How to Wash and Store Your Way-High Jeans So They Last

By Everlane | Published: 2026-10-16

Category: Tips & Care

A practical denim care guide for Everlane's Way-High jeans: step-by-step washing, drying, and storage advice to keep dark indigo from fading and extend denim lifespan.

Quick answer

Wash your Way-High jeans inside out in cold water on a gentle cycle, then hang them to dry away from direct heat. For dark indigo, wait as long as possible between washes and use a color-safe detergent. Store them folded or hanging by the waistband to hold the shape.

Why denim care matters for the Way-High fit

The Way-High Jean 2.0 is made with premium organic cotton and a touch of stretch, so how you wash it affects both the fit and the color. Hot water and high heat break down stretch fibers over time, which can make the waist feel less supportive. Cold water and air drying protect the fabric's structure so the jean keeps holding you in.

Dark indigo is especially prone to fading if you wash too often or use harsh detergent. The goal is to clean when needed without stripping the dye. That means fewer washes, gentler products, and patience with drying.

How often should you wash your jeans?

There's no fixed schedule, but most denim experts suggest washing after 5 to 10 wears, or sooner if there are visible stains or odors. If you wear your Way-High jeans a few times a week, that could mean every two to three weeks. Spot-clean small marks between washes to stretch the time further.

If you're aiming to keep dark indigo from fading, air your jeans out overnight after wearing instead of washing. A quick hang in a well-ventilated room can refresh them without water.

Step-by-step denim care routine

1. Prep your jeans: Turn your Way-High jeans inside out and zip the fly. This protects the outer surface and prevents the zipper from snagging other items. Common mistake: leaving the zipper down, which can cause tears during the wash cycle.
2. Wash cold and gentle: Use cold water and a gentle cycle with a color-safe, mild detergent. Skip fabric softener and bleach, which can break down stretch fibers and fade indigo. Checkpoint: if your machine has a hand-wash or delicate setting, use it.
3. Skip the dryer: Lay your jeans flat to dry or hang them by the waistband in a shaded, well-ventilated spot. Avoid direct sunlight and radiators, which can cause fading and shrinkage. Never tumble dry on high heat—it's the fastest way to ruin the fit and color.
4. Store with care: Fold your jeans in half and stack them, or hang them from the waistband using clips. Avoid wire hangers that can crease the denim. For long-term storage, keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct light.
5. Spot-clean between washes: For small stains, dab with a damp cloth and a drop of mild soap, then air dry. This extends time between full washes and preserves dark indigo. Checkpoint: always test on an inside seam first.

Denim care details for these jeans

The Way-High® Jean 2.0 | Deep Indigo | 27.5” Inseam: Made with premium organic cotton with a touch of stretch, so sitting down isn't a deal-breaker. The stretch content means you should avoid high heat, which can degrade elasticity and cause the jeans to lose their hold.
Baggy Barrel-Leg Jean | Dark Indigo: Cut from lightweight rigid cotton denim, this high-rise jean has an exaggerated barrel shape with extra volume through the leg and added length designed to pool at the floor. Rigid denim holds its shape well but can crease if stored poorly. Hang or fold carefully to preserve the barrel curve and floor-pooling length.