Carhartt WIP is built to last, but how you wash it makes a big difference to how it ages. Look after it properly and a Detroit Jacket or pair of Single Knees will get better over the years. If you wash it hot and tumble dry it every week, you'll lose that.

Should you wash it before wearing?

Usually, yes. Carhartt WIP recommends washing most pieces before the first wear, because many are dyed and can leave colour on skin, furniture or lighter clothes early on. Wash it once on its own, then carry on as normal.

Rigid and rinsed denim is the exception. More on that below.

The basics

These apply to almost everything in the range:

• Wash cool: 30 degrees is plenty. Heat is what causes shrinkage and fading.
• Inside out: This protects the colour, prints and logo patches.
• Like colours together: Especially for the first few washes of anything dark or garment-dyed.
• No tumble dryer: Dry flat or hang to dry. The dryer is the main reason clothes shrink or twist.
• Check the label: Every piece has its own care instructions, and they vary between fabrics.

T-shirts, sweats and hoodies

Wash inside out at 30, then reshape and dry flat, especially heavyweight sweats, which can stretch if you hang them wet. Garment-dyed pieces will soften and fade slightly over time. That's how they're meant to age.

Canvas jackets and work pants

Duck canvas pieces, like the Detroit Jacket or Single Knee Pant, don't need washing often. Spot clean marks with a damp cloth and air them out between wears. When they do need a wash, go cool, inside out, and hang to dry. Canvas starts stiff and breaks in with wear, and the fading at the seams and pockets is what makes each one yours.

Denim

Rigid denim needs the most patience. Carhartt WIP advises against washing unwashed denim for the first nine to twelve months, so the fabric moulds to you and fades naturally. When you do wash it, turn it inside out, use cold water and hang to dry. Expect it to shrink slightly the first time.

Rinsed and washed denim has already been treated, so you can wash it cool and inside out like the rest of your clothes.

Outerwear

Down and padded jackets should be washed rarely and gently, following the label exactly. Most marks come off with a damp cloth. If a jacket needs a proper clean, a specialist cleaner is the safer bet.

Will it shrink?

Very little if you avoid heat. Most shrinkage comes from hot washes and tumble dryers, not the clothes themselves. Follow the steps above and your usual size will stay your usual size.

Need help?

If you're unsure about a specific piece, come into the shop on Yarm High Street or message us and we'll tell you how to look after it.