How to wash jeans properly? The ultimate care guide for denim

Proper denim care: how to keep your jeans looking good for a long time

The only thing between a stylish favorite and a durable everyday hero is the right care.

Denim is more than just a fabric - it's a statement, a loyal companion and a fashion classic that will last for generations. But to keep your jeans looking good even after many wears, the right care is crucial. In this guide, you'll find out how to gently clean your denim pieces, avoid unpleasant odors and maintain the perfect used look - without wearing out or losing color.

Why denim needs special care

Denim is a robust cotton fabric that was originally developed for workwear. Nevertheless, it is more sensitive than you might think - especially when it comes to color, shape and fibers. Incorrect care can cause jeans to wear out, shrink or lose their rich color. To avoid this, you should follow a few simple but effective rules.

Less is more: How often should you wash jeans?

Many people wash their jeans too often - and this is one of the most common care mistakes. Washing too often not only leads to faster color loss, but also to degradation of the fibers.

Basic rule: Wear your jeans at least 5-10 times before you wash them - depending on how much you wear them.

Tip: Small stains can often be removed selectively with a damp cloth or a little mild detergent - without the need for machine washing.

Before washing: what you should definitely consider

Before your jeans even go into the washing machine, you can take simple steps to ensure that they are cleaned as gently as possible.

Turn inside out

Always turn your jeans inside out before washing them. This protects the outside from abrasion and preserves the color.

Closing zippers and buttons

Closed jeans keep their shape and prevent other items of clothing from being damaged.

No overfilled drum

Give your jeans room - especially skinny or stretch styles. This will ensure they are washed more evenly and are better protected.

How to wash denim properly

The right washing program

Select a delicate or gentle wash program at a low temperature (30 °C). Avoid high spin cycles - they put unnecessary strain on the fabric.

The right detergent

Use a mild, liquid detergent without bleach. Color detergents are particularly suitable as they are gentle on the color pigments. Avoid fabric softener - it attacks the elastane fibers in stretch jeans and causes them to wear out.

Single or color sorting

Wash your jeans with similar colors or separately. New jeans in particular can bleed and discolor other textiles.

After washing: drying and storage

Air drying instead of a dryer

Lay your jeans flat on a towel or hang them up by the waist - preferably in the shade. UV rays fade denim quickly. Dryers, on the other hand, damage elastane fibers and lead to shrinkage.

Ironing jeans?

In most cases, it is sufficient to smooth out the jeans and allow them to air dry. If you want to iron them, do so inside out and at a low temperature - without steam.

Between washes: how to keep your jeans fresh

Airing instead of washing

Hang your jeans in the fresh air after wearing them. Odors usually evaporate on their own - especially if you hang them outside overnight (not in the rain!).

Freeze denim?

A popular tip is to freeze your jeans to remove odors. This has not been scientifically proven, but it can help with slight odors - the important thing is to put the jeans in an airtight bag beforehand.

Jean care for special models

Raw denim

Unwashed denim (raw denim) is particularly sensitive to water. Wear it unwashed for as long as possible to allow an individual patina to form. If necessary, wash by hand or on a delicate cycle.

Stretch jeans

The higher the elastane content, the more delicate the jeans. Particularly important: no tumble dryer and no fabric softener. Air drying is mandatory to maintain the shape.

Conclusion: Denim thrives on character - and the right care

Jeans don't get worse over time, they get better - if you treat them right. Changes in color, slight fading or creases are part of the natural aging process of denim and give it its special look. With a little care, your jeans will not only stay wearable for longer, but will also gain personality.

Now you've got the right care - all you need is the perfect pair of jeans? Browse through our curated denim selection on BrandsLoft.ch and find your new favorite. Still not sure which jeans look best on you? Then our jeans fit guide will certainly help you.