A little less washing. A little more care.

There is no single washing schedule for every pair of jeans. How often you wear them, what you do in them and the fabric all matter. The care label is the starting point. Visible dirt, smells and your own hygiene needs matter more than a fixed number of wears.

Between washes

Air your jeans in a well-ventilated place. For a small mark, follow the care label and test gentle spot-cleaning on an inconspicuous area first. Avoid vigorous rubbing, which can change the colour in one spot.

When it is time to wash

• Empty the pockets and remove detachable accessories, including pins.
• Check the care label for temperature, cycle and drying instructions.
• Turn the jeans inside out and wash with similar colours.
• Use an appropriate detergent and avoid using more than its instructions recommend.

New dark denim can transfer colour. Take care around pale upholstery and wash separately where the label advises it.

Dry gently

Air-drying can be a useful option when the label allows it. Reshape the jeans while damp and avoid direct strong sunlight if colour preservation is your priority. Do not use high heat as a quick fit adjustment: shrinkage can be uneven, and stretch fibres need particular care.

Skip the shortcuts

Putting jeans in a freezer is not a substitute for washing. A fragrance spray is not cleaning either. Choose the simplest routine that keeps your jeans clean and comfortable, and treat special finishes according to their own instructions.