PRO Courses Hot Guides Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade
QUIZZES All Quizzes Hot Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Trivia Quizzes Taylor Swift Quizzes
EDIT Edit this Article
EXPLORE Tech Help ProAbout UsRandom ArticleQuizzes Request a New ArticleCommunity DashboardTrendingForums Arts and EntertainmentArtworkBooksMoviesComputers and ElectronicsComputersPhone SkillsTechnology HacksHealthMen's HealthMental HealthWomen's HealthRelationshipsDatingLoveRelationship Issues Hobbies and CraftsCraftsDrawingGamesEducation & CommunicationCommunication SkillsPersonal DevelopmentStudyingPersonal Care and StyleFashionHair CarePersonal Hygiene Quizzes Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Fun Games ForumsArts and EntertainmentFinance and BusinessHome and Garden Relationship QuizzesCars & Other VehiclesFood and EntertainingPersonal Care and Style Sports and FitnessComputers and ElectronicsHealthPets and Animals TravelEducation & CommunicationHobbies and CraftsPhilosophy and Religion Work WorldFamily LifeHolidays and TraditionsRelationships Youth
LOG IN
Log in
Social login does not work in incognito and private browsers. Please log in with your username or email to continue. FacebookGooglewikiHow Account No account yet? Create an account
RANDOM
Home
Random
Browse Articles
TrendingNew
Quizzes & Games
All QuizzesHot
Love Quizzes
Personality Quizzes
Fun Games
Dating Simulator
Learn Something New
Forums
Courses
Happiness Hub
Explore More
Support wikiHow
About wikiHow
Log in / Sign up
Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow
Categories
Personal Care and Style
Clothing
Denim
Jeans
How to Reverse Colour Fading in Black Jeans Download Article Co-authored by Kamel Almani
Last Updated: March 10, 2025 Approved
Download Article
Re-Dyeing Faded Black Jeans
|
Preventing Fading in Black Jeans
|
Q&A
|Show more|Show less X
This article was co-authored by Kamel Almani. Kamel Almani is a Laundry and Cleaning Specialist and the Co-Owner of WashyWash, a toxin-free and eco-friendly laundry and dry clean service based in Amman, Jordan. Kamel and his staff at WashyWash use Blue Angel certified and dermatologically-tested detergents. They also combine EcoClean and digital technology to provide an eco-friendly, convenient, and quality cleaning service. Kamel holds a BA in Design from the University of Applied Science, Amman. There are 11 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, 93% of readers who voted found the article helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 305,511 times.
Black jeans are a great addition to any wardrobe, but keeping them looking new can be an uphill battle after too many washes and wearings. The indigo dye used to color the denim can bleed onto other fabrics or even onto your skin, fading over time. While you can’t reverse color fading in your jeans, you can prevent it from happening in the first place and re-dye the fabric if necessary. With the right techniques, you can easily revive any denim you own that has faded, maintain their deep color, and keep your style looking fresh and on trend.
Steps
Part 1 Part 1 of 2:
Re-Dyeing Faded Black Jeans
Download Article
1 Find time to re-dye your jeans. It’s best to choose a day where you have a few hours to spare. You’ll need to soak the jeans, allow them to dry, and make time for clean-up.
Wash your jeans first. Dirty fabric won’t absorb the dye well.[1]XResearch source
2 Choose a dark dye color. There are several brands on the market that can be purchased at craft or retail stores, in both liquid and powder form. Follow the dye brand’s instructions. You may need to boil water, or you may be able to use your washing machine instead of a bucket, pot, or sink to dye the jeans.[2]X Expert Source Kamel AlmaniLaundry & Cleaning SpecialistExpert Interview
Liquid dye is more concentrated and is already dissolved in water, so you can use less.
If you choose powder dye, you’ll need to dissolve it first in hot water.
Use the right amount of dye. Make sure to follow the brand instructions to ensure that you add the appropriate amount to the water.
Advertisement
3 Assemble your materials. You’ll need your jeans, the dye, a large metal spoon or tongs for stirring and lifting, rubber gloves, a plastic table cover or newspapers, paper towels or sponges, and a sink or tub to rinse the jeans afterwards. Make sure to have on hand anything else the dye instructions indicate.
Prep your work area with newspapers or the plastic table cover so dye does not get onto the floor or other items.
Don’t dye or rinse items in a porcelain or fiberglass sink or tub, as these can stain.
4 Soak your jeans for the indicated amount of time. The longer the jeans soak, the darker the color.[3]XResearch source
Make sure to stir the water often, following the brand directions. Agitating the jeans prevents any one sport from becoming darker than another.
Try a dye fixative. After the jeans have finished dyeing, a fixative may help retain color before rinsing. Plain white vinegar works, but there are also professional fixatives available for purchase.
5 Rinse. Rinse your jeans in cool, running water until the water runs clear. Squeeze out any excess water after rinsing.[4]XResearch source
6 Wash and dry your newly dyed jeans. Use gentle detergent and cold water, and don’t add any other clothing to the machine during the wash cycle.
If you use a dryer, dry jeans on the lowest setting or with no heat to ensure the new dye stays bright.
7 Clean up. Make sure to dump all used dye water down the drain, and rinse all items used to dye your jeans thoroughly with fresh, cold water.
Advertisement Part 2 Part 2 of 2:
Preventing Fading in Black Jeans
Download Article
1 Set the dye. Before wearing new black jeans, you can presoak them to set the dye color. Simply turn them inside-out, and soak them in cold water with one cup of vinegar and a tablespoon of salt.[5]XResearch source
Vinegar and salt act as a sealant on the jeans’ dye.
2 Wash before wearing. Toss your new jeans into the washing machine for several cycles in cold water to get rid of excess dye that will rub off on other fabrics and contribute to fading.[6]XResearch source
Use a fabric protector spray or dye fixative. Treating your jeans before wearing them with a fabric protector like Scotchgard or using a dye fixative may prevent initial fading.[7]XResearch source
3 Wash by themselves or only with other dark colors. Use the gentlest cycle and cold water.[8]X Expert Source Kamel AlmaniLaundry & Cleaning SpecialistExpert Interview [9]XResearch source
Turn your jeans inside-out before washing. Your jeans will get just as clean when turned inside-out and will endure less abrasion from the machine.[10]X Expert Source Kamel AlmaniLaundry & Cleaning SpecialistExpert Interview [11]XResearch source
Purchase a high-quality liquid detergent made especially for dark and black fabrics. These kind of detergents deactivate the chlorine in the water that can fade colors.[12]XResearch source
4 Try other cleaning methods. Try to avoid machine-washing your jeans as often as possible, there are a few other ways to keep them clean.
Handwashing jeans may be even better than the washer’s gentle cycle. Add a few drops of detergent to a sink, fill with water, and let the jeans soak for about an hour.
Spritz your jeans with a spray bottle containing a 50/50 vodka-water mixture, allow them to dry, and put into the freezer overnight to kill bacteria.[13]XResearch source You can also use white vinegar and water in the same proportions.[14]XResearch source
Steaming your jeans can get rid of both odors and wrinkles [15]XResearch source
Drycleaning is another alternative method. Make sure to point out any spots or stains for professional treatment.[16]XResearch source
5 Line dry or use the lowest dryer setting. Heat will cause further fading, so dry your jeans either with no heat or the lowest dryer setting, or let them drip-dry on a drying rack.
If you prefer to dry your jeans outside, choose a dry, shady spot where they will not receive too much sun. UV rays can damage the fabric and cause further fading.[17]XResearch source
Avoid leaving them in the dryer too long. Remove your jeans while they are still slightly damp to help preserve the integrity of the fabric.[18]XResearch source
Advertisement
Community Q&A
Search Add New Question
Question Can I use hair dye for this? Community Answer No, as it will not lock into the fabric and can therefore dye your skin and your other clothes. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 1 Helpful 12
Question Where can I get those dyes? Community Answer Dye is sold at most craft stores. If you want to use food coloring, that can be purchased at a grocery store. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 6 Helpful 4
Question What dye do I use, food colouring or something else? Community Answer You can use several different kinds of dyes, including food coloring or coffee, but fabric dye is recommended for the best results that will remain. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 2 Helpful 6
See more answers Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement
Tips
Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
You Might Also Like
How to Wash Black & Blue Jeans without Fading Their ColorStep-by-Step Instructions for Dyeing Jeans BlackHow to Make Black Clothes Black Again, With or Without DyeHow to Dye Denim: A Step-by-Step TutorialHow to Prevent Black Clothes from Fading in the WashHow toDye Fabric BlackHow toWash JeansHow toWash Jeans Without ShrinkingHow toDye White Jeans CreamHow toKeep Jeans Smelling FreshHow to Wash Dark & Black Clothes: Temperature, Cycle & MoreHow toRestore Faded ClothesHow toClean White JeansHow toSet Dyed Fabric Advertisement
Co-authored by: Kamel Almani Laundry & Cleaning Specialist This article was co-authored by Kamel Almani. Kamel Almani is a Laundry and Cleaning Specialist and the Co-Owner of WashyWash, a toxin-free and eco-friendly laundry and dry clean service based in Amman, Jordan. Kamel and his staff at WashyWash use Blue Angel certified and dermatologically-tested detergents. They also combine EcoClean and digital technology to provide an eco-friendly, convenient, and quality cleaning service. Kamel holds a BA in Design from the University of Applied Science, Amman. This article has been viewed 305,511 times. 3 votes - 93% Co-authors: 18Updated: March 10, 2025 Views: 305,511 Categories: Jeans | Cleaning ClothesArticle SummaryX
The easiest way to reverse colour fading in black jeans is to dye them with black fabric dye. Purchase a commercial dye, and mix it with water. Soak your jeans in the dye, and then rinse out the excess dye. Wash your jeans per normal. Read on to find out ways to keep your jeans from fading, such as only washing black jeans with other dark colours.Did this summary help you?YesNo
In other languages French Russian Portuguese Spanish Italian Dutch Arabic Japanese Hindi Vietnamese Korean Indonesian
Print
Send fan mail to authors
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 305,511 times.
Reader Success Stories
Noemi M. Orozco
Jul 2, 2019
"This article is great. It only reinforced and validated what I already knew about dyeing my jeans. I hadn't done so in over thirty years and this page was a tremendous help. Thank you."..." more
More reader stories Hide reader stories Share your story
Did this article help you?
Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Co-authored by: Kamel Almani Laundry & Cleaning Specialist Co-authors: 18Updated: March 10, 2025 Views: 305,51193% of readers found this article helpful. 3 votes - 93% Click a star to add your vote
Noemi M. Orozco
Jul 2, 2019
"This article is great. It only reinforced and validated what I already knew about dyeing my jeans. I hadn't done so in over thirty years and this page was a tremendous help. Thank you."..." more
Renesmee Corgan
Jul 15, 2017
"Really helped me! Thanks!" Rated this article:
Min Thant
Aug 6, 2017
"Now I know how to solve."
Alain Martinez
Jul 25, 2017
"A lot of help. Thanks." Rated this article: Share yours! More success stories Hide success stories
Quizzes & Games
What’s The Perfect Hair Care Routine For MeTake QuizWhat Color Should I Dye My Hair QuizTake QuizWhat Should I Wear Today QuizTake QuizDo I Smell Bad QuizTake QuizWhat Is My Style QuizTake QuizWhat's My Clothing Style Quiz (For Men)Take Quiz
You Might Also Like
How to Wash Black & Blue Jeans without Fading Their ColorStep-by-Step Instructions for Dyeing Jeans BlackHow to Make Black Clothes Black Again, With or Without DyeHow to Dye Denim: A Step-by-Step Tutorial
Featured Articles
How toRemove Shorts from Search Results on YouTubeWhat Are the Korean Animal Face Types? (And Which Type Do You Have?)Being the Little Spoon While Cuddling: Is It Better Than the Big Spoon?115+ Funny “Get Well Soon” Messages to Make Someone Laugh110+ “Fun Facts” for Interviews, Introductions, & IcebreakersHow Long Would You Survive In A Zombie Apocalypse?
Trending Articles
Which Fictional Character Would Crush On You?What's My Personality Based on My Song Choices QuizWhat's My Hottest Feature QuizIs My Crush Pretending Not to Like Me QuizHypersexuality TestWhat Are the Gay Male Body Types (And Which Do You Have?)
Featured Articles
How to Roast Someone in a Rap Battle (Plus the Best Bars of All Time)What Turns a Girl On? 31 Things to Try on Your PartnerLove AnalyzerSending Your Sweetie a Love Note? Here are 200+ Romantic IdeasHow toExercise Your BrainHow toBe a Fun Person to Hang out With
Featured Articles
What Does Your Morning Routine Say About You?How toDevelop Productive HabitsHow toPractice Self CareWhat Song Matches Your Life Right Now?Will 2026 Be Your Year? Reveal Your FutureUnderstanding the Most Attractive Face Shapes (& Determining Your Own)
Watch Articles
How toTie a Loop KnotHow toMake Body OilHow toMake Almond MilkHow toWash White Clothes by HandHow toSkin a ChickenHow toClean Tile Floors with Vinegar
Trending Articles
What Are My Soulmate's Initials QuizChoose Your Own Adventure GameYour Red Flag Based On Your Celeb CrushesHow Tall Will I Be QuizIf I Had A Baby, What Would It Look Like?How toLose Weight Fast
Quizzes & Games
What Makeup Should I Wear QuizTake QuizWhat Does My Hair Color Say About Me QuizTake QuizWhat Skin Type Do I Have QuizTake QuizHow to Choose Bed Sheets QuizTake QuizWhat Color Should I Paint My Nails QuizTake QuizWhat Are The Best Compression Socks For Me QuizTake Quiz
Categories
Personal Care and Style
Clothing
Denim
Jeans
wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.
Home
About wikiHow
Experts
Jobs
Contact Us
Site Map
Terms of Use
Privacy Policy
Do Not Sell or Share My Info
Not Selling Info
Contribute
Follow Us
×
wikiHow Tech Help Pro:
Develop the tech skills you need for work and life
Download Article Co-authored by Kamel Almani 
Step-by-Step Instructions for Dyeing Jeans Black 
How to Dye Denim: A Step-by-Step Tutorial 
Advertisement 
Co-authored by: Kamel Almani Laundry & Cleaning Specialist This article was co-authored by Kamel Almani. Kamel Almani is a Laundry and Cleaning Specialist and the Co-Owner of WashyWash, a toxin-free and eco-friendly laundry and dry clean service based in Amman, Jordan. Kamel and his staff at WashyWash use Blue Angel certified and dermatologically-tested detergents. They also combine EcoClean and digital technology to provide an eco-friendly, convenient, and quality cleaning service. Kamel holds a BA in Design from the University of Applied Science, Amman. This article has been viewed 305,511 times. 3 votes - 93% Co-authors: 18 Updated: March 10, 2025 Views: 305,511 Categories: Jeans | Cleaning Clothes Article SummaryX
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz 
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz 
643 
1 Find time to re-dye your jeans. It’s best to choose a day where you have a few hours to spare. You’ll need to soak the jeans, allow them to dry, and make time for clean-up. 
2 Choose a dark dye color. There are several brands on the market that can be purchased at craft or retail stores, in both liquid and powder form. Follow the dye brand’s instructions. You may need to boil water, or you may be able to use your washing machine instead of a bucket, pot, or sink to dye the jeans.[2] 
3 Assemble your materials. You’ll need your jeans, the dye, a large metal spoon or tongs for stirring and lifting, rubber gloves, a plastic table cover or newspapers, paper towels or sponges, and a sink or tub to rinse the jeans afterwards. Make sure to have on hand anything else the dye instructions indicate. 
4 Soak your jeans for the indicated amount of time. The longer the jeans soak, the darker the color.[3] 
5 Rinse. Rinse your jeans in cool, running water until the water runs clear. Squeeze out any excess water after rinsing.[4] 
6 Wash and dry your newly dyed jeans. Use gentle detergent and cold water, and don’t add any other clothing to the machine during the wash cycle. 
7 Clean up. Make sure to dump all used dye water down the drain, and rinse all items used to dye your jeans thoroughly with fresh, cold water. Advertisement 
1 Set the dye. Before wearing new black jeans, you can presoak them to set the dye color. Simply turn them inside-out, and soak them in cold water with one cup of vinegar and a tablespoon of salt.[5] 
2 Wash before wearing. Toss your new jeans into the washing machine for several cycles in cold water to get rid of excess dye that will rub off on other fabrics and contribute to fading.[6] 
3 Wash by themselves or only with other dark colors. Use the gentlest cycle and cold water.[8] [9] 
4 Try other cleaning methods. Try to avoid machine-washing your jeans as often as possible, there are a few other ways to keep them clean. 
5 Line dry or use the lowest dryer setting. Heat will cause further fading, so dry your jeans either with no heat or the lowest dryer setting, or let them drip-dry on a drying rack. 
Community Answer No, as it will not lock into the fabric and can therefore dye your skin and your other clothes. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 1 Helpful 12 
Community Answer Dye is sold at most craft stores. If you want to use food coloring, that can be purchased at a grocery store. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 6 Helpful 4 
Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy.