Jeans can last for many years and many people become emotionally attached to them. The most common reason for jeans to wear out is incorrect washing. Washing jeans at the wrong temperature can lead to discoloration, shrinking, and decreased durability.
To make sure that your beloved jeans stay intact and look great for a long time, it’s important to know how to wash them the right way and more importantly, at the right temperature.
In this article, we’ll explore the best washing temperatures for different types of jeans and why it’s important to wash them with water at the correct temperature. We’ll also provide answers to some common questions about washing jeans. Read on to learn more!
Best Temperature for Washing Jeans
Not all types of jeans are washed the same way. Depending on their color and fabric, they may require different washing temperatures.
Blue Jeans:
Blue jeans are the most versatile of all denim jeans and can be worn in almost any situation. They are usually pre-shrunk from the factory, so you can wash them at almost any temperature without having to worry about shrinking.
However, the best temperature to wash blue jeans is either cold or warm water (60°F/20°C). This will help preserve the fabric and keep fading to a minimum.
Dark Jeans:
Most dark jeans also come pre-shrunk from the factory. However, they typically require a lot of fabric dyes to give them that dark and rich color. The dyes will fade with every wash regardless of the temperature, especially if you wash them in hot water.
So, the best temperature to wash dark jeans is cold water. Anything above 50°F/10°C can cause the dyes to run much quicker and will make your jeans look faded.
White or Faded Jeans:
White jeans or faded jeans either don’t contain any dyes or have already been washed many times so the dyes have faded away. So you won’t have to worry about the dyes running when washing them in most temperatures.
However, dirt and stains will be more apparent on lighter color jeans, and you will have to wash them more frequently compared to darker jeans.
That’s why it’s best to wash white or faded jeans in cold to warm water (60°F/20°C). Not only will this help keep the jeans from shrinking, but it will also keep the fabric from wearing out too soon from frequent washes.
Raw Denim Jeans:
Raw denim jeans are a type of jeans that have never been washed or pre-shrunk from the factory. Washing them at the right temperature the first time is critical, depending on the desired outcome.
Regardless of which temperature you wash raw denim jeans the first time, they will shrink! However, washing them in Hot water will shrink them more than washing them in Cold or Warm water.
So if you want your raw denim jeans to fit snugly, it’s best to wash them in Hot water. If you prefer a more relaxed fit, then Cold or Warm water is the better choice.
How to Determine the Best Temperature to Wash Jeans
Now that you know which temperature is best for each type of jeans, it’s important to understand the importance of washing them at the correct temperature. Depending on the desired outcome, you may want to choose the hottest or coolest temperature possible.
Best Temperature to Shrink Jeans
If you want to shrink your jeans, then it’s best to wash them in Hot water. Your jeans will generally shrink more the higher the temperature of the water you wash them in. For raw denim or “Shrink-to-Fit” jeans, you may even want to use boiling water (212°F/100°C)!
On the other hand, if you don’t want to shrink your jeans, then it’s best to stick to only washing them in cold water and avoiding the dryer as much as possible.
Best Temperature to Prevent Fading
Just like shrinkage, fading is also more apparent when you wash your jeans in Hot water. So if you want to keep your dark jeans looking as dark and vibrant as possible for longer, then it’s best to only wash them in cold water.
And if you’re looking to add a faded, worn-in look to your jeans, then washing them in Hot water is the best way to accomplish that.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can wash jeans in hot water. Just make sure to check the label for any specific instructions. However, if you want to prevent fading and shrinkage, then it’s best to stick with cold or warm water temperatures.
Yes, jeans can be washed in cold water. Most of the time, this is the best temperature to wash all types of jeans in order to prevent fading and shrinkage.
Depending on the activity level and how often you wear your jeans, it’s best to wash jeans as little as possible. Some experts only recommend washing your denim jeans once or twice a year!
You should wear your new pair of jeans as much as possible before washing them the first time. This will help it conform to your body and create the perfect shape. When you’re ready to wash them, you can decide on the right temperature based on the type of jeans and your desired outcome. Hot water to shrink and give them a faded look, or cold water to prevent fading and shrinkage.
Final Thoughts
Overall, understanding when and how to correctly wash your jeans is key to keeping them looking fresh and fitting just right! With the right temperature settings and regular cleaning, you can ensure that your jeans last for years to come.
By following the guidelines above, you can easily determine which temperature is best for washing your jeans. Whether you’re looking to shrink or preserve them, understanding the best temperature for each type of jeans will keep them looking great and fitting just right!