ask stylebook: how to care for denim
Emily: How should I care for my denim? Anything I need to know?
Molly, Kiskadee: The key to keeping your denim pieces from fading, shrinking, or otherwise deteriorating? Don’t wash them! Jeans were originally designed to endure the rigors of a blue-collar workday, so they’re tough. However, they exist in today’s world as a high-fashion staple, so maintaining the structure and color is essential. Here are three tips to help you keep your jeans looking like they did when you first got ‘em!
Vinegar: You heard me! One cup of distilled, white vinegar in a cold-water bath will lock in the dye. The vinegar odor you’re worrying about while reading this I assure you goes away after they dry! If you are in a hurry, toss a cup of vinegar in the washing machine on hand wash setting without any detergent.
Steam Shower: Water, no matter what temperature, can cause it to swell or shrink. Unless you’re outside playing in dirt, your jeans probably aren’t very dirty, so hanging them in the bathroom while you shower will do the trick, without causing any damage.
Hang to dry: Always. If you must use a drier, use tumble dry on low temp, but use sparingly!
When it comes to caring for your denim, less is more!
