How to Wash and Care for Heavyweight Denim — The Right Way

Heavyweight denim is built to last. But only if you treat it properly. Here’s the Donestate guide to keeping your denim in the best condition for as long as possible.

Wash less. The single most effective thing you can do for denim longevity is wash it less frequently. Spot clean where possible. Air between wears. Denim doesn’t need washing after every use — and over-washing breaks down the fibres and fades the wash faster than wear ever would.

When you do wash — cold and gentle. Machine wash at 30°C on a gentle cycle. Hot water shrinks denim and accelerates colour loss. Turn the garment inside out before washing to protect the outer surface.

No bleach. Ever. Bleach degrades cotton fibres and destroys the integrity of the fabric. It’s not recoverable.

Tumble dry low or air dry. High heat in the dryer causes shrinkage and weakens the fabric over time. If you tumble dry, use a low heat setting. Air drying is always preferable — hang the garment by the waistband and reshape while damp.

Iron at low temperature. If ironing is needed, keep the temperature low and avoid ironing directly over any printed or embellished areas.

Follow these steps and your Donestate denim — whether it’s the Vintage Wash Barrel Leg Jeans, the Wide Leg Denim Shorts, or the Vintage Wash Denim Shorts — will hold its character and structure for years.