Jeans are a staple in most people’s wardrobes, but when laundry day comes around, many wonders: can you wash jeans with towels?
The answer is yes, but there are some guidelines to follow to ensure both fabrics are washed properly and without damage.
In this article, we’ll explain how to safely wash jeans with towels.
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You Can Wash Jeans with Towels (with some notes)
Washing jeans with towels is possible and can even have some benefits. One advantage is that it can save water and energy by combining two loads into one.
Besides, this method can help reduce the amount of friction that occurs during the wash cycle, which can cause color loss and wear over time.
Additionally, some people find that washing jeans with towels can help soften the denim fabric and make it more comfortable to wear.
While there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that washing jeans with towels can soften the denim fabric, many people swear by this laundry hack.
According to some, the added friction from washing towels along with jeans can help break down the stiff fibers in denim, resulting in a softer and more comfortable fabric.
Additionally, washing jeans with towels can help remove excess dye and starch, which can also contribute to a stiff and uncomfortable feel.
While the effectiveness of this method may vary depending on the specific jeans and towels being washed, many people find that it’s worth a try to achieve a softer, more comfortable fit.
What to Keep in Mind When Washing Jeans with Towels
While you can wash your jeans with a towel, there are certain risks involved.
Below we will list some of the basic risks and how to deal with them!
- Risk 1: Color transfer
If the towels are brightly colored or have been washed with other fabrics that bleed, the dye can transfer onto the denim and cause discoloration or staining.
- Risk 2: Lint buildup
Towels tend to shed more lint than jeans, which can cling to the denim fabric and make it look fuzzy or dull.
- Solution
The general rule of thumb is to wash similar fabrics together. This means that if your towels are made of cotton or another natural fiber, and your jeans are also made of cotton or a cotton blend, you can wash them together without too much risk of damage or color transfer.
However, if your towels are made of a synthetic fabric like polyester or nylon, or if they are brightly colored or patterned, it’s best to wash them separately from your jeans to avoid any potential issues.
There are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that both fabrics come out clean and undamaged.
- First, be sure to turn your jeans inside out before washing them to help prevent color loss and protect any embellishments or details.
- Second, avoid using too much detergent or fabric softener, as these can leave residue on the fabric and cause it to look dull or stiff.
- Finally, use a gentle or delicate cycle and a low or medium temperature setting to reduce the amount of friction between the fabrics and prevent any shrinkage or stretching.
In fact, today many manufacturers (such as Wrangler or Levi’s) have done a very good job of limiting these risks.
If you want to be as safe as possible, you should choose high-quality towels and jeans that are highly rated on the market. This way, you will rarely have problems with color transferring or lint clinging to jeans.
How to Wash Jeans with Towels
To wash jeans with towels, follow these steps:
1. Sort by color and fabric type. Separate light and dark-colored items and sort them by fabric type. It’s best to wash similar fabrics together to avoid damage or color transfer.
2. Turn jeans inside out. This helps prevent color loss and protects any embellishments or details.
3. Use a gentle cycle. Choose a gentle or delicate cycle to reduce friction between the fabrics and prevent any shrinkage or stretching. Avoid using a heavy-duty or high-spin cycle, which can cause pilling and wear over time.
4. Use cold or warm water. Cold or warm water is best for washing denim and towels, as hot water can cause shrinking, fading, and damage to the fabrics.
5. Use a mild detergent. Use a mild detergent and avoid using too much to prevent any residue buildup on the fabrics. Fabric softeners are not recommended for denim, as they can cause stiffness and discoloration.
6. Avoid overloading the washer. To ensure that the fabrics are cleaned properly, don’t overload the washer. Make sure there’s enough space for the water and detergent to circulate.
7. Avoid using bleach. Bleach can cause discoloration and damage to both denim and towels. Instead, use a color-safe bleach or vinegar to brighten white fabrics.
8. Tumble dry on low heat. After washing, tumble dry the fabrics on low heat. Avoid high heat, as it can cause shrinkage and damage to the fabrics.
Conclusion
In conclusion, washing jeans with towels is possible and can even have some benefits, but it’s important to follow some guidelines to ensure that both fabrics are washed properly and without damage.
By sorting by color and fabric type, turning jeans inside out, using a gentle cycle, and avoiding overloading the washer, you can safely wash jeans with towels.
Additionally, using a mild detergent, avoiding bleach, and tumble drying on low heat can help prolong the life of both fabrics.
By following these tips, you can keep your denim and towels looking fresh and clean.