To clean waxed denim, you can either hand wash it or machine wash it in cold water using a mild detergent on a gentle cycle.
Keeping waxed denim clean requires careful handling to preserve the unique wax coating that gives the fabric its distinctive look and feel. While infrequent cleaning is often recommended for denim in general, sometimes a wash is necessary.
Methods for Cleaning Waxed Denim
There are two primary methods supported by the reference for cleaning your waxed denim garments:
Hand Washing
Hand washing is generally the gentler option for waxed denim. This method helps to minimize the loss of the wax coating.
- Process: Submerge the garment in cold water with a small amount of mild detergent. Gently swish the item or lightly agitate the water to clean. Avoid harsh rubbing or scrubbing which can damage the wax.
- Rinsing: Rinse thoroughly with cold water until all soap is removed.
- Drying: Press out excess water gently (do not wring or twist) and lay flat or hang to air dry away from direct heat or sunlight.
Machine Washing
According to the reference, you can also machine wash waxed denim under specific conditions.
- Settings: Use cold water and a mild detergent. Set your washing machine to a gentle cycle.
- Caveat: Be aware that this may cause more of the wax coating to come off.
- Post-Wash: Due to the potential loss of wax, it needs to be re-waxing as soon as possible after machine washing to restore the protective layer and appearance.
Important Considerations
When cleaning waxed denim, keep the following points in mind:
- Always use cold water to prevent the wax from melting or becoming excessively pliable and washing away.
- Choose a mild, pH-neutral detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics or denim if possible. Avoid harsh chemicals, bleach, or fabric softeners.
- Minimize washing frequency. Spot cleaning minor dirt is often preferred over a full wash.
- After cleaning, especially machine washing, inspect the garment. If the wax coating appears significantly diminished, consider re-waxing to maintain the fabric's integrity and water resistance.
Here's a quick comparison of the two methods:
| Feature | Hand Washing | Machine Washing |
|---|---|---|
| Water Temp | Cold Water | Cold Water |
| Detergent | Mild Detergent | Mild Detergent |
| Cycle/Method | Gentle Swishing/Agitation | Gentle Cycle |
| Wax Retention | Better Retention | More Likely to Cause Wax Loss |
| Post-Care | May require minor re-waxing | Requires re-waxing as soon as possible |
Choosing the right cleaning method helps maintain the unique character and longevity of your waxed denim items.
