Washing New Jeans Here’s How To Avoid Fabric Bleeding
DION LAMAR MILLS FOR BYRDIE
In This Article
There’s nothing quite like finding the perfect pair of dark denim jeans that fit just right, feel comfortable, and look good for every occasion. That is, until you see the dye bleeding onto everything from your sneakers to your sweaterand sometimes even your skin. Unfortunately, the indigo dye that’s used to create that inky, dark look is notorious for bleeding. This can also happen after several washes and with high-end designer denim, too. But before you lose all hope, we’re here to tell you that there are things you can do to prevent your dark jeans from losing their dye and keep them looking brand new, from a simple cold cycle in the washing machine to a more involved vinegar soak in a bucket or the bathtub.
Keep scrolling to learn how to avoid fabric bleeding on your dark denim jeans.
Do Black Jeans Fade When Washed
Black jeans are one of the most versatile clothing items that a person can own. They can be dressed up or down and are appropriate for a variety of occasions. One question that many people have about black jeans is whether or not they will fade when they are washed. The good news is that black jeans generally do not fade when they are washed. This is because the dye used to color black jeans is very strong and resistant to fading. However, there are a few things that you can do to help keep your black jeans looking their best. First, wash them in cold water and avoid using harsh detergents. Second, hang them to dry instead of putting them in the dryer. By following these simple tips, you can help ensure that your black jeans will retain their color and continue to look great wash after wash.
Theres no need to give up on your black jeans before theyve faded you can avoid this by washing them and caring for them. Cold water is a great way to reduce the bleeding that occurs when denim is dyed. Instead of washing them, mist and freeze your jeans. If you steam or use an iron to freshen up your jeans, they will become more appealing. Starting with a bucket of cold water and white vinegar, you can ensure that black jeans will not fade. If the color of your pants bleeds, wash them in cold water in the washing machine to prevent the bleed. If the original color of the denim fades away, it can be re-dyed.
Add A Teaspoon Of Salt
And if you’re really open to trying something new, try adding a teaspoon of salt to your black jeans load, per The Concourse’s suggestion. This can help set your dye in to prevent your jeans from bleeding too much.
Pretty simple, amiritie? And just in case you really don’t want to wash your jeans, I always find it easy to mist instead of wash. Or just minimize the amount of times you wear them. Easy, peasy!
Images: Courtesy of Brands Courtesy of Author Kaboompics, Suppenkasper/Pixabay
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Ways To Keep Black Jeans From Fading
Black jeans are one of the most versatile pieces in a wardrobe. They can be dressed up or down to fit almost any occasion. But how do you keep your favorite black jeans looking their darkest?
With all the different washes, treatments, and hacks available, it’s hard to know the best way to take care of them! Luckily, weve put together this post to explain why black jeans fade, what you might be doing wrong to contribute to their fading, and how to keep black jeans looking their darkest.
Lets get started:
Hand Wash Or Use The Gentle Cycle

Wash black jeans on the most gentle setting available on your washing machine. The gentle or delicate cycle is good, but if your washing machine has a hand washing setting, choose that.
Youll want a wash cycle with the lowest spin speed for your black jeans if you choose to wash them in the machine. Alternatively, you can hand wash your black jeans which will actually help retain their color.
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How To Keep Your Jeans Looking New
Jeans are a staple in any wardrobe, but they can also wear out over time. Vinegar can help to keep the color in and eliminate the need for a permanent stain, allowing you to keep your home looking like it was never there. To avoid friction, wash your jeans in a cold/cold cycle and avoid washing them with water. If you want to keep your jeans looking their best, store them in the freezer or carefully dry them after washing.
Are Black Jeans Fade Proof
Finding a way to keep black jeans from fading is something that most people struggle with. But with a few tricks you can keep your jeans looking good for a long time. The trick is to wear cotton underlayers. There are a few different ways to do this. One is to use a washable material, like the cotton pillowcase we have given you. Then add a layer of washable material that will protect your jeans. Then layer a waterproof protector over the top. You can also use a pair of denim underpants that have a pocket on the outside. Then layer a waterproof protector over the top. The waterproof protector is the trickiest part. It should be waterproof, but still have some stretch to it. A pair of stretch pants will also work, as long as they are in a dark color and are stretchy. When wearing black jeans, it is important to make sure to wash them in cold water and not to wear them in the shower. Cold water and air dry them.
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Can You Make Faded Black Clothes Black Again
It may be possible to restore faded black clothes, depending on how much fading there is, the fabric and type of clothing. … And if you don’t want to dye the clothing, try a wash in white vinegar, as this can restore the black color because it removes built-up soap residue from the black clothing.
How Do You Wash Black Jeans With Vinegar
Yes, vinegar. Add one cup of distilled white vinegar to a cold water bath and soak your jeans for about an hour. Hang or lay flat to dry, and don’t worry about smelling like vinegarthe odor goes away after your pants dry. This technique locks in the dye’s color, keeping your jeans dark and your furniture clean.
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Wash Black Jeans With Cold Water
Machine washing your black jeans in cold water prevents the fibers from releasing dye. The cold water actually helps trap the dye inside the fabric and prevents color bleeding. Washing your jeans in warm or hot water will speed up fading and cause them to shrink, so washing in cold water is always best.
Soak Your Black Color Jeans In Vinegar
Soaking your jeans in vinegar is not only a great way to keep them clean and preserve the black dye, but it will also save you a trip to the laundromat if you donât have a washer in your own home. Fill up your bathtub with cold water and add one cup of distilled white vinegar. Let the jeans soak in the tub for an hour before hanging them out to dry. It may sound odd to wash your jeans in vinegar since vinegar is a notoriously stinking solution.
But once your jeans air out, the strong odor will completely disappear and you wonât have to worry about wearing jeans that smell like vinegar. If you still plan to wash your jeans in a machine, avoid detergent which will wreak havoc on your jeans and speed up the fading process. Laundry detergent is no friend to your jeans. Instead, throw them in the washer with a cup of distilled white vinegar, avoiding any other harsh cleaning solution. Your jeans will get thoroughly cleaned and the color will remain safe.
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Add Vinegar To Your Cold Water Rinse
We know vinegar to be a household staple, but it has some serious benefits for your wardrobe, too. White vinegar contains acetic acid, a mild acid that helps to lock in dye and prevent fabric bleeding on dark indigo jeans, especially if you treat them when they’re brand new. Plus, vinegar is also a natural bacteria killer that neutralizes nasty germs that may be living on your jeans . Vinegar will help seal the dye within the fabric of dark denim jeans, reducing the chance that your jeans will continue to bleed when you wear or wash them in the future.
If you prefer to hand launder your jeans instead of throwing them in the wash, try soaking new dark denim jeans in a vinegar bath . To do this, fill your bathtub or a bucket with cold water, then add one cup of white vinegar. Leave the jeans to soak for about an hour, then wring out the excess liquid and hang jeans by the waistband to dry. If you’re concerned about your jeans retaining their shape and color , hand washing is your best bet.
If you’re still struggling with your jeans bleeding, try a longer overnight vinegar bath, followed by a trip through a cold water cycle in the laundry. To do this, fill up your bathtub or a bucket with cold water and add one cup of white vinegar. Lay your jeans in the tub to soak while you sleep, then, in the morning, run your jeans through a plain cold water rinse and hang them to dry when done.
Dont Wear Your Black Jeans In Situations Where You Know Youll Have To Wash Them

If you are going on a strenuous 15-mile hike or going to a place where you know your jeans will get dirty, leave the black-dyed jeans at home. Avoid a situation where you know youâll have to wash the jeans after. Instead, wear a rugged, older pair of jeans designed for outdoor activities. You can keep your black-dyed jeans or jeggings protected by keeping the washing to a minimum and using the tips weâve described above.
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How To Reverse Colour Fading In Black Jeans
This article was co-authored by Kamel Almani. Kamel Almani is a Laundry and Cleaning Specialist and the Co-Owner of WashyWash, a toxin-free and eco-friendly laundry and dry clean service based in Amman, Jordan. Kamel and his staff at WashyWash use Blue Angel certified and dermatologically-tested detergents. They also combine EcoClean and digital technology to provide an eco-friendly, convenient, and quality cleaning service. Kamel holds a BA in Design from the University of Applied Science, Amman.There are 13 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 254,146 times.
Black jeans are a great addition to any wardrobe, but keeping them looking new can be an uphill battle after too many washes and wearings. The indigo dye used to color the denim can bleed onto other fabrics or even onto your skin, fading over time. While you cant reverse color fading in your jeans, you can prevent it from happening in the first place and re-dye the fabric if necessary. With the right techniques, you can easily revive any denim you own that has faded, maintain their deep color, and keep your style looking fresh and on trend.
What To Do With Clothes That Have Become Soiled
There are many ways that clothes can become soiled. Dirt and stains can build up on the clothes and stain them. For that reason, its important to be careful about what you put on your clothes. But there are a few things that you can do to keep your clothes from becoming soiled. The first thing is to wash your clothes as soon as you notice any dirt or stains. Washing clothes before they become soiled is one of the best ways to keep them clean. Also, make sure to remove the tags from your clothes. Tags can make them look dirty, even if they arent. Finally, avoid using any cleaners or special detergents on your clothes. Many cleaning chemicals can make clothes brittle. The best thing to do with dirty clothes is to hang them up or place them in the washing machine. In the washing machine, you can use a regular laundry detergent and a good amount of water. Remove your clothes from the washing machine as soon as its done. Dry clothes are one of the best ways to get your clothes clean. If you are washing them in a washing machine, make sure to wash them using cold water and a normal cycle. Most washing machines dont come with a drying cycle, so its up to you to dry your clothes.
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Dont Strangle Your Jeans Also Bleach Is Not Your Friend
Denims are known to be rough, tough, sturdy, and look good when worn for long periods. But when wet, the fabric and thread can be delicate. So do not twist the jeans in order to wrangle the water out of them. Let them air dry!Also, we think it goes without saying, do not bleach your BLACK jeans.For distressed and ripped jeans this is especially important so as to retain the look as you first purchased it from the store.
How Can I Restore My Faded Black Jeans Without Dye
If youre keen to try other methods before whipping out the dye – which can be a bit messy – WikiHow suggests using black coffee to achieve a similar effect, repeating the process until youve reached the desired shade. Their top tip? Opting for a darker blend for the best possible result.
So there you have it, a load of handy tips and tricks for prolonging the life of your black jeans and restoring their faded colour.
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Wash Your Jeans Less Spot
Jeans dont need to be washed after every wear or if they get stained! You can easily spot clean your dark denim to remove small stains and reduce overall fading. Use a small amount of detergent to remove everyday stains. For tougher grease stains, use household cleaners like Pine-Sol.
If you notice any odors due to washing your jeans less frequently, consider combining water and vodka in a spray bottle, spraying the jeans, then putting them in the freezer overnight.
The freezer method has been widely debated because most household freezers are not cold enough to kill bacteria, but the good news is that it will help take down any odor!
How Do You Fix Faded Black Jeans
The best way to restore the colour to your black jeans is with black dye. To do this, start by washing your jeans in cold water to ensure the fabric is clean. Then, using a big plastic bucket, bowl or a utility sink, follow the steps on your dye of choice to create the dye bath.
Next, let your jeans soak for the recommended amount of time, stirring occasionally to ensure no sediment forms at the bottom. Once soaked, rinse your jeans under cold water and lock in the colour before washing in a cold wash and leaving to air dry.
Et voila! Your jeans should look as good as new again.
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Try Washing With A Cup Of Vinegar
I know, sounds a bit weird, but many people have had a good experience washing their black jeans with vinegar. About.com explains, “The vinegar will help seal the dye within the fabric so that they wonât continue to bleed.” Make sure to definitely use cold water though if you do try to experiment with the kitchen staple.
Try: Distilled White Vinegar, $4,
Choose The Right Dye Colour

©shutterstock
Before dyeing jeans, you should know to choose the right dye colour. You will find dye colors in both liquid and powder form. You should also read the instructions on the box carefully before using the dye. This is important because the liquid dye is more concentrated. Since it is already dissolved in water, it has to be used less. On the other hand, if you are choosing a powder dye, you will need to dissolve it in hot water first. Apart from this, it is also very important to take care of the amount of water and dye.
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How To Keep Black Jeans From Fading
This article was co-authored by Kamel Almani. Kamel Almani is a Laundry and Cleaning Specialist and the Co-Owner of WashyWash, a toxin-free and eco-friendly laundry and dry clean service based in Amman, Jordan. Kamel and his staff at WashyWash use Blue Angel certified and dermatologically-tested detergents. They also combine EcoClean and digital technology to provide an eco-friendly, convenient, and quality cleaning service. Kamel holds a BA in Design from the University of Applied Science, Amman. This article has been viewed 163,790 times.
Black jeans are beautiful, and can be worn for many occasions. Dress them up with a button down shirt or keep them casual with a t-shirt. Keeping black jeans black can be a bit tricky. Inevitably your black jeans will fade, but you can postpone this with different washing and caring techniques.