2. Tension during manufacturing
Another reason for ripples after washing is related to how denim is manufactured. During weaving and stitching, different parts of the jeans are sewn under tension. If the tension isn’t evenly distributed, the fabric may appear smooth at first, but once washed, those areas begin to shift and warp, creating ripples or twists.
Cheaper jeans or those made with less precise construction are more prone to this issue. However, even expensive jeans can ripple if they are made from stretch denim or have uneven stitching.
3. Issues related to stretch denim and elastane
For added comfort and flexibility, many modern jeans contain elastane (also known as spandex). Stretch denim is very flexible, but after several washes, it can begin to ripple. The outer layer may warp or stretch unevenly because synthetic fibers shrink or degrade differently than cotton.
Elasticity is essential in skinny jeans and jeggings, where this effect is especially noticeable. After repeated washing and drying, the fiber behavior changes become more visible over time.
4. Overloading the washing machine
If you overload the washing machine, jeans don’t have enough room to move freely. This can cause twisting, creasing, and uneven agitation, leading to wrinkles and ripples. Likewise, if jeans get wrapped around other garments (like towels or hoodies), the twisting can permanently alter the fabric’s shape.
5. Drying mistakes
All the above issues can get worse if you dry jeans at a high temperature in the dryer. Any shrinking or warping becomes “locked in” by the heat. In addition, the fibers become brittle and more likely to wrinkle or crease when overdried.
Even though it takes longer, air drying your jeans is much gentler and helps them maintain their original shape.
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