How to Wash Denim / Jeans
What You'll Need
- Machine wash
- Small amount
- 1 cup
Step-by-Step Method
Turn jeans inside out before washing. This protects the outer surface from abrasion that causes fading.
Wash on the gentle cycle with cold water and a small amount of mild detergent. Wash jeans with similar dark colors.
Air drying is best for maintaining fit (heat causes denim to shrink). If you prefer softer jeans, tumble dry on low for 10 minutes, then hang to finish.
- Do not wash jeans after every wear (unnecessary and accelerates fading)
- Do not use hot water (shrinks denim and fades color)
- Do not use bleach (unless intentionally distressing)
- Do not dry on high heat (shrinks and weakens fibers)
- Denim experts (including Levi's CEO) recommend washing jeans every 4-6 wears minimum. Spot-clean between washes.
- For raw (unwashed) denim: wear for 6 months before the first wash to develop natural wear patterns (fades). Soak in cold water with vinegar for the first wash.
- Freezing jeans does NOT kill bacteria. This is a myth. Cold temperatures make bacteria dormant, not dead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Every 4-6 wears for regular jeans. Spot-clean between washes. Raw denim enthusiasts go 6+ months before the first wash to develop personalized fade patterns. The key is that denim is a durable, self-cleaning fabric that does not need frequent washing.
Sources & Methodology
Denim care recommendations from Levi Strauss & Co. guidelines. Cold water washing preserves indigo dye. Vinegar (acetic acid) acts as a mordant that helps fix dye to cotton fibers.
Last reviewed: March 20, 2026