How-to: Care for denim

How do I care for my denim?

Recently, Esquire Magazine reported on the best way to care for denim, saying that denim is often over-dyed, that water and harsh detergents will break down the denim and cause the dye to fade. They went on to say, “the buildup of dirt, skin, your natural body oils, and environmental grime will also cause the material to break down.” Reality check – simply wearing denim will take a toll on the material!

Given these facts, Esquire recommends in the spirit of cleanliness that you clean your jeans because "you’ll ensure they last longer.”

The gentlest and most effective way to care for expensive denim is to bring it into a professional cleaner. The dry cleaning process is water-free – so the ‘water wash-off’ of dye is eliminated. Besides, the dry cleaning process itself is inherently gentle. Note: Top loading home washers are rough and tumble by nature, creating a lot of mechanical action that can break down fibers.

If you wash your kid's jeans at home, be sure to turn them inside out, use a gentle detergent, a short cycle, and cool water. Esquire recommended air drying your denim, but if you must use a standard dryer, avoid using high heat.