Water temperature
What temperature should you wash jeans at?
Cold water is best for most jeans because it helps protect color and reduces shrinkage risk.
Reviewed June 10, 2026
Temperature
Cold water
Cycle
Normal or delicate
Spin
Medium spin
Care-label caveats
- High heat can shrink denim and weaken stretch fibers.
- Wash dark denim separately the first few times.
- Use delicate for jeans with stretch, distressing, embroidery, or hardware that could snag.
- Follow any raw denim or specialty finish instructions from the label.
FAQ
What temperature should you wash jeans at?
Cold water is best for most jeans because it helps protect color and reduces shrinkage risk.
What washer setting should I use for jeans?
Use normal for sturdy jeans or delicate for dark, stretch, or distressed denim. Turn jeans inside out before washing.