Many of the above problems get worse in a hot dryer. High heat can lock in shrinkage and fabric distortion, making the ripples more permanent. Over-drying can also weaken the cotton fibers, making the jeans more likely to hold puckers and wrinkles.
Instead, let your jeans dry naturally when possible — air drying is gentler and helps preserve their shape.
• Wash with cold water to limit shrinkage
• Turn jeans inside out to reduce surface wear and friction
• Use a gentle cycle and avoid overcrowding the washer
• Air dry or tumble on low heat, removing them while still slightly damp
• Lay flat or hang by the waistband for even drying
• If ripples appear, iron inside out on a low setting to help smooth them
Those ripples and waves you see post-wash aren’t necessarily signs of poor quality. In most cases, they’re simply the result of how denim reacts to heat, water, and tension. But with some careful care — especially around washing and drying — you can keep your jeans looking smooth, crisp, and stylish for years to come.
