Even without excessive heat, the washing machine itself can cause problems. Jeans don’t simply soak in water—they’re tossed, twisted, and pulled in multiple directions.
Overloading the washer makes this worse. When clothes are packed too tightly, denim gets stretched unevenly as it tangles with other garments.
Stretch denim is especially vulnerable when wet and heavy. Different areas dry under different levels of tension, which leads to that familiar wavy, rippled appearance once dry.
How to Prevent Ripples in Jeans
Wash jeans inside out on a cold, gentle cycle
Avoid overloading the washing machine
Skip the dryer or use low heat only
Wash jeans less frequently
Lay flat or hang to air-dry when possible
Taking these steps can significantly extend the life of your jeans and keep them looking smooth and well-fitted.
