How to wash jeans in washing machine without shrinking

You can wash jeans in a washing machine without shrinking them by using cold water, a gentle cycle, and avoiding heat while drying.

Cold water helps prevent the cotton fibres from tightening, which is what usually causes jeans to shrink. It also helps preserve the fit, protect the fabric, and reduce fading over time. Here is how you can easily wash your jeans in a washing machine without shrinking them.

Here's how to wash jeans in a washing machine

Jeans can absolutely go in the washing machine, as long as you’re careful. Most pairs of jeans are made of cotton, which tends to shrink when exposed to heat or rough washing.

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Therefore, the trick is to use cold water, be gentle, and skip the high heat when drying. Here’s how to wash your jeans the right way so they keep their fit, colour, and comfort.

1. Turn them inside out and wash in cold water

Before anything, flip your jeans inside out. This helps protect the outer fabric and minimises fading, especially with darker washes. Always use cold water as it prevents the cotton fibres from tightening, which is what causes most shrinking.

2. Pick a gentle cycle and use mild detergent

Set your washing machine to a gentle or delicate cycle. It reduces agitation so the fabric doesn’t get stressed or worn out too quickly. Pair it with a mild liquid detergent that’s easy on the material. Harsh cleaners or powder detergents can be too rough and may not dissolve fully in cold water.

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3. Avoid the dryer

Heat is your jeans’ worst enemy. To ensure safety, air-dry them by hanging them up or laying them flat. If you need to use a dryer, go for the lowest heat setting and take them out while they’re still slightly damp. This helps prevent shrinking and keeps the fit just right.

4. Don’t wash too often

Unless your jeans are actually dirty or smelly, they don’t need constant washing. Wearing them a few times between washes helps the fabric last longer and lowers the risk of shrinking or fading.