Denim is a timeless fabric that has been a staple in the fashion industry and our closets for decades. It’s a versatile and durable material that means a good piece of denim when cared for properly can last for a lifetime.
However, many people struggle with how to wash and care for denim properly, which can sadly lead to fading, shrinkage, and even tears. In this blog post, we’ll share some tips on how to properly wash and care for your denim to keep it looking great for years to come.
Step 1 - Wash your Denim Inside Out
Washing your denim inside out will help to protect the colour to prevent fading and will also keep the exterior fabric looking fresh. By washing your denim inside out, there is less friction to the outside of the fabric and the inside of the fabric gets the cleaning it needs.
Step 2 - Wash in Cold Water
Denim should be washed in cold water to prevent shrinking and colour fading, so get washing on a delicate cycle. Hot water can cause the fabric to shrink, which often leads to the denim jeans way too tight to get on!
Step 3 - Use a Gentle Specialist Detergent
When washing your denim, use a gentle detergent that is specifically designed for denim or delicate fabrics. Harsh detergents can damage the fabric and cause fading. Our Basil and Mandarin Leaf detergent and fabric conditioner is designed to work really effectively at low temperatures and fills your clothes and home with stunning fragrances.
Step 4 - Air Dry Your Denim
After washing your denim, always air dry it instead of putting it in the dryer as the high heat of the dryer can easily cause shrinkage and damage to the fabric. Hang your denim to dry, if doing so outside then leave it in the shade to prevent your jeans bleaching and fading.
Step 5 - Don't Over Wash!
If you learn one thing today, let it be this: denim doesn’t need to be washed after every wear. In fact, we recommend washing your denim only when it has odours and is really dirty. Over-washing your denim can cause the fabric to break down and lose its shape.
Instead, when your denim does not actually need a wash, give it a spritz with our Clothing Deodorizer spray instead. This kills 96% of bacteria, so you are getting rid of any impurities while making your fabric smell really fresh. This will help to extend the life of your denim.
Also, to tackle dry marks like dust or mud, try our Natural Bristle Clothes Brush. You'd be surprised at how much dirt you can banish without the need for a wet wash.
Step 6 - Storing & Maintaining
Some garments have clear rules on how you should store them: coats are hung in the wardrobe, jumpers are folded on shelves. But when it comes to denim, the rules are less solid. For ease, we recommend folding jeans and storing in drawers, as they'll probably be more accessible this way. Naturally, denim jackets can be hung up with your other jackets!
Finally, if your jeans need a little TLC because of holes or hems, we've got you covered! Follow our online tutorials for how to patch or re-hem denim. 
For more clothing care tips explore more of our blogs, such as our blog on how to hand wash merino wool, or how to hand wash a wool jumper. For our whole range of detergents, mists, tools and accessories that extend the life and improve the look, feel and smell, of your wardrobe favourites, explore our whole range.
