Should You Wash Your Clothes Inside Out? Here’s Why It Matters

Why Should You Wash Clothes Inside Out?

Washing your clothes inside out may seem like an unnecessary step, but it can actually provide a lot of benefits. This simple technique helps reduce wear and tear on the outer surface of your clothing, preserving their color, texture, and appearance over time. Here’s why washing inside out matters for your wardrobe.

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Protecting Colors from Fading

One of the most important reasons to wash your clothes inside out is to prevent fading. The friction and agitation of the washing machine can cause the outer surface of your clothes to wear down, which leads to color loss, especially in bright or dark-colored garments. By turning your clothes inside out, you shield the outside layer from direct contact with other items and the washing drum, helping to maintain vibrant colors for longer.

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Preventing Pilling and Fabric Damage

Fabrics like wool, cotton, and synthetic blends are prone to pilling, which happens when loose fibers on the surface of the fabric rub together during washing, forming small, unsightly balls of fiber. Washing your clothes inside out can help minimize pilling by keeping the friction away from the outer layer.

This is particularly important for items like sweaters, t-shirts, and leggings, where the fabric is more delicate or stretchy. Turning them inside out reduces wear on the fabric and can help keep them looking newer for longer.

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Protecting Prints and Embellishments

Clothes with prints, embroidery, or embellishments (like sequins or patches) are especially vulnerable to damage during washing. The washing process can cause these decorations to peel, fade, or fall off. Turning such clothes inside out provides a layer of protection and ensures the prints or decorations aren’t rubbed against other garments or the walls of the washing machine.

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Reducing Friction in Delicate Fabrics

Delicate fabrics such as silk, lace, or fine knits can be easily damaged during the wash cycle. Even on a gentle wash, friction with other items can weaken the fibers and cause wear over time. Washing these items inside out minimizes the direct contact between the fabric and other garments, which reduces the chance of damage and helps keep the fabric intact.

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Avoiding Zipper and Button Snags

Zippers, buttons, and hooks can cause unexpected damage in the wash by catching on other items. Washing clothes inside out helps reduce this risk by keeping those elements on the inside, where they’re less likely to snag and cause pulls or tears in other garments.

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Washing Jeans Inside Out for Longer Wear

Denim is one of the fabrics that benefits the most from being washed inside out. Washing jeans inside out can help preserve their color, especially if they’re dark-wash or black. Denim is prone to fading when exposed to the constant friction of a washing machine, but keeping the outer surface protected will help the jeans maintain their original shade.

Additionally, washing jeans inside out can help prevent excessive wear on the fabric, especially in high-stress areas like the knees and thighs, keeping them in good shape for longer.

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When Shouldn’t You Wash Clothes Inside Out?

While washing inside out can help protect clothes, there are certain situations where it’s not necessary:

• Heavily Soiled Garments: If a piece of clothing is heavily stained or dirty on the outside, you’ll want the outer surface to be exposed to the wash so that the detergent can clean it more effectively.
• Clothes with Large Buttons or Buckles: If an item has large hardware, like oversized buttons or decorative buckles, washing it inside out could increase the chance of those features getting caught on other items. In this case, washing as is—or placing the item in a mesh laundry bag—might be better.

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How to Wash Clothes Inside Out for Best Results

1. Sort Your Laundry First: Separate your clothes by color and fabric type before turning anything inside out.
2. Zip and Button Before Turning: Fasten any zippers or buttons before turning your clothes inside out. This will help prevent them from snagging on other items in the wash.
3. Choose the Right Detergent and Cycle: For delicate items or clothes that are prone to fading, choose a gentle cycle and use a detergent designed for colors.
4. Air Dry When Possible: To further protect your clothes, air-dry them instead of using a machine dryer. This reduces heat exposure and wear.

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FAQs

Does washing inside out really make a difference?
Yes, washing clothes inside out helps reduce fading, fabric damage, and pilling, especially for dark colors, delicate fabrics, and items with prints or embellishments.

Should I always wash jeans inside out?
Yes, turning jeans inside out helps prevent color fading and reduces wear in high-stress areas like the knees and thighs, keeping them looking good for longer.

What about heavily soiled clothes?
If a garment is particularly dirty or stained on the outside, it’s best to wash it as is so the detergent can clean it effectively. For general wear, though, inside-out washing is beneficial.

Can I wash all fabrics inside out?
Most fabrics benefit from being washed inside out, especially delicate or colored garments. However, for items with large buttons or buckles, it’s best to wash them normally to avoid snags.