Why Your Jeans Get Those Weird Ripples After Washing

Jeans often come out of the wash with ripples, puckering, or wrinkles, and it’s not just a random mishap. The main reason lies in the fabric. Most modern jeans are made with a blend of cotton and Lycra (elastane) to provide stretch and comfort. However, Lycra is very sensitive to heat, and when exposed to hot water or a high dryer temperature, it can break down—causing the denim around it to warp permanently.

Washing too often also damages jeans. Frequent washing weakens the fibers and leads to uneven shrinkage, making the fabric lose its original shape faster than it should.

Inside the washing machine, jeans are constantly twisting and stretching, especially when the load is too full. This uneven movement causes some sections to tighten or wrinkle while others stay smooth, creating that rippled look.

Denim also absorbs water unevenly, and stretch fabrics swell differently in various areas. As the jeans dry, these sections shrink at different rates, leading to distortion in the fabric’s surface and fit.

Overcrowding in the washer or dryer worsens the issue. Jeans that dry while twisted or folded end up with set-in creases that are difficult to remove later.

To prevent this, always wash jeans in cold water and avoid high heat. Air drying is best, but if using a dryer, choose a low-heat setting and remove them while still slightly damp.

Turn jeans inside out before washing, use a gentle cycle, and never overload the machine. With proper care, your jeans will stay smooth, well-shaped, and last much longer.