There’s nothing quite like a great pair of jeans. The perfect pair can be stylish, comfortable, and go well with almost anything. Finding your favorite pair of jeans can be quite a task—so when you’ve found your perfect pair, you want to make sure to treat them right. But how should you wash your jeans? How often should you wash your jeans? And is there a way to clean jeans without washing them? Don’t worry—we’re here to help make sure you and your favorite pair of jeans have many happy years together!
How Often To Wash Jeans
It may seem wrong to put off washing your clothes, but in the case of denim, procrastination is actually a pro tip. Durable fabrics like denim don’t need to be washed after every wear—in fact, the less often you wash them, the longer they will look brand new. Frequent washes can lead to color fading and breaking down elasticity (ever wonder why your jeans suddenly have a saggy butt?).
While some stylists recommend washing your jeans after 5 wears, others recommend washing them just once every 12 wears, or 6 weeks. Your mileage may vary, but if your jeans are visibly dirty or smelly, it is probably time for a wash!
Tips for Washing your Jeans
- Turn your jeans inside out before washing! This helps protect the color of yoru denim and makes sure the inside of your pants are squeeky clean!
- Wash in cold water to help prevent shrinking and fading, and preservation of the color and fit of your jeans.
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Air dry when you can! We know it may take awhile, but air drying will help preserve your denim. If you prefer a dryer, opt for no or low heat!
How to Clean Jeans Without Washing
If your jeans could use a bit of freshening but aren’t quite ready for a wash, try these laundry pro tips! Your jeans will seem right out of the wash—and we won’t tell if you don’t.
Stick them in the freezer
Freezing your jeans is an easy and effective way to deodorize your denim between washing. Simply put them in the freezer before bed, and wake up to fresh, odor-free pants. (This is also great for a hot day!)
Let Them Breathe
Odor-causing bacteria sometimes results in jeans smelling dirtier than they actually are. Hang your jeans in a window or near a fan to freshen them. You may also want to consider hanging your jeans in your closet, rather than folded or rolled up in a drawer.
Spot Clean
If you spill something on your jeans, try spot cleaning before tossing them in the wash.
Give Them a Spritz
If you’re missing that just-washed scent, try spraying your jeans with your favorite fabric spray!