You’ve invested in your denim, and taking proper care of your jeans will ensure they last for the long haul. While there’s conflicting info out there on how to wash (or not wash) them, we’ve done the research on the best ways to care for your trusty blues.

Unsure of how to take care of your denim? Here’s how to wash your favorite jeans.

Washing Less is More

Unless you are wearing your jeans every day from sun up to sun down, you can wait in between washes. Not smelly nor soiled? Avoid tossing them into the washing machine after every wear. Skipping frequent washes helps prolong the life of your jeans—aim to get four to five wears out of them. White and light-colored denim is the exception to the rule as it’s prone to getting dirty or dingy.

Wash Gently

Think twice before tossing your favorite jeans into the washing machine with your other laundry. With a little bit of extra care, you’ll extend the life of your denim while ensuring you have the perfect fit every time you put them on.

• Handwashing is always the most gentle wash option. Fill your bathtub or sink with water, add a gentle detergent and let soak.
• If you prefer using your washing machine, opt for a gentle cycle. Turn your denim inside out to help prevent fade.
• Consider the wash of your denim. Cold water helps dark wash denim retain color; however, hot water cycles clean clothes better. Wash your denim sporadically in warm water for the best of both worlds.
• Denim is a dyed fabric that will bleed as you wash. Protect your other clothes by washing all of your denim in its own load. The wash cycle creates friction between your jeans and other articles of clothing, so washing your jeans alone also avoids wear and tear on other clothes.

Stylist Tip: We know you’re eager to rock your new denim, but washing before you wear them ensures the dye doesn’t rub off onto your skin, upholstery and other clothes. Plus, denim bleeds the most right after you pop the tag.

Dry With Care

Denim is constructed with a cotton or cotton-blend fabric that is woven for the ultimate in strength and comfort. The higher the cotton content, the more stretch you will encounter as the denim weave pulls or “stretches out.” Drying your jeans correctly will help with keeping your denim in perfect shape.

Hang dry your jeans in the shade to avoid shrinkage and fading—the less heat you can use, the better. Jeans feeling a little loose? Do toss them in the dryer on medium to low heat.

As a rule of thumb, try to size down when buying new denim. This will account for any stretch that will naturally happen as you wear them day to day.

—Sheri F.

Now that you know how to wash denim, why not add a pair or two to your wardrobe? Take your style quiz, order a Fix and request outfits with jeans. You’ll receive five items hand-picked just for you to try on at home. Purchase what you like, send back the rest. Shipping and returns are always free.