Forget the myths. Freezing your jeans? Vinegar baths? Nope. Here’s the truth — straight from people who actually wear their denim raw. Whether you’re new to the game or a fade veteran, this guide’s for you.
Rule #1: Keep It Simple
Jeans are made of cotton. Cotton loves water. That’s why your bedsheets survive the wash. So yes, you can wash jeans.
But denim isn’t just cotton. It’s woven and dyed in a way that makes it special. That’s where the extra care comes in.
Rule #2: Protect the Indigo (This Is Where the Magic Happens)
Indigo is what gives denim its soul — but it’s fragile. Unlike most dyes, it doesn’t penetrate deep into the fibers. It sits on the surface, which is why jeans fade beautifully over time.
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Wash inside out to reduce surface abrasion.
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Skip the spin cycle the first couple of washes if your jeans are dyed with synthetic indigo.
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Wearing natural indigo? Go extra gentle: no spin for the first five washes.
Why? Spin cycles = aggressive fading and sometimes uneven patches.
Rule #3: Manage Shrinkage Like a Pro
Most raw denim is sanforized (pre-shrunk), but water will still tighten the fibers.
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Cold water = less shrinkage (best for maintaining fit).
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Hot water = more shrinkage (only do this if your jeans are too loose and the color has settled).
💡 Pro tip for experts: Got unsanforized denim (shrink-to-fit)? Expect major shrinkage after the first soak or wash.
Rule #4: Wash When They Need It (Not When Reddit Says)
Every wash = stress on fibers (water, soap, agitation). But dirt, sweat, and bacteria break denim down too. So don’t go six months without washing just to prove a point.
Wash when they smell, feel stiff, or start looking… alive. For natural indigo jeans, always use a gentle cycle like wool.
Extra Tips from the Denim Community:
- Air dry only — dryers ruin shape and fibers.
- Use a mild detergent — ideally one made for denim or wool.
- Wash one pair at a time — no denim-on-denim damage.
