New research from FatFace has revealed that Britain may be washing its favourite jeans far more often than necessary, with everyday laundry habits potentially shortening the lifespan of denim.
From washing jeans after just a couple of wears to turning up the temperature too high, many of us could be accidentally damaging one of the hardest-working items in our wardrobes.
According to new research commissioned by British clothing brand FatFace, four in 10 people who wear jeans (40%) are washing them after every wear or every two to three wears — despite denim experts recommending that everyday jeans can often go between five and 10 wears before heading into the washing machine.
The research, carried out among more than 2,000 UK adults, also found that almost a quarter (23%) of people regularly wash their denim at temperatures above 40°C.
Are You Washing Your Jeans Too Often?
While regularly washing clothes may seem like the best way to keep them fresh, FatFace’s denim experts say that over-washing could be doing more harm than good.
Instead of automatically washing jeans after every outing, shoppers are encouraged to spot-clean small marks and air denim between wears.
Ellen Bowman, Garment Technologist and denim expert at FatFace, said that washing denim too frequently and at high temperatures can affect its appearance and fit over time.
“Both will cause the colour to fade faster, break down the fibres more quickly, and distort the stretch, changing the fit of the jeans over time,” she said.
FatFace recommends washing everyday denim at 30°C or below where possible, helping to preserve the fabric, colour and shape for longer.
One in 10 Brits Have Accidentally Shrunk Their Favourite Jeans
For some denim fans, the damage has already been done.
Nearly one in 10 respondents (9%) admitted they have accidentally shrunk a favourite pair of jeans, while 16% said they still regret throwing away a pair they loved.
But a denim disaster does not necessarily mean it is time to start shopping for a replacement.
FatFace’s experts suggest soaking shrunken jeans in lukewarm water for between 15 and 30 minutes before gently stretching the waistband, hips and legs back towards their original shape while the fabric is still damp.
Another option is to lightly dampen the jeans and wear them while they dry, allowing movement to help the fabric gradually mould back to the wearer’s shape.
Brits Want Their Denim to Last
Despite some questionable laundry habits, the research suggests that shoppers are increasingly looking for jeans that will stand the test of time.
Almost a third of respondents (32%) said they would rather invest in better-quality denim than continually replace cheaper pairs, while 16% still own a pair of jeans that is more than a decade old.
However, finding that perfect pair remains a challenge.
More than two in five Brits (45%) said they have never found a truly perfect pair of jeans, with inconsistent sizing between brands cited as one of the biggest frustrations.
Fit was also a major issue, with women more likely to report having to try on multiple pairs before finding the right option. Almost a fifth of women (19%) said they need to try on four or more pairs, compared with 9% of men.
And despite the search for the perfect fit, almost a third of respondents (32%) admitted they have bought jeans they have never actually worn.
FatFace Shares Five Tips to Make Your Jeans Last Longer
With denim designed to be worn season after season, a few simple changes to your laundry routine could help keep your favourite jeans looking and feeling better for longer.
1. Wash Less And Wear More
You do not necessarily need to wash your jeans after every wear. For everyday denim, FatFace recommends aiming for around five to 10 wears where possible, while spot-cleaning minor marks and airing jeans between uses.
More rigid denim can potentially go even longer between washes.
2. Keep Your Wash Cool
According to FatFace’s denim experts, 30°C is generally enough for washing jeans.
Higher temperatures can contribute to colour fading, fibre damage and changes to the stretch and fit of denim. Dark denim may also benefit from a colder wash to help preserve its colour.
3. Turn Jeans Inside Out Before Washing
Turning jeans inside out before placing them in the washing machine can help reduce surface abrasion and colour fading.
It is also worth fastening buttons and zips before washing to help protect the garment.
4. Avoid Fabric Conditioner And The Tumble Dryer
Fabric conditioner can leave residue on denim and may affect the fabric’s natural texture, while high temperatures from tumble drying can put additional stress on the fibres.
Instead, air-dry jeans naturally and reshape them while they are still damp. Keeping them out of direct sunlight can also help protect their colour.
5. Don’t Panic If Your Jeans Shrink
If your favourite pair has accidentally shrunk, there may still be hope.
Try soaking them in lukewarm water before gently stretching the fabric back towards its original shape while damp. Wearing lightly damp jeans as they dry may also help them gradually mould back to your body.
FatFace’s Denim Collection Is Designed for Everyday Life
As demand continues to grow for clothing designed to last, FatFace says its denim collection is made to be worn across seasons and styled for everyday life.
The range includes classic straight-leg and relaxed-fit jeans alongside denim jackets designed for year-round layering, with colourways including plum, chocolate and ivory.
With the right care, your favourite pair of jeans could potentially stay in your wardrobe for far longer — meaning the key to making denim last might simply be knowing when not to put it in the washing machine.
