How many times should I wear jeans before washing them?
Asked by: Leila Sanford | Last update: January 31, 2026Score: 4.5/5 (67 votes)
You should wash jeans after about 5-10 wears, or when they are visibly dirty or smelly, as denim is durable and frequent washing fades color and breaks down fabric; for heavy sweating or dirt, wash sooner (every 3 wears), but for light wear, you can go longer, spot-cleaning between washes to maintain them.
How often should I wear jeans before washing?
A good rule of thumb is to wash your jeans after about 10 wears, unless they are visibly dirty or start to smell. Between washes, spot clean any stains with a mild soap and a damp cloth or an old toothbrush.
What is the double denim rule?
The "double denim rule" (or "Canadian tuxedo") is a styling guideline for wearing two denim pieces together, emphasizing contrast in washes (light with dark), mixing proportions (fitted top with loose bottoms), and breaking up the look with neutrals like a white tee or belt to avoid a uniform, dated appearance, making the look intentional rather than accidental.
How long can you wear a pair of jeans without washing them?
To keep your denim looking fresh and vibrant, it's best to wash them only when they're visibly dirty or have an odor. A good rule of thumb is to wash your jeans every five to ten wears. Instead of tossing them in the hamper after every wear, try spot cleaning them as needed.
Is it okay to wear the same jeans for 2 days?
Some items, like jeans, jackets, and sweaters, can be safely worn multiple times since they don't cling directly to the skin. But for underwear, socks, and workout clothes, washing after every use is a must they trap sweat and bacteria that can lead to odor or irritation.
I never wash my pants (why you shouldn't either).
What is the 3-3-3 rule for outfits?
The "333 rule" in clothing refers to two popular minimalist challenges: Project 333, where you use only 33 items (clothes, shoes, accessories) for 3 months to reduce decision fatigue; and a simpler viral TikTok trend using 3 tops, 3 bottoms, and 3 shoes to create multiple outfits, proving minimalism's versatility. Both methods encourage purposeful, curated wardrobes, reducing overconsumption and simplifying getting dressed by focusing on versatile pieces.
What does Gen Z think of skinny jeans?
Gen Z generally views skinny jeans as outdated ("cheugy"), associating them with millennials and preferring looser, more comfortable styles like wide-leg, straight, mom, and flare jeans for their comfort and effortless look, though a recent subtle comeback is being noted, especially through specific influencers and styling, but the overall sentiment remains critical of the tight fit. They often criticize skinny jeans for being uncomfortable, unflattering, and symbolic of a past era, leading to online trends mocking them, yet some argue they can work if styled intentionally for certain aesthetics like indie or rocker looks, as reported by Reddit users.
Can I put jeans in the dryer?
Yes, you can put jeans in the dryer, but it's generally best to use low or no heat and remove them while slightly damp to prevent shrinking, fading, and damage to stretch fibers, with air drying being the gentlest option for preserving them. If you must use a dryer, a 10-15 minute tumble on low heat or the "air fluff" cycle helps remove wrinkles and speeds drying, followed by hang drying to finish.
Is it okay if I never wash my jeans?
The Takeaway
Denim will last longer if you don't wash them after every single wearing, but it can harbor both bacteria and dirt. Washing your jeans correctly will keep them clean and may also revive their shape for a better fit.
What is unwashed denim called?
Raw denim is also known as 'dry denim' and 'unwashed denim. ' Raw denim jeans from The Flat Head, photographed at Rivet and Hide. Once they've been cut and sewn, all jeans are raw. From a functional standpoint, they don't need any further processing and are ready to be worn.
What is the 2 finger rule for jeans?
A Common Rule With Uncommon Flaws
That's where the so-called 2 finger rule comes in. At its core, it's a quick-fit check: when the jeans are fastened, can you fit two fingers horizontally between your waistband and your skin? Too tight? You'll barely slide one finger in.
What is the 7 rule for outfits?
It is a very simple set of parameters to help you build better outfits. The goal is to get to seven or eight points in your outfit. Each item in your outfit is worth one point. Statement pieces are worth two points.
What jeans are not in style in 2025?
For 2025, overly distressed jeans (lots of holes), extremely low-rise styles, and very skinny, tight jeggings are less in style, with trends favoring cleaner finishes, longer hemlines (like floor-grazing), and versatile, relaxed fits such as straight-leg, baggy, or polished wide-leg jeans, alongside emerging slim-straight or modernized bootcuts.
How many times do Levi's say to wear jeans before washing?
Washing denim too frequently can cause them to lose their shape and fit. Wash them once every 10 wears at most to keep them fitting correctly and minimize sagging. Use a damp cloth or old toothbrush with mild soap to remove small stains between washes instead of a full cycle.
What is the best detergent for jeans?
A detergent like Tide plus a Touch of Downy helps improve the quality of your jeans by trimming down stray fibers, and protects them from discoloration, pilling, and fading. Make sure to only wash your jeans with other deep-colored clothing.
Why do you turn jeans inside out to wash?
2. Wash jeans inside out and by themselves. Turn your jeans inside out when washing them to help protect the fibers on the outside of the jeans from friction and direct exposure from detergent, which helps prevent fading. However, it's not rare for jeans to bleed dye, especially if they're new.
Did Levi's CEO say not to wash jeans?
Our own CEO, Chip Bergh, received global attention for his now-famous proclamation that he does not wash his jeans unless absolutely necessary. Spot clean? Yes.
Do washing machines ruin jeans?
Use cold water (30°C or less) and the gentle/delicate program on your washing machine to avoid shrinking or damaging the material. Add a mild laundry detergent to your machine to prevent the jeans from fading. Avoid using fabric softener, as this can affect the fabric and alter the colour of your jeans.
How long do jeans last?
On average, a well-maintained pair of jeans can last anywhere from 2 to 10 years or even longer. However, this estimate can vary widely based on the factors mentioned above. High-quality jeans, like raw selvedge denim, can last much longer with proper care and infrequent washing.
Should you wash jeans on 30 or 40?
Wash jeans at 30°C (cold) for longevity, color retention, and to prevent shrinkage, especially for stretch denim; use 40°C (warm) only if they are very dirty or to intentionally re-shrink an overstretched pair, but expect more fading and potential shrinkage. Always turn jeans inside out and use a gentle cycle for best results.
Should I let my jeans air dry?
With the exception of raw denim, most jeans have been washed several times during their production process so by the time they are purchased, most of the shrinking that will occur has already taken place. The best way to reduce additional shrinkage is to air dry your jeans after washing.
How to make jeans last longer?
9 Helpful Hacks to Make Your Jeans Last Longer
- Denim Care 101: 1. Wash When Needed.
- Wash Them Separately.
- Use Mild or Specialist Denim Detergents.
- Cold Water Wash.
- Wash Inside Out.
- Do NOT Tumble Dry.
- Iron Your Jeans.
- Use Your Jeans Well.
Why does Gen Z not dress up?
For them, fashion is not just about clothing but about what it stands for. Gen Z uses fashion to express who they are at work. It's like an extension of their identity, and they prefer offices with no rigid dress codes. They stand by their commitment to be their own selves.
Are people still wearing skinny jeans in 2025?
Yes, skinny jeans are back in style for 2025, but they've evolved into a more modern, "skinny-esque" fit that's slimmer but not painted-on tight, often with a tapered ankle, and styled with updated pieces like knee-high boots or polished flats rather than old oversized pairings. This revival, seen on runways and in street style, brings a cleaner silhouette, but the key is to update your styling to keep the look current.
What body types look best in skinny jeans?
Skinny jeans or slim models are more suited to slim or athletic figures, to the hourglass body shape (defined waist, balanced hips and shoulders), or to the H shape (not very defined waist, with aligned shoulders and hips).