How to Wash Jeans

Extend the life of your jeans, keep them from fading, and keep them from shrinking when you follow these easy how to steps. Washing your jeans this way will take a little longer than simply tossing them in the washer and dryer, but the long-lasting benefits will be your reward. Plus, if you're paying designer prices for your denim, you'll want to learn the proper way to wash jeans.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Washing machine
• Woolite
• Pants hanger

1. Prepare your jeans for washing by emptying the pockets and turning the jeans inside out.

2. Set your washing machine to a cold temperature and the gentle or hand wash cycle. Fill the machine with water and use the recommended amount of Woolite.

3. Once the machine has pre-filled with water, add your jeans to the wash.

4. Once the washing machine cycle has finished, promptly remove your jeans. Turn them right side out, and hang them by the waist with a two clip pant hanger.

5. Hang your jeans out of direct sunlight and let them air dry. Drying time will vary by depending on the climate in which you live, the current air temperature and humidity. To be on the safe side, plan on letting your jeans dry for at least a day and a half.

Tips & Warnings

• Woolite is recommended, but a store brand equivalent will work just fine.
• Do not use more than the recommended amount of Woolite. This detergent bubbles more than regular laundry detergent and using too much can damage your washing machine.
• Never, ever use fabric softener with your jeans.
• Never, ever, ever place your jeans in the dryer.

[LaurenRomano]

on 5/21/2008 I never understood people who insist on putting their jeans in the dryer. It completely ruins the feel and fit.