how to soften denim fabric

Easy Tips For Softening Up Your Favorite Denim Jeans

If you're anything like me, denim jeans are your staple wardrobe item. Whether worn casually with a t-shirt and sneakers, dressed up for an outing with friends in a statement top and heels, or simply lounging around the house on the weekends - it's hard to beat the versatility of a good pair of jeans! But after many wears and washes, even our most beloved denim can become stiff and uncomfortable. Fortunately, there are easy ways to go about softening them back up again so that you get all the comfort along with all the style! In this post, we’ll share my best tips for bringing your favorite pair of denim back from where they started: soft as butter. Keep reading to learn how to make those old jeans feel new again!

Choose High-quality Jeans

When most people think of quality jeans, stiff and uncomfortable denim typically comes to mind, but this doesn't have to be the case. Some companies prioritize quality, using the best yarns and construction techniques when manufacturing jeans. These 100% denim jeans won't leave you stiff and uncomfortable; instead, they will be soft like a favorite pair of old jeans!

And since high-quality materials are used in their construction, they can last longer while still maintaining their comfort. Remember, not all jeans with 100% denim content are created equal; opting for trusted vendors ensures that you receive the highest quality possible. Soften stiff jeans by investing in new ones from a reputable source. You won’t regret it!

Launder But Not Overly Often

Washing jeans is a great way to make them softer and more comfortable. However, be sure not to overdo it -- washing jeans too often can negatively impact their quality. How often should you wash jeans? It depends on the material composition and the jeans’ quality; however, in general, washing a pair of new jeans 2-3 times should be enough to make them noticeably softer.


Be sure to use either warm or cold water, as hot water might cause shrinkage, and don’t forget to add liquid fabric softener. After that, turn the jeans inside out before placing them in the washing machine, as this will help prevent any fabric damage. And finally, always hang dry jeans afterward to ensure optimal softness and comfort!

Avoid Heavy Denim

how to soften denim fabric

Jeans made of thicker denim are great for colder temperatures, as they provide extra insulation to keep you warm. However, it's important to remember that these "thick" jeans can be stiffer when compared to an equivalent pair featuring standard denim. If you're looking for a softer, more comfortable fit, you may want to opt for a regular pair of blue jeans instead.

Furthermore, if the jeans do happen to feel a bit rigid initially, an easy way to soften them is by wearing them wet and allowing them to sit overnight. This will break in the material and make the jeans sit comfortably against your body. For even better results, pair your new jeans with a denim jacket for a classic look that's perfect for any season!

Avoid Raw Denim Jeans

When it comes to choosing jeans, you should avoid raw denim. While there are some advantages to wearing jeans made of raw denim, it's important to note that they can be quite stiff and rigid. This is because the manufacturing process for raw denim does not involve a pre-wash process like other jeans, meaning it hasn't been softened by water.

Usually, soften and wet the jeans before wearing them. However, this isn't an option when it comes to raw denim – if you don't want stiff jeans, then you should look elsewhere. To soften regular-washed denim jeans, you can try breaking them gently in warm water or putting them in the clothes dryer on a low heat setting several times to soften the jeans.

Consider Stretch Jeans

If you're looking for the ultimate in comfort, then stretch jeans may be a perfect choice. They are made from a combination of denim and an elastic fabric such as spandex or polyester, providing enhanced flexibility and mobility that won't break after one wetting like regular jeans often does.

On top of their superior fit, they also feel softer than traditional jeans, offering the wearer a more relaxed look and feel. To get the most out of your stretch jeans, it's best to limit how frequently you wash them. You can further preserve them by washing them inside-out and avoiding wetting them too often, or else you run the risk of permanently stretching out their elasticity and softening the fabric. So don't wait any longer - pick up a pair of stretch jeans today for maximal comfort with minimal effort!

Add Fabric Softener

how to soften denim fabric

Fabric softener is an essential part of taking proper care of your jeans. When jeans are stored wet or break-in, the fibers become harder, causing them to be rough and uncomfortable. Fortunately, fabric softeners can help break down those fibers, making jeans softer and more comfortable once again. To take advantage of the softening benefits of fabric softener, simply add a small amount as instructed after adding your regular laundry detergent to the washing machine.

If you prefer an extra boost for break-ins or stiff jeans, turn them inside out before washing; this will allow the fabric softener to break down the fibers from both sides for even further softness. Treating your jeans with fabric softener is such an easy task that requires minimal effort and money - just remember: there's a reason it's called fabric softener!

Wash With Salt

One of the most irritating feelings is when your favorite pair of jeans no longer feel soft or comfortable. If your fabric softener is running low, or you don’t have access to it for any reason, fear not! Salt is an effective alternative that can work as a natural fabric softener. You can pour about 1 cup of salt into the wash and set the machine on hot water to get the desired results. Not only will this make your jeans feel softer, but it can also help keep colors from fading and restore that luxurious feel they once had. So if you ever run out of fabric softener, remember to give this simple trick a try!

Rub With A Pumice Stone

Have you ever tried to soften your jeans? If not, then why not give it a go with a pumice stone? Place the denim on an even surface and lightly rub the stone across them. This method has been effective for some folks!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for an easy way to soften up your denim jeans, then any one of these tips should do the trick. Just remember that the key is in the repetition – the more often you wash and wear them, the softer they’ll become. Do you have any other tips for softening denim?