Heads up denim fans... you're probably washing your jeans too much

A guide to not ruining your jeans...

How often you should wash your best jeans is a question that's as controversial as how often to wash your bra. People generally fall into two camps: there are those that swear you should never wash denim in case it loses its shape, and those that think it's just gross not to.

So we thought we'd settle the debate once and for all, by asking Jonathan Cheung, Head of Design at Levi’s® for his top denim care tips.

How often should you wash jeans?

Not too often - if you usually wash them once a week, try once every two weeks or every month instead. That said, if a pizza slice lands face-down on your lap, then it’s time to say hello to the washing machine.

Why shouldn't you wash jeans?

Jeans look better when washed infrequently. And you save water and energy.

How to wash jeans

When you do have to wash them, then I would recommend turning the jeans inside out and throw them in with your other dark clothing on a cool wash. Use a mild detergent, no bleach.

Should you wash a new pair of jeans?

Generally no. You don't need to. I'd say use your common sense. I'm often hunting for rare old jeans which may be musty and dusty. In those cases I might give them a quick wash before wearing.

How to keep jeans fresh in-between washes

You can spot clean the odd bit of dirt by dabbing the area with a damp cloth, otherwise pop them on a clothes line and hang them outside for some fresh air.

Our skinny jeans these days have amazing stretch-and-recovery technology. They 'ping back' into shape when stretched. But sometimes, especially with older skinny jeans, the knees may 'bag out' a little over the course of a long day. In those cases a quick ten minute blast in a warm tumble dryer with bring them back to shape.

Denim care tips

Don’t tumble dry your denim but rather air-dry them inside out. You’ll save water, energy and time - and your jeans will look better, denim is a fabric that gets better with age. When your jeans start to wear out after some time don't throw them away but repair them instead - this is something we can do for you at our Levi’s® Tailor Shop in all of our UK stores.