Cleaning Via Freezing – Controversial But Effective

Last week we did up an instructional post on washing your raw denim.  However, some of the feedback we received soon after was that that most people have a tough time making it to that six month mark.  Either the smell settles in, some stains show up here and there, and just the idea of going so long without washing their denim makes them cringe.  Thankfully, there is an alternative solution – freezing raw denim.

Essentially, the root of the “dirtiness” evil that causes your denim to smell and feel grimy is bacteria.  As bacteria culminates and grows in humid and warm environments, clothing that is worn tight to the body, exposed to sweat, and for long periods of time (i.e. raw denim) makes for the perfect breeding grounds.  The simple logic then with “clean freezing” is that it “shocks” and kills all bacteria that may be accumulating.

Luckily enough, the folks over at Apartment Therapy have just put together a concise how-to video.  If you don’t have time to watch the full video, here is the step-by-step:

  1. Lay raw denim flat, brush off, and empty pockets
  2. Fold carefully and compactly place jeans into plastic bag
  3. Tuck in any openings and squeeze out air
  4. Place into freezer
  5. Leave for several hours (our recommendation)