HOW TO WASH A DENIM JACKET

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Hand-washing is the gentlest method and easier than you think.
• Machine washing is safe if you follow a few essential steps.
• Air-drying keeps your jacket in shape and prevents shrinkage.
• Spot cleaning reduces how often you need a complete wash.

The time has finally come to wash your favorite jean jacket. How should you clean it?

The answer may seem blatantly obvious (washing machine, dryer, repeat), but like any denim piece, jean jackets need a little extra care.

HOW SHOULD I WASH MY DENIM JACKET?

Washing your denim jacket by hand is ideal, as it helps preserve the structure and color. Most care tags will advise you to hand-wash.

But we all know that most of us don’t have the time for that, and instead, we’d rather throw it in the washing machine.

You can safely wash your denim jacket in the machine, but with a few extra steps. We’ll break down both methods: washing via machine and by hand.

METHOD 1: WASHING MACHINE

The easy, more straightforward way.

1. GET YOUR JEAN JACKET READY

Don’t toss your denim jacket in the machine just yet. Look at the care label for specific instructions. Check your pockets for any objects that could damage your jacket, such as pens or napkins. If there are stains on your jean jacket, apply stain treatment to the problem areas.

2. PUT IT IN THE WASH

Turn your jean jacket inside out. Add a gentle detergent. Wash cold on a gentle tumble. Do not use warm water, as it can cause your jacket to shrink.

It’s best to wash your jacket alone or with similar denim pieces. Avoid combining dark wash or black denim with lighter colors, as they can bleed into each other. Additionally, cleaning your jean jacket with knits and other delicate fabrics can damage them due to the hardware.

3. HANG TO DRY

Instead of placing your denim jacket in the dryer, air-dry it. Place it on a hanger in an area with good air movement. Air drying is the best method because it minimizes shrinkage, preserves the structure, and limits damage.

If you need your denim jacket dried ASAP, you can use the drying machine, but don’t expect your jacket to maintain its quality for long. Use low heat and tumble alone.

METHOD 2: HAND-WASHING

If you’re willing to put in the effort to keep your denim jacket in pristine condition, hand-washing is the best approach.

1. GET YOUR JACKET READY

Remove any items from your denim jacket. Check your care label for detailed instructions. Use a stain remover of your choice to target any problem areas before washing.

2. PREPARE THE WASHING AREA

Fill a clean bucket, sink, or small tub with cold water and use a gentle detergent.

3. WORK IT OUT

Submerge your denim jacket in the cold water. Gently move the jacket around in the water so the detergent or soap can penetrate the fabric. Then, let it soak for 15 minutes.

4. AIR-DRY

Wring out your denim jacket and let it air-dry on a hanger in a well-ventilated area.

FINAL TIPS FOR CARING FOR YOUR JEAN JACKET

• Wash sparingly. Don’t wash your denim jacket after every use. Instead, wait ‘til at least 10 wears.
• Spot treat. If you get a stain on your jean jacket, target the specific spot ASAP by using a rag to dab on a small amount of mild detergent and gently lift the stain.
• Rotate your selection. Most of us have our go-to denim jacket, but give your fave a break by expanding your wardrobe with more high-quality, stylish denim jackets from True Religion.