How to Wash Denim: a TLC x Fanfare Care Guide
Denim is a sturdy, classic and versatile fabric with a distinctive twill weave that creates a diagonal pattern. It is typically dyed with indigo, which gives it a blue colour, although it can also come in other colours, and has been around for centuries. Denim was originally used for workwear due to its durability and resistance to wear and tear, but it has since become a popular fabric for fashion clothing, especially jeans.
Today, denim is used not only for clothing but also for accessories and home furnishings. It is a durable and long-lasting material that can withstand wear and tear, making it a popular choice for many people.
However, improper care and over-washing can cause denim to fade, shrink, or lose its shape. Therefore, it is essential to know how to care for your denim correctly. We have partnered with Fanfare Label, an independent fashion house, to give you a few tips to make your denim care more efficient and easy.
How To Care For Denim Jeans
TIP 1: Wash less, not more
It's essential to wash your denim clothing only when necessary and to use a gentle, denim-specific wash. We recommend using a specialist detergent because most store-bought traditional powders still use unnecessarily harsh chemicals that contribute to the detriment of the fabric fibres. These detergents are full of phosphates, bleach, and synthetic fragrances that strip the jeans from their soft, colourful properties.
TIP 2: Cold not hot
Does denim shrink in the wash? The answer is yes IF washed on high-temperature cycles. Whether you are hand washing your jeans or using the washing machine, we recommend always using lukewarm or cold water. The cold water helps retain the colour and shape you love so much from your Fanfare jeans. You can also machine wash denim jackets as long as you take proper care.
Advice:
Turn your jeans inside out. This prevents the fabric from rubbing against other clothes, which can cause abrasion and further damage to your denim garments.
TIP 3: Refresh, not wash
Most times, all your Fanfare jeans need is a quick refresh. To keep your denim fresh on a daily, spot-clean and refresh your items with a fabric mist. As always, we recommend opting for a non-bio, natural spot cleaner, as most stain removers use harsh chemicals such as bleach that are more likely to damage your jeans. For a fragrance boost, use a naturally fragranced denim mist.
TIP 4: Air dry
We have mentioned that using heat on your denim will eventually cause it to shrink and lose its shape. The heat from the dryer can cause the fibres in your denim to break down, leading to fading, shrinkage, and damage to the fabric. Instead of tumble drying, opt for air drying. Simply hang your clothing on a clothes horse or lay them flat on a towel to air dry overnight. This way your denim clothing will retain its shape and colour for much longer.
