How To Wash Your Cargo Pants | Cargo Pants Guide

A Complete Guide to Washing and Caring for Your Cargo Pants

Cargo pants are a versatile wardrobe staple, perfect for both casual outings and rugged adventures. To ensure your cargo pants stay in best shape and last longer, it’s important to give them the proper care they deserve. Whether you’re dealing with stains, repairing damages, or storing them away, we’ve got you covered with this comprehensive guide on How to wash and take care of your beloved cargo pants.

How often should I wash my cargo pants?

The frequency of washing your cargo pants depends on how often you wear them and the level of dirt or odor they accumulate. In general, it’s a good idea to wash cargo pants after 3 to 5 wears.

Before Washing your cargo pants we recommend you these follwing procedures:

1. Check Clothing Labels: The care instructions on the clothing labels provide valuable guidance on how to wash and care for your cargo pants. Follow these instructions closely to avoid damaging the fabric or altering the fit.
2. Inspect for Stains and Damage: Examine your cargo pants for any stains or areas that require special attention. Addressing stains before washing can prevent them from setting into the fabric. Additionally, make any necessary repairs, such as sewing loose buttons or mending tears, to prevent further damage during the washing process.
3. Consider Fabric Type: Different fabrics may require different washing methods. Delicate fabrics like silk or linen may need to be hand-washed, while sturdy fabrics like denim can withstand machine washing.

Hand Washing Your Cargo Pants

For cargo pants made from delicate fabrics or featuring embellishments, hand washing is often the safest option:

1. Gather Supplies: You’ll need a large sink or basin, mild laundry detergent, soft towels, and fabric-safe stain remover.
2. Fill with Cool Water: Fill the sink or basin with lukewarm water, avoiding hot water that could cause fading or shrinking.
3. Swish and Soak: Add a small amount of mild detergent to the water and gently swish to create suds. Submerge your cargo pants fully and allow them to soak for 15-30 minutes to loosen dirt and stains.
4. Drain and Rinse: Drain the soapy water and rinse the cargo pants thoroughly under cool running water until all detergent residue is removed.
5. Roll and Press: Roll the pants in a clean towel to absorb excess water, then gently press to remove remaining moisture.
6. Lay Flat to Dry: Lay your cargo pants flat on a drying rack or clean towel to air dry. Avoid hanging them, as this can cause stretching or misshaping.

Machine Washing Your Cargo Pants

For most standard cargo pants, machine washing is a convenient and effective option:

1. Wash in Cold Water: Use the coolest water temperature recommended for the fabric to prevent shrinking and fading.
2. Select the Gentle Cycle: Choose the gentle cycle on your washing machine to minimize agitation and reduce the risk of damage to the fabric.
3. Use Less Detergent: Add a small amount of mild detergent to the wash cycle, measuring carefully to avoid excess suds that can cling to the fabric.
4. Reduce Spin Speed: Opt for a lower spin speed or no spin at all to be gentle on the fabric and seams.
5. Remove Promptly: Remove your cargo pants from the washing machine promptly after the cycle ends to prevent wrinkles from setting in.

Drying Your Cargo Pants

Proper drying techniques are essential to maintain the shape and integrity of your cargo pants:

1. Lay Flat to Air Dry: Whenever possible, air dry your cargo pants by laying them flat on a drying rack or clean towel. Avoid hanging them, as this can cause stretching or distortion.
2. Machine Dry Using Low Heat: If using a dryer, select the lowest heat setting to prevent damage to the fabric. Remove the pants promptly once dry to prevent wrinkles from setting in.
3. Steam to Remove Wrinkles: If your cargo pants are wrinkled after washing, use a garment steamer on low heat to gently remove wrinkles and creases.
4. Fold Properly for Storage: Neatly fold your cargo pants and store them in a cool, dry place to prevent wrinkles and maintain their shape.

Special Tips for Different Fabrics from Us

Depending on the fabric of your cargo pants, you may need to take additional precautions:

Corduroy: Wash corduroy pants inside out to prevent pilling, and hang dry to maintain the ribbing.

Denim: Wash denim pants inside out in cold water to prevent fading and bleeding of dye.

Stretch: Use a mesh garment bag to protect stretch fabric from friction damage during washing.

Oiled or Waxed: Spot clean oiled or waxed pants to avoid damaging the finish.

Linen: Hand wash linen pants or use the most delicate cycle to avoid rips and wrinkles.

Pro tip

You can use a little vinegar while washing your cargo pants. Vinegar is a natural cleaner and deodorizer that can help remove stains, odors, and buildup from clothing. It is particularly useful for items that have mildew or musty odors, as vinegar can help eliminate these smells. Remember to use it in small quantity.

By following these simple steps, you can keep your cargo pants looking great and ready for any adventure that comes your way. Remember to always check the care labels and take special precautions for different fabrics to ensure the long life of your favorite wardrobe essential. Happy washing!

FAQs

Can I machine-dry my cargo pants?

While machine drying is convenient, it’s best to avoid high heat settings when drying cargo pants. High heat can cause shrinkage and damage to the fabric. Instead, opt for the lowest heat setting or consider air drying your cargo pants to preserve their shape and integrity.

How do I remove tough stains from my cargo pants?

For tough stains on cargo pants, it’s important to treat the stain promptly before washing. You can use a fabric-safe stain remover or pre-treat the stain with a mixture of water and mild detergent. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals, as they may damage the fabric.

Can I wash my cargo pants with other clothing items?

Yes, you can wash your cargo pants with other clothing items, but it’s important to consider each item’s fabric type and care instructions. Avoid washing cargo pants with delicate fabrics or items that may bleed color, and always check the care labels to ensure compatibility.

How should I store my cargo pants between wears?

To maintain the shape and condition of your cargo pants, it’s best to fold them neatly and store them in a cool, dry place such as a drawer or closet. Avoid hanging them for long periods, as this can cause stretching or misshaping of the fabric.

What should I do if my cargo pants have special features like reflective strips or Velcro fasteners?

When washing cargo pants with special features like reflective strips or Velcro fasteners, it’s important to turn them inside out and close all zips and fastenings before washing. This helps prevent damage to the garment and ensures the longevity of these features.

Can I use fabric softener when washing my cargo pants?

It’s generally recommended to avoid using fabric softener when washing cargo pants, as it can leave residue on the fabric and affect the performance of certain materials. Instead, use a small amount of liquid detergent to clean your cargo pants effectively.