Key Takeaways
- Sunlight Exposure: Place jeans in direct sunlight for natural fading. Hang them outdoors on a sunny day or lay them flat near a window for gradual color loss.
- Bleach Solution: Create a bleach solution by diluting bleach with water, then apply it strategically to areas you want faded. Use a sponge or brush for controlled application.
- Sandpaper Distressing: Use fine-grit sandpaper to gently rub and distress areas of the jeans, such as knees and pockets, to achieve a faded, worn-in look.
- Bleach Spray Technique: Fill a spray bottle with diluted bleach solution and lightly mist areas of the jeans. Control the intensity of fading by adjusting the concentration and distance of spraying.
- Whitening Toothpaste: Apply whitening toothpaste directly to areas of the jeans you want to fade. Use a toothbrush to scrub the paste into the fabric, then rinse thoroughly.
- Overnight Soak:Submerge jeans in a tub of water mixed with a small amount of bleach or laundry detergent. Leave them to soak overnight, then rinse and air dry for subtle overall fading.
It can be impossible to keep up with trends at times – they can change quicker than the weather does!
And what do you do with all of those once trendy clothes sitting in the back of your closet collecting dust?
DIY is a simple and fun solution to upcycling all of your old clothes into new ones that you will love once more!
Faded jeans are hugely popular at the moment, but buying new jeans can be very expensive.
Because of this, we are going to tell you how you can create your very own faded jeans out of any old ones that you have lying around!
So, if you want to breathe new life into your old clothes, then keep reading!
How To Fade Your Jeans
Faded jeans are a fashion statement and one of the easiest things to DIY.
You don’t need to spend all of your money on faded jeans when you could just upcycle the old jeans you have sitting in the back of your closet.
Of course, jeans fade naturally over time, but if you don’t want to wait that long, then don’t worry!
There are a number of ways that you can try to fade the color of your jeans yourself! In this article, we are going to go through a variety of methods that will fade your jeans…
Different Ways To Fade Your Jeans
We are now going to discuss multiple different ways that you can try out in order to fade your jeans!
From bleach to lemons to table salt, there is sure to be a method within this article that is going to work for you! So, what are we waiting for? Let’s get into it!
Bleaching Method
If you want to make a drastic change to your jeans, you can repeat this process until you get the results you want.
Bleach is a very strong and fast-acting chemical and should be used safely. The bleaching process takes a few days in total, depending on the finish that you want.
You want to make sure you get the right brand of detergent because some brands contain harsh chemicals which could damage your jeans, rather than just lightening them.
Bleach tends to work extremely fast and is one of the quickest ways to see results, however, it is also a lot harder to control.
For this method of fading, you will need the following:
— A pair of jeans – Choose the jeans that you want to fade. Any color jeans will work, just be sure to consider the color they will fade to when you are finished.
You can also use this method on any brand of jeans.
— A bottle of laundry detergent with a bleaching agent – Ensure that your product isn’t too strong so that your jeans don’t get damaged.
— An old toothbrush or brush – This will be useful for when you are applying the detergent to fade your jeans.
— Water – It doesn’t matter the temperature of your water.
— A plastic container – This needs to be a container that is large enough to fit the bleach/water solution and your jeans.
So, once you have all of your supplies rounded up, it is time to get into the actual fading process! Let’s begin!
Step 1 – To begin with, wash your jeans in cold water. If they have been worn out before washing, then wash them in hot water.
The main idea is to wash them off any surface dirt that may affect the fading process.
Step 2 – Once washed, let them dry completely before following the next steps.
Step 3 – Mix up your detergent according to the instructions on the label. This is the bleaching agent that will lighten your jeans.
You should always follow the instructions the products give you and consider how much product you are using. The more bleaching agents, the stronger the chemical will be.
If you want to use less of the bleaching product, be sure to dilute it first. This will also lessen the effect of the bleaching process.
You can use water to dilute the bleach until it is as strong or weak as you want it.
Step 4 – Put the jeans into the plastic container. Add enough of your solution so that the jeans are covered, so that they will lighten and fade evenly.
Make sure you do not overfill the container.
Step 5 – Leave the container somewhere safe where it won’t be disturbed. This should also be a well-ventilated area, especially if your bleach detergent is strong.
Step 6 – Let the jeans soak in the solution for around 15 to twenty minutes.
Be sure to check on them every so often – this way you will be able to see if they are lightening too much for your liking.
Step 7 – Using the toothbrush, scrub the inside of each pocket and the back pockets. Do not scrub too hard, as this may cause damage to the fabric.
Just apply gentle pressure. This is because the inside pockets are usually made of a different fabric that will soak the bleach and lighten at a different speed from the denim fabric.
Step 8 – After scrubbing, rinse your jeans with water, ensuring that all the product has been removed from the fabric. If not, the jeans may continue to lighten with the product. Then leave your jeans to dry.
Step 9 – Repeat steps 6 and 7 until the desired effect has been achieved. If you want your jeans to be more faded before simply repeating the process.
Remember that you can also make your jeans lighter with bleach but not darker.
Alongside this, be sure to consider the fact that the more times you bleach your jeans, the weaker the fabric will become.
Additionally, jeans will appear darker when they are wet, so remember that when you are deciding how light you want your jeans to be.
Step 10 – When finished, rinse your jeans and wash them thoroughly on a cold cycle. Leave them to dry, and they will be ready to wear!
The fading process with this method is incredibly fast and easy to do. You are sure to see results super quickly, which can be both a good thing and a bad!
On the one hand, you’re going to have faded jeans ASAP, but on the other, it can be very easy to bleach them too light or even ruin your jeans completely!
Bleach is a very strong chemical that can damage the fabric of your jeans, so be sure to go careful.
The Table Salt Method
Another way for you to lighten your jeans is through the salt method! It might sound crazy, but salt really can help to lighten or fade your jeans.
This is also a much safer way to fade your jeans over the bleaching method, however will not give as drastic results. This method works by dissolving the denim fibers.
So, what does this mean? Well, the salt acts as a solvent and dissolves the fibers. Once dissolved, the salt can no longer hold onto the dye and fades away.
For this method, you are going to need the following items:
— Salt – Table salt works just fine, however other types of salt can work as well.
— A bowl or bucket – Any size will do, but a larger one is better. You will need a bowl that will fit in the entirety of your jeans as well as the salt-water solution.
There should also be enough room for you to mix the jeans.
— Water – Enough to cover the jeans entirely while they are in the bowl.
— Your jeans – Of course, you are going to need the product that you want to fade! Any color or brand of jeans will do.
That is everything you need! This is a much simpler way of fading your jeans, however, you may have to repeat the process to get the results you want.
So, how exactly do you use this method? Follow these simple steps:
Step 1 – Take some table salt (roughly 2 cups) and add it to your bowl or bucket.
Step 2 – Fill the bowl or bucket with warm water and stir. Make sure to leave room to add your jeans, considering that the water level will rise once you do.
Step 3 – Put your jeans into the bowl or bucket and let them soak. Ensure that your jeans are completely submerged and allow them to sit for at least 30 minutes.
Step 4 – Remove the jeans from the bowl or bucket and place them on a clean surface. Gently squeeze out any excess water.
Step 5 – Place your jeans into the washing machine and run them on the hottest setting. Wash them as normal.
Step 6 – After washing, hang them up to dry. Do not put them in the dryer.
Step 7 – Once your jeans are dry, they will be ready to go! You may need to repeat the process a few times to get your jeans as faded as you desire.
The salt method is a great option if you don’t want to risk using chemicals or bleach on your jeans.
This is an effective method that won’t risk damaging the material of your jeans as much. Of course, as with anything, excessive repetition of the process can cause damage.
However, it is also important to note that this method will take longer than the bleaching method because the chemicals aren’t as harsh or dangerous.
Also, this method won’t result in as dramatic a change as the bleaching method.
So, if you’re looking for a fast and easy way to fade your jeans, then the bleaching method is definitely the best option for you.
But if you want something more subtle, then the salt method could be perfect for you. Either way, both can give you fantastic results.
But, if neither of these methods is working for you, or you want to try something else, there are still a few more methods that we are going to discuss.
The Sandpaper Method
This fades the jeans because the abrasive nature of the sandpaper causes the fibers to break down over time.
The problem with this method is that it takes a lot of work and patience. It’s very difficult to control the amount of pressure you apply when using this method.
And, if you apply too much pressure, you’ll end up scratching the material of your jeans. If you apply too little pressure, the effect won’t be noticeable.
In addition, this method isn’t always successful. Some people find that their jeans just look dirty after trying this method.
Others find that they simply don’t achieve the desired results. So, if you want to try this method, make sure that you know what you’re doing before you start.
Otherwise, it might turn out to be a waste of time!
For this method you will need the following:
— Your jeans – These can be any color or brand, just be sure to keep in mind the color change that will happen when you fade them.
— A piece of sandpaper (the thicker the paper is, the more it will damage the fibers of the jeans – making them ‘lighter’ in color but also more damaged)
— An old toothbrush
Step 1 – Start by putting the jeans in the washer. It is important your jeans are already clean before you start the fading process.
Step 2 – After washing, hang the jeans outside to air dry.
Step 3 – When the jeans have dried completely, it is time to start the process of fading! Use sandpaper and gently rub the surface of the jeans.
You may need to use a bit of elbow grease here. Make sure not to press too hard or scratch the material of the jeans.
Just lightly rub the surface of the fabric until you see some light marks appear.
Step 4 – Once you’ve finished applying the sandpaper, wash the jeans again. This step is crucial to ensure that all traces of the sandpaper and loose fibers are removed from the fabric.
Step 5 – Repeat steps 3 and 4 until you reach the desired level of fading.
Step 6 – Rinse the jeans once more, and hang them to finish drying.
One of the main cons to this method is that although you are technically fading your jeans, you are also damaging the fabric of the garment.
This means that they are probably not going to last as long as if you fade your jeans using one of the other methods.
This method will also give your jeans a ‘distressed’ look, rather than entirely faded. However, if you like the idea of having distressed jeans, then this is the best option for you.
The Lemon Juice Method
Then, the next day, remove the jeans from the solution and let them dry. This method works because lemon juice has acidic qualities that remove the color from the jeans.
If you want to try out this method then you are going to need the following:
1. Your jeans – Any color or brand will do.
2. Water – Enough water to cover the jeans while they sit in the solution.
3. A bowl or bucket – Something large enough to hold your jeans.
4. Lemon Juice
Once you have gathered all of these supplies it is time to treat your jeans!
Step 1 – Rinse your jeans with water and then wring them as much as you can so that they do not drip, but are still damp.
Step 2 – Put your jeans into the container and submerge them with lemon juice and water, mixed.
The higher the concentration of lemon juice, the stronger the bleaching effect will be.
So, if you want to make sure your jeans get faded quickly, put more lemon juice in the mixture.
Step 3 – Leave the jeans in the solution overnight.
Step 4 – Remove the jeans from the solution the next morning. They should now be lighter.
Step 5 – Wash the jeans again, and repeat steps 3 and 4 until the desired degree of fading is reached.
This method works well, but it does take quite a lot of patience. You may need to repeat the process multiple times before achieving what you want, which may become a bit expensive.
The only negative to this method is that it will take a while and a few goes before you see any results. Plus you might smell of lemons for the next few days.
The Vinegar Method
Another interesting method of fading your jeans is by using vinegar. This method is similar to the lemon juice method, except instead of lemon juice, you are going to use white vinegar.
It is important to note that vinegar is very corrosive and could damage some fabrics. So, if you are unsure about how to proceed, please consult an expert first.
To begin, you are going to need:
1. White vinegar – This is used to bleach your jeans.
2. A bowl – Something big enough to fit your jeans inside.
3. An old towel – For absorbing excess liquid.
4. Some newspaper – To line the bottom of the bowl so that the acid doesn’t spill over onto anything else.
5. A plastic bag – To place your jeans into when washing them.
So, once you have everything ready, here is how to proceed:
Step 1 – First, soak your jeans in the vinegar for at least 24 hours. The longer you leave them, the more they will fade.
Step 2 – After the required amount of time has passed, rinse the jeans thoroughly under running water to remove any product.
Step 3 – Place the jeans into the bowl and cover them with a towel. Make sure there is no air trapped between the towel and the jeans.
Step 4 – Let the jeans sit like this for another 24 hours.
Step 5 – Repeat steps 3 and 4 until the color fades to the desired level.
Step 6 – Wash your jeans and leave them to dry, then they are ready to wear!
The pros to this method include the fact that it is cheaper than the lemon juice method because you can purchase the vinegar in larger quantities.
However, the cons include the fact that it is extremely dangerous since vinegar is highly acidic, and could cause permanent stains on certain fabrics.
Also, it takes a long time to fade your jeans properly, so you may not notice much difference after just one or two applications.
Using Color Remover
An easy way to remove the color or dye from your jeans is to use a color remover. These products usually come in spray form and contain chemicals that break down dyes and colors.
Although these products do work, they can also stain fabric permanently, so be careful.
If you decide to try this method, make sure you test it out on a small area first so that you know what color your jeans are going to end up.
Distressing Your Jeans
If you wanted to give your jeans a new look, then you could try distressing them.
This is a great idea if your jeans are thinning or already damaged because it would make them appear as though they were made to be this way.
Distressed jeans are often worn out, ripped, or torn, and are often found in vintage stores.
They are typically sold at high prices, however, you can make them yourself for a fraction of the cost.
There are many ways to distress your jeans. Here are some examples:
— Using a hammer and nails – Use a hammer and nail to create holes all over the surface of your jeans. You can even add a design to the holes.
This is going to give your jeans a very distressed but still stylish look.
— Using sandpaper – Sand away the denim material to reveal the worn-out areas underneath. This is a great technique to use to fray the edges of the denim.
— Using a knife – Cut and scrape away the denim material to expose the worn-out areas underneath.
There are many ways that you can create your distressed jeans, but remember that the results depend heavily on what type of jeans you are using and the thickness of the fabric.
Which Is The Fastest Way To Fade Jeans?
So, out of all the ways we have discussed, which is the fastest method to fade your jeans? The quickest way is to use bleach.
Bleach is a highly dangerous chemical that can strip the fabric of its color very quickly.
Although bleach is certainly the fastest way, it is also incredibly difficult to control the areas of fabric that bleach, and thus the jeans may become uneven in color.
The bleaching method is also quite messy, and could potentially damage other items around you, especially other fabric products.
Bleach will take the color out of any fabric, so you need to be extra careful if you choose to fade your jeans this way.
The other methods take a lot longer than the bleaching method, however, they are a lot safer. They are also easier to keep in control of.
The gradual lift in color helps you to achieve the exact shade that you want. So, what is the best way to fade your jeans? Well, it depends on how fast you want to get rid of the color.
If you want to fade your jeans within a few days, then the bleaching method is probably the best option for you.
However, if you want to fade your denim slowly over several weeks, then the gradual lift through the other techniques is definitely the best option for you!
Natural Causes Of Faded Jeans
We all know that clothes don’t last forever and most products will fade over time, especially jeans or denim products.
Although we are going to discuss some ways that you can fade your jeans yourself, let’s first cover the conditions that cause jeans and denim products to fade naturally over time.
How To Prevent Natural Fading
Fading jeans is a natural process that happens over time with use and washing. It can also be caused by exposure to sunlight, chemicals, or other external factors.
Therefore, there isn’t much you can do about fading once it has started. However, there are things you can do to prevent it from happening in the first place.
Here are some tips on how to keep your jeans from fading naturally:
1) Use Good Quality Denim Products – The best way to keep your jeans looking great for longer is to buy high-quality denim products.
The more expensive the product, the better it is going to hold up. You should always look at the care instructions before purchasing any denim products.
If there isn’t one included in the packaging, check out our guide on How to Read Care Instructions.
2) Wash Your Jeans Regularly – This is probably the most important tip when it comes to keeping your jeans looking good.
Washing them regularly helps remove dirt and stains that may otherwise cause your jeans to fade faster.
Make sure that you wash your jeans inside-out so that they won’t get damaged during the washing process.
Also, make sure that you only wear your jeans once every two weeks as this will help prevent them from getting too dirty.
3) Avoid Excessive Exposure to Sunlight – Although wearing sunscreen is very significant, excessive sun exposure can damage your jeans.
When exposed to direct sunlight, your jeans will start to fade quicker than normal. This is because the UV rays will penetrate through the fabric and into the material.
As such, if you want to have jeans that stay looking new for longer, avoid being outside when the sun is shining.
4) Don’t Wear Them Too Tight – Wearing jeans that are too tight can also cause them to fade sooner than expected.
Try not to wear your jeans too tightly around your waist as this could lead to skin irritation and even rashes. Instead, try wearing loose-fitting jeans that allow plenty of room for movement.
Of course, if you want your jeans to fade quickly and naturally, then just do the opposite to these tips!
Final Thoughts
We have covered several methods to fade your jeans, and we hope that you find which one works best for you.
The most important thing when fading your jeans is to keep an eye on how fast the process goes.
It will take anywhere from 2 weeks to 1 month depending on which method you used. So, don’t get discouraged if it takes longer than expected.
In conclusion, there are many ways that you can fade jeans. However, the bleaching method is usually the quickest and easiest way to go about it.
For those who prefer to fade their jeans gradually, then using the gradual lift technique is probably the best option.
Regardless of which technique you choose, remember to follow the instructions carefully and take note of any changes that occur over time.
This way you are going to have the most control over your garment and the finished color.
Faded jeans are super fashionable and perfect for almost every occasion!
You can easily dress them up or down depending on the event you are wearing them too, making faded jeans an easy choice for anyone.
Each of the techniques has its own pros and cons, so it is best to research the best method for you specifically.
Alongside this, the thickness and quality of your denim will change the amount of time and products it will take to fade its color.
So, if you want a pair of faded jeans that last forever, then make sure you invest in high-quality products.
Hopefully, this article has been very useful to you, and you will have lots of fun breathing new life into your old jeans!
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