The jean, an iconic piece of our wardrobes, raises a recurring question: how often should it be washed? The French Agency for Ecological Transition (Ademe) recommends cleaning it after wearing it between 15 and 30 times. But why such guidelines? And what are the benefits for you and the environment?
The Environmental Impact of Jean: A Major Issue
Before discussing washing frequency, it is essential to understand the ecological footprint of jeans. Their production requires a considerable amount of resources: between 7,000 and 11,000 liters of water are needed to produce a single pair of denim pants. This water consumption is equivalent to approximately 285 showers! Additionally, cotton cultivation, the main raw material for jeans, is heavy on pesticides and chemical fertilizers, contributing to soil and groundwater pollution.
Moreover, the dyeing and denim-washing processes are often carried out using harmful chemicals. These substances can be discharged into waterways, affecting local flora and fauna. Finally, the journey of jeans, from cotton fields to our closets, can reach up to 65,000 kilometers, generating a significant carbon footprint.
Maintaining Your Jean: A Way to Reduce Its Ecological Footprint
The environmental impact of jeans does not stop at their production. Their maintenance also plays a crucial role. About 50% of a jean’s ecological footprint comes from its use and maintenance, particularly due to the consumption of water, energy, and detergents during washes. Thus, adopting responsible maintenance practices can significantly reduce this impact.
Spreading out washes: a beneficial practice
Ademe recommends washing jeans after wearing them between 15 and 30 times. This frequency may be surprising, but it is based on several solid arguments. First, denim is a sturdy fabric that does not require frequent washing unless there are visible stains or unpleasant odors. By spacing out washes, you extend the life of your jeans, preserve their color and shape, while reducing your water and energy consumption.
Additionally, every wash contributes to the wear of the fabric and can lead to the release of micro-particles into wastewater, thus contributing to ocean pollution. By limiting the number of washes, you reduce this invisible but harmful pollution.
Tips for Keeping Your Jean Eco-Consciously
To preserve your jeans and the environment, here are some recommendations:
- Air out your jeans regularly: after each use, hang them in an open space to eliminate odors and potential bacteria.
- Spot clean stains: for stains, clean only the affected area with a damp cloth and a bit of mild soap, rather than washing the entire pair.
- Wash at low temperatures: when a full wash is necessary, prefer a temperature of 30°C and use an eco-friendly detergent. This helps preserve the fabric’s fibers and limits energy consumption.
- Avoid the dryer: opt for air drying in the shade to prevent shrinking and premature wear of the denim.
- Turn your jeans inside out before washing: this protects the color and reduces friction on the visible fabric surface.
Toward a More Sustainable Fashion
Adopting these maintenance practices fits into a broader approach to responsible consumption. By spacing out washes of your jeans, you contribute to the preservation of natural resources and the reduction of pollution. Moreover, by extending the lifespan of your clothing, you participate in the fight against overconsumption and textile waste.
It is also wise to choose brands committed to eco-friendly production. Some offer jeans made from organic cotton, use less polluting dyeing techniques, or favor local production circuits to reduce carbon footprint.
By following the recommendations of Ademe and adopting simple gestures, you can significantly reduce the environmental impact of your jeans. Spacing out washes, favoring gentle maintenance methods, and choosing responsible brands are all actions that contribute to more sustainable fashion. Your jeans will be all the more beautiful and durable while respecting our planet!
