How to Break in Raw Denim?

Raw denim is a fashion lover’s dream, offering unmatched quality, durability, and the potential for a personalized fit.

However, unlike pre-washed denim, raw denim comes stiff and rigid, which can make the break-in process seem daunting.

Breaking in raw denim properly is an art, but with patience and the right approach, your jeans will become a second skin that molds to your body.

What is Raw Denim?

Raw denim, also known as dry denim, refers to jeans made from denim fabric that hasn’t been pre-washed, softened, or treated in any way.

While raw denim might not be as comfortable as pre-washed jeans in the beginning, the payoff is worth it.

Over time, raw denim becomes softer and more comfortable, taking on the natural curves and movements of the wearer’s body.

Why Should You Break in Raw Denim?

The process of breaking in raw denim is an important part of creating a unique pair of jeans.

As raw denim is worn, it begins to form natural creases where the fabric bends or stretches.

These areas will become softer and more comfortable over time, and you’ll start to notice the fabric molding to your body.

This natural wear and tear process is part of what makes raw denim so appealing to denim enthusiasts.

Breaking in raw denim also enhances the texture and feel of the fabric, making it softer and more comfortable over time.

How to Break in Raw Denim

Breaking in raw denim requires patience, care, and time. It’s a gradual process that cannot be rushed, but it’s also incredibly rewarding.

1. Wear Them Regularly

The most important part of breaking in raw denim is to simply wear them. Raw denim needs to be exposed to your body’s natural movements to soften and mold to your shape.

The more frequently you wear your raw denim jeans, the faster they’ll break in.

Start by wearing them for a few hours at a time, gradually increasing the time as you get more comfortable.

You should also consider wearing your raw denim jeans as much as possible during the day.

The longer you wear them, the more they’ll break in. Don’t worry if they feel stiff or uncomfortable at first—it’s all part of the process.

2. Avoid Washing Them Too Soon

One of the biggest mistakes raw denim owners make is washing their jeans too soon. Raw denim jeans need time to develop their fades naturally.

Washing your jeans before they’ve had time to break in will disrupt the fading process, leaving you with a pair of jeans that doesn’t have that unique worn-in look.

To give your jeans the best chance of breaking in well, it’s recommended to wait as long as possible before the first wash.

Some people even wait six months or longer, although this depends on how often the jeans are worn.

If your jeans start to smell or get overly dirty, spot cleaning is a good option to maintain their integrity until you’re ready for a full wash.

3. Use the "No Wash" Method

While waiting to wash your raw denim for as long as possible, you can implement a "no wash" method that helps keep the fabric from getting too dirty.

This involves simply brushing off dirt and grime with a soft brush or using a fabric deodorizer to keep things fresh.

If your jeans start to get particularly grimy, you can spot clean specific areas (like the pockets or cuffs) with a damp cloth.

The goal here is to avoid washing the jeans entirely for as long as you can, allowing the raw denim to break in naturally.

4. Break in With Regular Movement

Raw denim jeans need to break in with your movements. The natural creases that form as you bend, squat, and stretch will be what create those unique fades.

When you first get your raw denim jeans, make sure to wear them in various situations where they’ll move with you.

Things like sitting down, squatting, or climbing stairs can accelerate the break-in process. However, don’t expect them to soften instantly.

Your jeans need to be worn regularly to achieve that worn-in look and feel. Patience is key here.

Conclusion

Breaking in raw denim jeans is a rewarding process that requires patience and attention to detail.

By following these steps, you’ll not only break in your raw denim jeans but also create a pair of jeans that’s uniquely yours.

Enjoy the process, and in time, you'll be proud of the unique fades, creases, and character your raw denim will develop.