How to Wash Jeans Without Fading or Shrinking

Jeans are one of the most durable garments in your wardrobe — but washing them wrong can lead to fading, shrinking, and loss of shape. Here's how to wash jeans properly to keep them looking great for years.

The Right Way to Wash Jeans

1. Turn jeans inside out. This protects the outer surface from friction and fading during the wash cycle.
2. Use cold water. Hot water causes denim to shrink and fade faster. Cold water preserves both color and fit. See our temperature guide for details.
3. Select gentle or normal cycle. Heavy-duty cycles are unnecessary for denim and cause extra wear.
4. Use a small amount of mild detergent. Dark denim especially benefits from a dye-preserving detergent or just less detergent overall.
5. Wash with similar items. Wash jeans with other darks to prevent dye transfer to lighter clothes. Check our sorting guide.

How to Dry Jeans

• Air dry when possible. Hang jeans by the waistband or lay flat. This prevents shrinkage and maintains the fit you've worn in.
• If using a dryer: Low heat only, and remove while slightly damp. Over-drying causes shrinkage and stiffness.
• Never dry on high heat. This is the fastest way to shrink jeans and fade the color.

How Often Should You Wash Jeans?

Less than you think. Most denim experts recommend washing jeans every 5-10 wears unless visibly dirty or smelly. Frequent washing breaks down the fibers and fades the color faster. Spot-clean small stains between washes.