First wash (new jeans)
Cold water hand washing alone: The first time in the water is the key! Soak in cold water below 30℃ to avoid shrinkage or fading caused by hot water.
Flip the pants over for washing: Turn the pants over to reduce surface friction and color fading.
Gentle rubbing and washing: Avoid vigorous rubbing or twisting, especially at rivets and seams, to prevent deformation.
Do not use bleach: Do not use chlorine-containing bleach, as it will oxidize the dye and cause severe fading.
2. Daily cleaning
Reduce the frequency of machine washing: Denim becomes thinner with each wash. It is recommended to wash it in a concentrated manner after wearing it multiple times to extend its lifespan.
Flip + Gentle mode: When machine washing, flip and select the "Gentle" mode, then put it in the laundry bag to protect the fabric.
Cold water + neutral detergent: Use cold water and neutral soap solution (such as Silk and Wool cleaner) to avoid damaging the fibers with alkaline laundry detergent.
Avoid prolonged soaking: Soaking for too long will accelerate fading. After washing, rinse and dry as soon as possible.
3. Anti-fading techniques
Salt water fixation method: When washing for the first time, add 1 tablespoon of salt (about 5g/L of water) to the water and let it soak for 1 hour to help lock in the dye.
White vinegar for anti-hardening: Add a small amount of white vinegar (about 50ml per basin of water) to keep the denim soft and neutralize the alkaline residue at the same time.
Drying method: Avoid direct sunlight! After turning it over, place it in a well-ventilated area to dry in the shade to prevent oxidation and fading caused by sunlight.
4. Local cleaning (small area stains)
Wipe with a damp cloth: Use a soft cloth dipped in water to gently wipe the stained area, then rinse it clean with water. Reduce the frequency of overall water washing.
Specialized cleaner: For stubborn stains, use a denim stain remover or mild soap. Avoid strong friction.
5. Taboos
❌ Hot water wash: High temperature causes severe shrinkage and deformation.
❌ DRYER drying: Hot air can harden, shrink and even break denim.
❌ Sun exposure or hot ironing: Direct sunlight or a hot iron will accelerate fading. If ironing is needed, use a damp cloth and light iron at a low temperature.
❌ Mixed dark clothes: Denim is prone to fading and should be washed separately to avoid staining other clothes.
6. Long-term maintenance
Hanging storage: Use a hanger to prop up the trouser legs to avoid folding and creasing, and keep the jeans in a crisp shape.
Moisture-proof and mold-proof: During the humid season, desiccants can be placed and regular ventilation should be carried out to prevent the growth of mold.
Timely repair: If there is any loose thread or damage, sew it up as soon as possible to prevent the crack from expanding.
Summary: When washing denim, follow the principle of "hand washing in cold water, gently turning over, and less washing and sun exposure", combined with salt water color fixation and air-drying maintenance, which can best maintain the shape, color and durability of the pattern.