for jeans. Gentle washing or spot cleaning is usually a better choice.
Do darker jeans need extra care?
Darker denim can be more sensitive during the first wears due to the intensity of the dye. Washing them inside out and with similar colours helps maintain the depth of the wash.
How can I make my jeans last longer overall?
Wash less, wash smarter, and avoid heat. Store your jeans properly, either folded or hung, and give them time to breathe between wears. Denim is designed to age with character - thoughtful care allows it to do so beautifully.
What should I do when I no longer wear my jeans?
When you’re ready to move on from a pair of jeans, consider selling, donating, or handing them in for recycling. Extending the life of denim, even beyond your own wardrobe, is one of the most sustainable choices you can make.
Learn More About Denim
Looking for help finding the right fit? Explore our Denim Guide to discover different silhouettes, rises, and styling inspiration.
Because great denim isn’t just about how it looks on day one - it’s about how it lives with you over time.