Washing jeans should protect both their colour and their shape. Start with the label: rigid denim, stretch blends and decorated styles do not always need the same care.
Prepare the pair
Empty pockets, close the zip and turn the jeans inside out. Separate dark pairs from pale textiles, especially during early washes. Avoid scrubbing a stain aggressively: the resulting light patch may remain even after the dirt has gone.
Levi’s denim-care guidance recommends washing its denim inside out, in cold water on a gentle cycle. This is brand guidance rather than a guarantee that every pair of jeans behaves identically.
Match the programme to the label
Choose detergent suitable for coloured laundry and follow its dosing instructions. Avoid improvised bleach mixtures or kitchen-made colour fixatives. A cooler programme may suit the item; our guide to washing in cold water explains the limits.
Leave room in the drum and avoid mixing heavy jeans with very delicate garments. If a stain remains, identify its source before repeating the cycle. See removing stains from clothes for a cautious starting point.
Drying and storage
Release creases and follow the drying symbols. Intense heat is not a suitable shortcut for every denim fabric, particularly stretch blends. Do not put jeans away damp or assume a spell in the freezer replaces cleaning.
Frequently asked questions
Should jeans be washed after every wear?
Check for odours, stains and the effects of skin contact. No universal number of wears suits every person and pair.
Will vinegar prevent fading?
Do not treat a household recipe as a guarantee of colour fixation. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and discreetly test any compatible treatment.
