HOW TO WASH A DENIM JACKET THE RIGHT WAY
Denim jackets are durable and dependable items to keep in your closet, but proper care is essential to making them last. Use the following guide to learn how to keep your denim jacket clean and in good condition.
SHOULD YOU WASH A DENIM JACKET?
Though it isn’t necessary to wash jean jackets after every wear, a regular cleaning schedule can help keep your jackets looking and smelling their best. You should wash your denim jacket if it has any stains or visible soils, if you wear it in hot or rainy weather, or after it has been worn for several weeks.
CAN I PUT A DENIM JACKET IN THE WASHING MACHINE?
Yes, you can usually put a denim jacket in the washing machine—however, it’s important to consider some key factors first. Be sure to check the care tag on your jacket to ensure it is machine washable and adjust wash settings accordingly. Hot water may cause colors to fade and fabrics to shrink, so it’s recommended to choose a cold cycle instead.
Hand washing garments is often the gentler cleaning method, and some jean jackets—especially ones with embroidery, patches or other decorative elements—may have “hand wash only” instructions listed on their care label. If this is the case, be sure to follow these instructions and wash your jacket by hand.
HOW TO MACHINE WASH A DENIM JACKET
Washing a jean jacket in the washing machine is a pretty simple and straightforward process. Use the following step-by-step instructions in tandem with the directions on your laundry care label to refresh your favorite denim jacket.
SUPPLIES
Detergent, preferably a gentle or HE formula depending on your washer
Stain treatment (optional)
TOOLS
- Washing machine, like the Smart Top Load Washer with Extra Power Button from Maytag brand
STEP 1: EMPTY POCKETS AND REMOVE ANY PINS, TAGS ETC.
Remove small items like loose change from the jacket pockets and take off any removable pins or tags. Secure zippers and buttons to protect them during the wash cycle.
STEP 2: TREAT STAINS
Before sending your jacket through a wash cycle, spot treat oil, grease, grass, ink and other stains using a liquid detergent or stain-removing formula. Consult the jacket’s care label for specific stain removal instructions. After you’ve treated any stains, turn the jacket inside out to help protect the fibers of the denim from any friction that may occur during washing.
STEP 3: PLACE IN WASHER AND ADD DETERGENT
Once you’ve prepped your jacket for cleaning, place it gently in the washer. New or freshly dyed denim can be prone to color bleeding during a wash cycle, so you may want to wash the jacket separately from the rest of your household laundry.
Following the packaging instructions, add the prescribed amount of detergent to your machine’s dispenser. If you have an HE washing machine, make sure to only use HE formulated detergent. Avoid using fabric softener on your denim garments as it can create buildup over time.
STEP 4: SELECT THE WASH CYCLE AND START
Close the washing machine and select the wash cycle and water temperature indicated on your jacket’s care label, then press start. Although denim is a substantial fabric, it is often recommended to only wash it using a gentle cycle to protect the fibers from unnecessary friction. Only wash denim using cold water to help prevent shrinkage and fading.
CAN I PUT MY DENIM JACKET IN THE DRYER?
Hanging your jean jacket to air dry is the gentler option; however, it may take longer to dry completely. If you’re short on time, dry the jacket using a low or no heat drying cycle. It isn’t recommended to use a heated tumble dry cycle as heat can lead to fabric shrinkage. Be mindful to not use dryer sheets that contain fabric softeners.
DOES A DENIM JACKET SHRINK AFTER WASHING?
Yes, a denim jacket can shrink after washing if it is exposed to hot water or high heat in the dryer. To help prevent shrinking, always use cold water and hang your jacket to dry. Some jean jackets are sold pre-shrunk and may not require as much special care during the cleaning process, so be sure to consult the jacket’s care label.
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