How-To | Care for Denim

The debate surrounding washing denim has been in discussion over the last few years - remember when Chip Bergh, CEO of Levi Strauss, hit airwaves stating that he hasn't washed his jeans in a year? We created The Laundress Denim Wash to preserve color and naturally soften so you can avoid the dryer (which is where most color loss and distress occurs). Learn how to properly wash and care for your denim with the best denim wash and the following steps.

Gather These Tools:

Stain Solution, Stain Brush, Scented Vinegar, Denim Duo, All-Purpose Bleach Alternative Mesh Bag

STEP 1:
Examine For Stains

Treat stains with Stain Solution, and pretreat susceptible areas such as the pant hem. Use your finger or Stain Brush to work the solution into the fabric

A Smelly Situation: If odor is an issue, apply Scented Vinegar directly to odor areas and work into the fabric. Then presoak the item in a basin of tepid water mixed with ¼ cup of Scented Vinegar.

Have Raw Denim? Dye transfer and bleeding can be a dark reality of raw denim. To help set dye, presoak in a bath of cool water and Scented Vinegar. Always wash separately.

STEP 2:
Machine Wash

Put It In Reverse: Prepare to wash by turning denim inside out to prevent abrasion and lengthen the life of colorant dyes. 

Bag It: Place inside of a Mesh Bag to protect zippers, buttons, and any special detailing, embellishment, or distressing.

Select Your Cycle: Select the normal cycle on your machine and make sure the water temperature is cold when laundering blue or dark denim. Add Denim Wash considering the machine type and load size. When washing white denim, select hot water and add 1 capful of All-Purpose Bleach Alternative to the load with Denim Wash.

STEP 3:
Air It Out

Avoid the dryer if you can! Line dry denim to prevent fading, shrinking and extra wear/tear.

STEP 4:
Freshen

It's not necessary to launder denim after every wear. Use Fabric Fresh Classic between wears to keep denim smelling fresh. This allergen-free fabric spray removes odor while adding a fresh laundry scent.