Few things are more disappointing than pulling your favorite jeans out of the wash only to find them covered in strange ripples. Why does this happen, and how can you prevent it? The answer lies in both the fabric and your laundry habits.
Today’s jeans usually contain stretch fibers like Lycra, which make them comfortable but also more vulnerable to heat and agitation. When washed in hot water or dried on high heat, these fibers shrink unevenly, creating permanent wrinkles. The more you wash them, the worse it gets—experts actually recommend washing jeans only when necessary to preserve their shape.
The washing machine itself contributes to the problem. As jeans twist and spin, the thick denim absorbs water unevenly, causing some areas to stretch while others stay tight. Overloading the machine makes this worse, as cramped jeans can’t move freely and end up drying in crumpled positions.
To keep your jeans looking their best, always wash them in cold water and air-dry when possible. Turn them inside out to protect the outer fabric, and avoid overloading the machine. If wrinkles have already set in, try steaming or ironing on low heat with a damp cloth. With these simple adjustments, you can extend the life of your denim and avoid the dreaded post-wash ripple effect.
