How To Make Your Jeans Last Longer
BOSTON (CBS) - There's nothing better than a good pair of comfortable jeans. Making them last longer can require some unconventional cleaning methods.
Carl Chiara, an expert on jeans, says most of us do too much when it comes to taking care of our denim.
"Really, think about every time you put those jeans in the wash, do you really need to wash it?"
You might not even need detergent. He says to look under your kitchen sink instead.
Chiara says to remove spots or stains, try dabbing your jeans with a damp sponge and some Windex or 409.
"There's a really low concentration of bleach in those things, and I find that its perfect and it also brightens the indigo a bit," he explained.
He suggests hanging jeans in the bathroom while you take a shower. He says the steam can freshen them right up.
For a more thorough cleaning, put your jeans in the tub with two tablespoons of a mild organic soap. Use about six inches of water at room temperature. You can also add a tiny bit of white vinegar which helps set the indigo and keeps it from fading. After letting the jeans soak for 20 minutes, hang them dry.
Chiara says to never put them in the dryer.
If you must use a washing machine, he says to turn the pants inside out and use cold water.
Related: Boston's Best Jeans
Here's something most teenage boys would like to hear: Chiara recommends washing jeans once every six months.
He also says to avoid ironing and dry cleaning as they can stress the fabric.
