This is one of the oldest and most controversial questions since jeans became a thing in the 1800s.

Jeans were first created as durable materials for labourers and miners in the American West. Their comfort, performance, and durability were as much a hit then as they are now. However, today, people are slightly more focused on cleanliness and fashion than they were in the 1800s. Jeans are fashionable, durable (if maintained correctly) and never out of season.

So Are You Supposed to Wash Your Jeans?

Yes, you should wash your jeans. But not every time you wear them.

Generally, jeans should be washed after every 3-10 wears, or when they start to smell or show signs of dirt.

Overwashing can damage the shape and fit of your jeans, so it’s best to minimise washing unless necessary. This washing should be done minimally, not roughly, preferably without the use of washing machines or tough wash products like bleach, etc.

And while it is advised not to wash jeans regularly, this does not give the excuse to walk around with funky-smelling denim.

Reports show that a student at the University of Alberta wore his jeans for 15 months straight without a wash, then tested the bacteria levels.

He found that the jeans had just as much bacteria on them after 13 days of not washing them as they did after 15 months. A little gross, but in the name of science, as they say. So, scientifically, bacteria from 13 days on jeans do not necessarily increase after 15 months. But please, do not let months pass before washing them, especially when you wear them often!!! That’s just nasty…!

So, How Often Are You Supposed to Wash Jeans?

A good rule of thumb is to wash your jeans after every 3-10 wears. If you’re regularly active in your jeans (think: manual work, anything where you work up a sweat), wash them every 3 wears, but if you’re working at a desk, you can probably go through multiple wears without washing.

“…Stretch denim, in particular, tends to suffer from over-washing. The stretch fibres, while resistant to some extent, can lose their elasticity over time due to over-exposure to harsh detergents and hot water,” says DUER expert and Founder Gary Lenett, who worked with famous brands like Levi, Wrangler and Nordstrom.

“I recommend washing jeans, including stretch denim, after about ten wears, or when they become visibly dirty or carry a strong odour. Remember to wash your jeans in cold water, inside-out, and allow them to air dry to preserve their fit and colour. Your jeans are an investment; care for them wisely to ensure they last.”

See, even experts on jean production recommend at least every 10-15 wears.

Now, if you want to extend the amount of time and wear between washing your jeans (and conserve water), here are some handy techniques. Try these tricks out:

Hang them inside-out, in the sun – The UV radiation will help kill bacteria, and the fresh air will help with odour. Just make sure you turn them inside out so the sun doesn’t discolour them.

Put them in the freezer – This age-old trick isn’t as effective as some may think. Scientists say that your freezer isn’t cold enough to kill all odour-causing bacteria, but we figure freezing jeans won’t hurt them.

Steam them – You can hang them nearby while you’re in the shower or invest in a fabric steamer. The steam will freshen them up and help kill off germs.

Spot wash them – You don’t need to laundry the whole thing to get out stains. Hand wash spots with a wet cloth and mild detergent for a quick and sustainable alternative.

Soak them in cold water and vinegar – This technique locks in the dye, keeping your jeans dark and your furniture clean. The mild acid neutralises bacteria and eliminates smells.

Air dry 100% cotton jeans – Heat and tumbling are the worst possible combo for cotton-based fabric and can decrease your denim’s durability. However, jeans that are made with a combination of fibres that include elastin should be dried on low heat.

For ladies, wear a panty liner for crotch cleanliness and less smell and spot stains, especially when you want to go pantyless.

Avoid using bleached and powerful detergents: instead, go for more eco-friendly products such as green sheets, HMS(hand-made stone made from organic polymers and pumice dust), coconut husks, and organic detergents.

Frequently asked questions

Should I wash my jeans inside out?

Yes, washing jeans inside out can help preserve their colour and minimise fading. This practice protects the outer layer of the fabric from direct contact with detergent and agitation during the washing process, reducing the risk of colour loss or damage to embellishments like buttons or rivets.

Overall, do wash jeans in a friendly manner, not roughly, without bleach, in order to maintain their durability.