How to wash a denim jacket: a step-by-step guide
Denim jackets are a timeless fashion staple and with proper care, they can last a long time. To keep your denim jacket looking fresh, follow this step-by-step guide on how to wash a denim jacket in a washer or by hand. With just a few simple steps you’ll be able to preserve your family’s denim pieces and keep them looking clean.
Can you wash a denim jacket?
When the time comes that your jean jacket needs a refresh, you can give it a wash by hand or with the help of your washing machine as long as the instructions on the laundry care label allow it.
Like your favorite pair of jeans, you can and should wash your denim jackets when necessary. As with other pieces of outerwear, jean jackets can typically last a little longer between washes compared to your other pieces of clothing, as they are less likely to become heavily soiled after one to two wears.
Does washing denim ruin it?
No, washing denim does not ruin it as long as you take the proper precautions. Improper care can affect the color and integrity of your jacket. Avoid using hot water when washing your jean jacket and make sure all buttons or zippers are closed to protect the jacket from damage. And, as always, follow the washing instructions on your item’s care tag before washing, as every garment is different.
Is it better to hand wash denim?
Hand washing is typically a gentler approach to clothing care — some garments will even give instructions to only wash by hand. However, most denim can be properly cared for in a washing machine when you use the right settings and water temperatures.
How to clean a denim jacket in the washing machine
If your staple jean jacket needs a quick refresh, you can easily wash it in your washing machine using the following instructions and tips. Always consult your laundry’s care labels before using a washing machine for proper cleaning.
Supplies
Gentle detergent or HE detergent, depending on your washer
Stain treatment (optional)
Tools
- Washing machine, like this Top Load Washer with Pretreat Station from Whirlpool brand
Step 1: Prep the jacket for washing
Before you send your denim jacket through the wash cycle, pretreat any stains. Consult the jacket’s care label for specific stain removal instructions.
To protect the denim fibers of your jacket from friction, turn it inside out and make sure all buttons are buttoned. Zip up any zippers and check the pockets for loose change or other small items that may fall out during the wash cycle.
Step 2: Place in the washer and add detergent
Gently place the jacket inside the washer drum and close the door. Add a laundry detergent with a gentle formula into your washer’s detergent dispenser, following the packaging instructions on dosage. If you have an HE washing machine, be sure to use an HE formulated detergent.
Tip:
Dyed denim, especially when new, tends to bleed during the wash cycle. You may want to wash your jean jackets separately from your other laundry items or only with garments in a similar color.
Step 3: Select a wash cycle and temperature
Despite being a sturdy fabric, it is recommended to wash denim using a gentle or delicate wash cycle. Select the gentle cycle on your washer and set the water temperature to cold, then press start.
Step 4: Dry your jacket
Once the wash cycle has ended, remove your jean jacket from the washing machine. Heat can cause shrinkage in denim, so it is recommended to either hang your denim jacket to air dry or select a low or no heat drying cycle.
How to clean a denim jacket by hand
If you would rather wash your jean jacket by hand, read on below for step-by-step instructions.
Supplies
- Gentle detergent, like the Swash® Free & Clear Laundry Detergent
Stain treatment
Tools
Large tub or bucket
Step 1: Prep jacket and pretreat stains
Before washing, check your jacket for any areas that need special attention. If there are stains on the fabric, pretreat them with a stain remover. Consult the care label of the jacket for specific instructions for stain removal. Turn the jacket inside out and close all buttons and zippers to protect from snags.
Step 2: Fill tub with water and detergent
Fill your tub or bucket with cold water and add in a gentle detergent. Make sure to dissolve the detergent before adding your denim jacket.
Step 3: Soak and rinse
Lay your denim jacket in the water and let it soak for 30 to 45 minutes. After soaking, drain the water and fill again with fresh cold water to rinse out any residue from the detergent. Let sit for at least 10 minutes before draining again. Repeat until the water runs clear.
Step 4: Hang to dry
After your jacket is washed and rinsed, hang it up to dry in a cool, well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight as this can cause fading.
Do jean jackets shrink in the wash?
Some denim jackets are sold pre-shrunk, while others require special care to avoid shrinkage during the washing process. To prevent shrinkage as best you can, always use cold water and hang dry instead of exposing your denim jacket to hot water or a heated dry cycle.
When can you wash a raw denim jacket?
It is recommended to wait at least 3–6 months before washing raw denim jackets. This allows the fabric time to stretch and conform to your body so that you get a personalized fit. If you plan to wash raw denim, only use cold water and hang dry for best results.
How do you clean raw denim without machine washing it?
The steps for cleaning raw denim by hand are similar to the instructions for other types of denim. Soak the denim in cold water with a gentle detergent and scrub gently. Once finished, rinse and hang dry, avoiding direct sunlight to preserve color and shape.
How do you spot treat stains on a denim jacket?
Spot treating stains on a denim jacket is a relatively easy process. Start by checking the jacket’s label for any specific instructions on how to treat stains. General steps include spraying the stained area with a denim-safe stain remover and letting it sit for 3-5 minutes before gently scrubbing the fabric with a soft brush or sponge. Then, rinse away any residue and repeat if necessary.
Tips for washing jean jackets
To get the most out of your laundry day, use the following tips for washing your family’s denim jackets.
When drying your jeans, remove them from the dryer or drying rack while still slightly damp and gently stretch the seams.
To get rid of excess water while hand washing your jackets, carefully fold or roll the jacket before squeezing out the water. Avoid wringing out excess water as this can alter the fit and shape.
Use a lint roller on your jackets before washing to remove excess lint and hair from the fabric.
If your jacket has lost its shape after a wash, use a steam iron to help mold it back into its original fit.
Explore Whirlpool® washers
Whirlpool® washers have the features and designs to help you care for your family’s laundry. Shop front load and top load washer options with features on select models like the Load & Go™ Dispenser and 12-Hour FanFresh® Option that help you stay on top of laundry day.
Learn how to wash household items with Whirlpool brand
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