Jeans are a wardrobe staple, but stiff denim can be uncomfortable at first. Learning how to soften jeans permanently is a great way to make them comfortable for daily wear.
Whether you’re dealing with raw denim, Levi jeans, or new jeans made of cotton, there are several methods to soften denim fabric without shrinking it. Here’s a user-friendly guide to help you soften stiff jeans, using tools like fabric softener, dryer balls, and even hair conditioner.
6 Ways To Permanently Soften Jeans
To permanently soften jeans, wash them with fabric softener and use dryer balls or tennis balls during the drying process to loosen the denim fibers. You can also soak jeans in water with hair conditioner or a vinegar solution to soften the fabric without shrinking.
Wearing your jeans often helps stretch the material naturally. For the best results, use a mild detergent with low heat settings. Try to avoid frequent washing to maintain the softness of the denim.
1. Wash With Fabric Softener
One of the easiest ways to soften jeans permanently is by washing them with liquid fabric softener. When washing your jeans for the first time, turn them inside out to protect the denim fabric.
Add a capful of fabric softener to the washing machine, but avoid detergent if it’s the first wash. This will soften the denim fibers without shrinking the jeans. For extra softness, you can also toss in a dryer sheet during the drying process.
2. Add Dryer Balls Or Tennis Balls
When drying your jeans, using dryer balls or even tennis balls can help. These balls create friction inside the dryer, which loosens up the denim fibers, making your jeans softer over time. Set your dryer to low heat to avoid shrinking your jeans, especially if they are made of 100% cotton or delicate fabrics like a denim jacket.
3. Use Hair Conditioner
Believe it or not, hair conditioner can work wonders on stiff jeans. Soak your jeans in a tub of water with a tablespoon of conditioner for about 30 minutes. This softens the fabric fibers, similar to how it conditions hair. After soaking, rinse thoroughly and wash the jeans using a mild detergent.
4. Wear Them To Stretch The Fabric
Sometimes, the best way to break in and soften your jeans is simply by wearing them. Frequent wear helps to stretch the fabric naturally, especially around the waistband and knees. Try doing activities like lunges or biking while wearing your jeans to speed up the softening process.
5. Try A Vinegar Soak
For raw denim and black jeans, soaking them in water with a bit of vinegar can help preserve the color while softening the fabric. Fill a tub with cold water, add 1 cup of vinegar, and let your jeans soak for about an hour. Afterward, rinse and air dry them to avoid shrinking.
6. Tumble With Towels
Another laundry hack to soften stiff jeans is to tumble them in the dryer with a couple of damp towels. The moisture and heat from the towels will soften the denim without causing shrinkage. Just make sure to keep the dryer on a low heat setting.
Conclusion
Softening stiff jeans doesn’t have to be a struggle. By using fabric softener, dryer balls, and even hair conditioner, you can permanently soften your jeans and make them more comfortable to wear. Remember to avoid high heat and use mild detergents to keep the fabric soft while preserving the shape and color of your favorite pair of denim jeans.
FAQs
1.Can I Soften Jeans Without Washing Them?
Yes, you can soften jeans by wearing them frequently, especially doing activities like biking or lunges to stretch the denim.
2.Will Fabric Softener Damage My Jeans?
No, fabric softener is safe to use on denim. In fact, it helps soften the fabric fibers without damaging the jeans.
3.How Can I Soften Raw Denim Without Shrinking It?
You can soak raw denim in cold water with a bit of vinegar to soften the fabric while preserving its shape and color.
4.Can I Use Hair Conditioner On All Types Of Denim?
Yes, hair conditioner works on most denim types, including Levi jeans and 100% cotton jeans. Just be sure to rinse well.
5.Should I Avoid Washing My Jeans To Keep Them Soft?
Frequent washing can stiffen your jeans. It’s best to wash them every 5-10 wears to maintain softness and avoid shrinkage.
6.Will Dryer Balls Help Soften Denim Permanently?
Yes, using dryer balls over time will help break down stiff fibers and keep your jeans soft after each wash.
