Raw denim loses indigo every wash because the dye sits on the surface of the yarn rather than penetrating it. That is why washing less preserves the colour.
How to wash denim
| Garment | Wash | Dry | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Denim | cold, 30°C (86°F) | line dry, inside out, away from sun | small amount, no bleach |
Use a gentle, inside out cycle and small amount, no bleach. Denim degrades far more from washing than from wearing. Every ten wears is plenty for most people, and spot-cleaning covers the rest.
Drying and ironing
Dry line dry, inside out, away from sun. For ironing: rarely needed; medium if so.
Tumble drying is what kills the elastane in stretch denim. Once it goes, the knees bag out and never recover.
How long it should last
Three to ten years; 100% cotton denim outlasts stretch blends substantially.
Quick reference
Denim at a glance
- Wash: cold, 30°C (86°F)
- Cycle: gentle, inside out
- Detergent: small amount, no bleach
- Dry: line dry, inside out, away from sun
- Iron: rarely needed; medium if so