The correct way to clean your jeans without washing them
It’s a situation we’re all familiar with. You buy a new pair of jeans that fit like a dream and hug you in all the right places … until you decide to throw it in the wash.
In comes the disappointment as your trusty denim just doesn’t feel the same way anymore. But there’s a simple solution to this complicated situation – just don’t wash your jeans.
It may seem like a crazy concept, but Levi’s CEO and President Chip Bergh says to never throw your jeans in the wash, and when the king of denim gives an order, you follow it.
Speaking to CNN, Bergh said, “If you talk to real denim aficionados, they will all agree you should never put your jeans in the wash.
“I spot clean my jeans when they need to be washed. Worst care, I hand wash my jeans. And I do it myself. I mean I love my jeans, and I take good care of them.”
John Reid, managing director at clothing retailer Garment Quarter agrees with Bergh, saying his theory makes sense.
“Washing your denim jeans can alter the make-up of the material itself, and in fact, your favourite pair of jeans don’t need to be washed as frequently as you may think,” he tells Yahoo UK.
“The sheer amount of water that they are exposed to in a washing machine can be the culprit for affecting the look and colour of the denim by fading over time.”
So, when it comes to jeans, how do you clean them? Here are some nifty ways to keep your jeans looking as good as new.
1. Spot clean them
If you happen to squirt tomato sauce or chocolate on your light wash jeans, Reid says spot cleaning is the best way to remove unwanted stains.
“Keep your designer jeans in top condition by ‘spot cleaning’ any stains by using a toothbrush and a mixture of water with a gentle detergent. Doing this will not only reduce the risk of fading the dye, but you’ll also be helping the environment by reducing your water usage.”
2. Freeze them
Your freezer isn’t only for leftovers – it’s also to keep your jeans looking new while making sure they’re hygienic.
“Fold the jeans and place inside an airtight freezer bag before putting them in the freezer overnight and any bacteria will be killed by the cold temperatures,” Reid advises.
3. Hand wash them
Sometimes, there really is no other option but to use good ol’ water to clean your jeans thoroughly. When that’s the case, Bergh said to use your hands and a bit of cold water to get them looking fresh.
“Or hop in the shower with them on and soak them down and rinse them off – I do that too,” he said.
Do you have any nifty hacks when it comes to washing your jeans? Let us know in the comments below.