Before starting a load of laundry, it’s always a good idea to separate your clothes by color and fabric type. But what about those trusty jeans? Can they go in with the rest of the laundry, or do they need to be washed separately?
In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of washing jeans with other clothes. We’ll also provide some tips for preserving your denim and answer some frequently asked questions about washing jeans.
The Pros of Washing Jeans with Other Clothes
Saves Water
One of the main benefits of washing jeans with other clothes is that it saves water. A standard washing machine uses about 30 gallons of water per load, even if it’s not full. Adding a pair of jeans to a load of laundry can reduce the amount of water you use by 10-15 gallons.
Saves Time
Another advantage of washing jeans with other clothes is that it saves time. If you have a lot of laundry to do, washing your jeans with other items can help you get it all done in one go. This is especially helpful if you’re short on time or don’t have a separate laundry day for dark and light clothes.
Saves Energy
Washing your jeans with other clothes can also save energy. If you have an Energy Star-certified washing machine, it uses about 50 percent less water and 40 percent less energy than a standard model. This means that washing a load of laundry with your jeans in it will use less energy than washing two separate loads, one for your jeans and one for your other clothes.
The Cons of Washing Jeans with Other Clothes
Jeans Can Damage Other Clothes in the Wash
One of the main disadvantages of washing jeans with other clothes is that jeans can damage other items in the wash. The denim fabric is rough and can snag on other clothes, causing them to tear or pill. In addition, the hardware on jeans (such as buttons and zippers) can snag on other items and damage them.
Clothes Can Take on the Color of Jeans
Another downside of washing jeans with other clothes is that your other clothes may take on the color of your jeans. This is especially true if you’re washing light-colored clothes with dark-colored jeans. The dye in the denim can transfer to other clothes in the wash, resulting in stained or discolored clothing.
Heavy Jeans Can Overload Washing Machines
Another disadvantage of washing jeans with other clothes is that jeans can be heavy and may overload your washing machine. A pair of jeans can weigh up to 1.5 pounds, which is about the same as a wet bath towel. If you wash too many heavy items in one load, it can damage your washing machine or shorten its lifespan.
Tips for Preserving Your Denim
If you do choose to wash your jeans with other clothes, there are a few things you can do to minimize the risk of damage.
Use a gentle cycle: Washing your jeans on a delicate or hand-wash cycle will minimize the risk of damage to other clothes in the wash.
Wash them inside out: Washing your jeans inside out will help minimize the risk of color transfer.
Wash with similar colors: Washing your jeans with other dark-colored clothes will minimize the risk of color transfer.
Use a mesh bag: Putting your jeans in a mesh laundry bag will help protect them from damage in the wash.
Frequently Asked Questions
Just in case you still have some questions about washing jeans with other clothes, we’ve gathered together a few of the most frequently asked questions and provided answers below.
Can I wash my jeans with other clothes?
It’s generally safe to wash most types of jeans with other clothes and not have to worry about any damage being done. However, it’s important to use a gentle cycle and wash them inside out to minimize the risk of damage or color transfer.
Can I wash dark-colored jeans with light-colored clothes?
Dark-colored jeans are known to bleed, so it’s best to wash them with other dark-colored clothes. This will minimize the risk of your light-colored clothes being stained by the denim dye.
Can I put my jeans in the dryer with other clothes?
Yes, you can put your jeans in the dryer with other clothes. However, it’s important to use a low heat setting to minimize the risk of damage to your jeans or other clothes.
Final Thoughts
Washing your jeans with other clothes is generally safe and can save you time, water, and energy. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind to minimize the risk of damage, such as using a gentle cycle and washing them inside out. If you have any further questions, be sure to check out the FAQs section above.