Denim jackets with patches are a timeless fashion statement that can truly elevate your personal style. Whether you're a fan of vintage designs, band logos, or custom creations, these patches add character and individuality to your denim jacket. However, when it comes to cleaning and maintaining these cherished garments, many people find themselves uncertain about the best practices to preserve both the patches and the jacket's overall quality.
In this blog post, we will delve into the world of washing denim jackets with patches and provide you with essential tips and techniques to ensure that your beloved jacket remains stylish, vibrant, and long-lasting. We'll guide you through the necessary steps, from pre-washing preparations to post-washing care, to help you maintain the integrity of your patches while giving your jacket a thorough clean.
Method #1: Hand Washing
Hand washing denim jackets with patches is a gentle and effective method to keep them clean without risking damage. Start by turning the jacket inside out and filling a sink or bucket with cold water. Add a small amount of mild detergent and submerge the jacket, taking care not to rub the patches. Let it soak for 10-15 minutes before rinsing with cold water until it runs clear. Gently squeeze out excess water and lay the jacket flat to air dry. This method ensures the patches stay intact while effectively cleaning the denim fabric, preserving the overall look and quality of your favorite custom jacket.
Fill a sink or bucket with cold water.
When it comes to certain tasks like washing delicate fabrics or hand-washing items, filling a sink or bucket with cold water is often recommended and there is a reason for it. Cold water helps prevent shrinking or damaging the material, particularly for items that are not colorfast. It is essential to choose the appropriate water temperature based on the item's care instructions or fabric type to avoid unwanted effects during the washing process.
Add a small amount of mild detergent.
To effectively clean your clothes or items in a sink or bucket, it is advisable to add a small amount of mild detergent. Mild detergents are formulated to be gentle on fabrics and reduce the risk of damage. However, using too much detergent can leave residue or cause excess suds, so it's best to follow the recommended dosage or use a small quantity appropriate for the load size. The general rule of thumb is your gut feeling here. If you feel like you're overdoing it you're probably overdoing it!
Submerge the denim jacket but be wary of patches!
When hand-washing a jacket, it is important to submerge it in the water gently, ensuring that all parts of the jacket get wet. However, at the same time, it's also crucial to be cautious around any patches or delicate embellishments to avoid rubbing or causing them to detach. Treating these areas with care helps preserve the jacket's overall appearance and integrity during the washing process.
Let the jacket soak for 10-15 minutes.
After submerging the jacket in the water, allowing it to soak for 10-15 minutes helps the detergent penetrate the fabric and loosen any dirt or grime. This soaking period gives the detergent time to work effectively, enhancing the overall cleaning process.
But keep in mind, it's important to avoid leaving the jacket soaking for too long, as extended exposure to water may lead to color bleeding or other potential issues.
Rinse the jacket with cold water until the water runs clear.
Once the soaking time is complete, rinsing the denim jacket with cold water is necessary to remove the detergent and any loosened dirt. Rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear, indicating that the jacket is free from soap residue. Proper rinsing helps prevent any potential skin irritation or damage caused by detergent remnants, leaving the jacket fresh and clean.
Squeeze out the excess water.
After rinsing, gently squeeze out the excess water from the jacket. Avoid wringing or twisting the fabric vigorously, as this can distort its shape or cause stretching. Instead, apply gentle pressure with your hands or use a clean towel to absorb the water gradually. Removing excess water facilitates the drying process and prevents unnecessary strain on the fabric.
Lay the jacket flat to air dry.
Finally, lay the jacket flat on a clean, dry surface to air dry. Placing it on a towel or a drying rack helps maintain its shape while allowing air to circulate around the garment, aiding in the evaporation of moisture. Avoid exposing the jacket to direct sunlight or heat sources, as these can cause fading or damage. Patience is key during the drying process to ensure the jacket dries thoroughly before wearing or storing it again.
Method #2: Machine Washing
Machine washing is a convenient and efficient way to clean various garments, including your custom denim jackets. It involves using a washing machine to automate the cleaning process.
Machine washing is suitable for jackets that are labeled as machine washable, as it ensures thorough cleaning and removal of dirt and odors. However, it is important to follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer to avoid damaging the jacket during the washing process.
Turn the jacket inside out.
Before placing the denim jacket in the washing machine, it is recommended to turn it inside out. This helps protect the outer surface of the jacket, particularly if it has delicate or decorative elements. Turning the jacket inside out also helps minimize friction and potential abrasion during the washing cycle, preserving the jacket's appearance and preventing excessive wear.
Zip up any zippers and button any buttons.
To prevent zippers or buttons from snagging on other garments or the washing machine drum, it is important to zip up any zippers and button all buttons before washing the jacket. This step ensures that these fasteners stay in place and reduces the risk of damage or entanglement during the wash cycle.
Place the jacket in a mesh laundry bag.
When machine washing a denim jacket or even custom denim jackets with patches, placing it in a mesh laundry bag provides an extra layer of protection. The mesh bag helps prevent the jacket from getting tangled with other clothing items, reducing the risk of stretching or damage. Additionally, it helps maintain the shape of the jacket during the washing process and minimizes the chance of buttons or zippers causing abrasion to the fabric.
Wash the jacket on a cold, delicate cycle.
Selecting the appropriate washing cycle is crucial to maintain the quality of the jacket. For most jackets, it is recommended to use a cold water setting and a delicate or gentle cycle. Cold water helps preserve the color and fabric integrity, while the delicate cycle minimizes agitation, reducing the risk of damage to the jacket. It is essential to refer to the care label on the jacket for specific washing instructions.
Air dry the jacket.
After machine washing, it is best to air dry your denim jacket to ensure proper drying and prevent shrinkage or damage from heat. Hang the jacket on a clothesline or lay it flat on a clean surface, allowing air to circulate freely. Avoid using a dryer, as high heat can cause the fabric to shrink or lose its shape. Patience is key during the drying process, as jackets may take some time to dry thoroughly. Once dry, your custom denim jacket will be ready to wear or store.
Our Thoughts...
While there is no doubt that it is much easier to wash your denim jackets with Washing Machine we truly believe that if you want to preserve the art that is your customizable jackets hand washing should always be number one priority. Although, by no means should you not wash your jackets with aid of washing machine, especially if you have our collection.
At CatchyCustom we go extra mile to make sure you have the best of the best, then it doesn't matter whether its jacket from our denim collection or especially made NFT apparel.