Jeans are the foundation of every wardrobe, so taking care of your denim is key. While most people tend to stick to the standard method of care we use for most clothing, the washing machine, there are actually many schools of thought as to how to properly maintain jeans – from dry cleaning to putting them in your freezer.
As someone with at least twenty pairs of jeans in my rotation – some of them vintage – I wanted to figure out the “right way” to care for my denim once and for all. So, I turned to an expert to learn more.
How Often Should You Wash Jeans?
According to Grace Na, founder and creative director of Los Angeles-based denim and womenswear brand Pistola, we should be wary of how frequently we throw our jeans in a washing machine. She advises washing jeans as infrequently as possible and taking caution with the types of cleaning products you use on your denim.
While it’s important to keep your clothing clean, Na warns that it is possible to over-wash your jeans. She explains to In The Know by Yahoo, “Both the washer and dryer will break down the fabric over time. This will cause the fabric to sag in areas we typically don’t want them to, such as the butt and knees.”
Na also cautions against using bleach on denim, even color-safe types. She says, “Using this over time will cause the fibers in your denim to wear down. This will cause the fabric to appear baggy. Don’t do it!”
That being said, Na says that it is okay to use your washing machine to clean jeans as long as you don’t wash them too frequently. “I would recommend wearing denim as long as you can go without washing. If you’re wearing well-made and sturdy denim, you should be able to wear them for at least one week without cleaning them,” she says.
When the time comes to wash your jeans, make sure to use as much care as possible so you’re not breaking down the fabric. Try using a gentle or delicate wash cycle, then opt to air dry instead of throwing your jeans into the tumble dryer to cut down on the harsh effects of machine washing.
The best way to ensure the longevity of your jeans is to shop great quality denim and take proper care when cleaning them. If you’re in need of a denim refresh, scroll down to shop some timeless, high-quality styles.
1. Levi’s Wedgie High Waist Straight Leg Jeans, $98
Inspired by vintage denim cuts, this straight-leg pair has raw hems and a flattering high waist that hugs your hips.
2. Pistola Lennon High Waist Ankle Bootcut Jeans, $138-$158
Made from cotton-blend denim with just a touch of stretch, Pistola’s Lennon jeans have a classic bootleg silhouette and cropped length.
3. KUT From The Kloth Catherine Boyfriend Jeans, $99
Boyfriend jeans are an easy everyday style because of their relaxed fit. This pair by KUT From The Kloth has a faded blue wash, so they look perfectly worn-in.
4. Wash Lab Denim Daily Denim Trousers, $112
Wash Lab Denim made this wide-leg pair from sturdy, cotton-blend denim in a dark indigo wash. They have a high, tailored waist for a crisp, modern look.
5. Pistola Ally Crop Straight Leg Jeans, $158
Crafted with organic cotton in a medium-blue wash, this straight-leg pair has a casual look that goes with everything.
6. KUT From The Kloth Meg Fab Ab High Waist Raw Hem Ankle Wide Leg Jeans, $99
This wide-leg pair is made with KUT From The Kloth’s “Fab Ab” front pockets that give a flattering fit.
If you liked this story, check out these top-rated raincoats.
The post A denim expert told me to stop washing my jeans and to do this instead appeared first on In The Know.
A denim expert told me to stop washing my jeans and to do this instead
Pinoy Variant