Vintage denim is highly valued for its aesthetics and elegance. However, these beloved pieces need special care and attention so they may not get destroyed and retain their beauty for as long as possible.
To help you preserve your vintage clothing piece in it’s best form, below are the do’s and don’ts of washing vintage and some advices from the professional experts. Happy Reading!
What Is Unique About Vintage Denim?
Authenticity of vintage denim is defined by its dense weave and the natural wear and tear of the of the fabric. It is usually made up of cotton and is blended with small percentage of synthetic fibers. These materials when combined, give vintage denim its unique appearance and texture. However, it is important to note that these fabrics are softer than modern denim and need a little extra care.
One of the biggest challenges while washing vintage denim is that the garment should not be subjected to undue stress. This involves the use of right tools and methods that do not in any way affect the quality of the piece.
Importance of Water Temperature & Detergent Choice
A study has shown that water temperature and choice of detergent are key factors that affects the outcomes of washing vintage denim. Here are some few key considerations:
- Water temperature: It is recommended to wash the garment with lukewarm or cold water as hot water weakens the fabric and also fades its color.
- Detergent choice: Choose a mild, color-free soap that is formulated for use on fine fabrics and garments. Do not use strong soap or bleach as they may damage the fabric. Try using ecofriendly solvents as used in green dry cleaning.
- Vinegar rinse: Rinse the fabric with water and one teaspoon of white vinegar to balance the pH level of the fabric and it also helps the fabric to retain its original color for longer periods.
Drying Techniques - Air Drying vs. Machine Drying
As for the drying process of vintage denim, the air drying is the most suitable option. Air drying is preferred since it ensures that the fabric does not shrink or lose its shape. Do not iron the denim or use a tumble dryer or hang the denim directly under the sun since this will cause the color to fade and the material to lose its elasticity.
If you prefer to dry your vintage denim using a machine, then do it on the lowest heat setting and take it out as soon as it is dry to avoid further shrinkage..
Spot Cleaning vs. Full Wash
Spot cleaning is an effective method to remove small stains without subjecting the entire garment to a full wash. When spot cleaning vintage denim, follow these steps:
- Take a piece of soft cloth and wet it with water.
- Place a few drops of a mild detergent on the cloth and then scrub the stained part lightly.
- This is followed by rinsing of the cloth and wiping off any traces of the detergent.
- Wipe the area with a clean towel to eliminate the extra moisture which may be present.
The advantage of spot cleaning is that you can clean a particular area of the garment where there is a stain or dirt without washing the entire garment which may reduce the life span of your vintage denim.
The Do's: Best Practices for Preserving Color and Texture
There are some guidelines that have to be followed in order to retain the color and texture of old denim. Here are some do's to keep in mind:
- Wash inside out: Flipping your vintage denim inside out helps reduce the wear and tear on the outer surface and fading.
- Wash sparingly: Washing the vintage denim often is not advisable as it accelerates the aging process and shortens the life span of the vintage denim. Try to wash only when it is really needed.
- Use a gentle cycle: If you have to use a washing machine, select the delicate cycle or wash the garment by hand to avoid rubbing.
- Remove promptly: After washing, always take the denim out of the washing machine or basin as soon as possible to avoid creasing.
The Don'ts: Common Mistakes to Avoid
To avoid damaging your vintage denim, it's essential to steer clear of these common mistakes:
- Avoid bleach: This is because bleach has the ability to stain the fabric and once this has happened, the fabric cannot be restored to its original state. It is important that you never wash your vintage denim with bleach.
- Stay away from excessive heat: Heat causes the fabrics to fade, shrink and even lose their original shape and size. Wash with cold or lukewarm water and always dry the clothes naturally or with air-dry setting.
- Don't scrub vigorously: It is also important not to scrub too hard since this may lead to the weakening of the fabric and fraying. When spot cleaning or washing out stains, be as delicate as possible.
Expert Tips from Denim Care Professionals
Lastly, we've gathered some expert tips from denim care professionals to help you maintain and care for your vintage denim:
- Store denim properly: To avoid over-stretching and color fading, lay your vintage denim flat or use wooden hangers to hang them. Poor storage techniques may cause dry rot in vintage clothing.
- Spot test before washing: Always pre-treat any cleaning solution or technique to the vintage denim in a hidden area to check if it will have any negative impacts on the fabric.
- Embrace natural fades: Vintage denim ages beautifully with wear and tear. Accept the natural fade lines and other natural characteristics that make each piece to be unique in its own way.
By following these expert advices and a right strategy, you can be sure that your vintage denim will look beautiful and will last for a long time. Learning about the fabric, the appropriate tools, and the do’s and don’ts will help you maintain the beauty and originality of the special items.
