Jeans are a staple of many wardrobes but they can be tricky to care for.
One of the most common questions people have when it comes to jeans is whether or not they can be put in the dryer.
The answer to this question largely depends on the type of jeans and what kind of fabric they’re made from.
Generally speaking denim jeans should not be put in the dryer as it can cause them to shrink and fade.
If you’re in doubt about whether your jeans can go in the dryer it’s best to err on the side of caution and hang them to dry instead.
Different Types of Jeans
Not all jeans are created equal and different types of jeans may require different methods of care.
For instance stretch jeans are usually made with a blend of cotton spandex and other synthetic materials.
These fabrics are designed to be flexible and to retain their shape after washing.
As such they are usually safe to put in the dryer.
On the other hand raw denim jeans should never be put in the dryer as it will damage the fabric and cause them to shrink.
Additionally the heat from the dryer can also cause the dyes in the fabric to fade or change colour.
Other Tips for Caring for Jeans
Even if you’re sure that your jeans can go in the dryer it’s a good idea to take other steps to ensure that they’re well cared for.
For instance always be sure to follow the washing instructions on the label and never wash your jeans with other items as this can cause them to become stretched or misshapen.
Additionally try to wash your jeans inside out to preserve the colour.
Finally if you’re in doubt about whether or not you should put your jeans in the dryer it’s best to air dry them instead.
This will help to ensure that they retain their shape and that the fabric remains in good condition.
The Pros and Cons of Putting Jeans in the Dryer
While it may be tempting to throw your jeans in the dryer doing so can have both positive and negative effects.
Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of drying jeans in the dryer.
The Pros
The primary benefit of throwing jeans in the dryer is that it will get them dry much faster than air drying.
This can be especially helpful in the winter when it’s too chilly to hang them outside.
Additionally putting them in the dryer can help give them a bit of a “worn” look which many people like.
The Cons
The primary downside of throwing jeans in the dryer is that they can shrink.
This is especially true for jeans made of cotton or denim.
The heat of the dryer can cause the fabric to shrink leading to jeans that are too short or too tight.
Additionally the dryer can cause fading and can also damage the stitching leading to a much shorter lifespan.
Alternatives to Putting Jeans in the Dryer
If you’re worried about shrinking or damaging your jeans there are several alternatives to throwing them in the dryer.
Air Drying
The most obvious alternative is air drying.
This can be done by simply hanging them up in a warm dry place.
This is a much gentler way of drying jeans and it eliminates the risk of shrinkage.
Line Drying
Line drying is another option and it has the added benefit of providing a bit of a “worn” look to your jeans.
Line drying can also help preserve the color of your jeans as the sun’s ultraviolet rays can help block out the fading that can come from the dryer.
Conclusion
Ultimately the decision of whether or not to put jeans in the dryer is a personal one.
If you don’t mind the risk of shrinkage or damage then throwing them in the dryer can be a great way to get them dry quickly.
However if you want to keep your jeans in the best possible condition then it may be worth considering the alternatives.