What is Dye Transfer?

If you have ever noticed dark dye rubbing off your jeans onto your bag, shoes, or even your hands — you are not alone. It happens most often with dark-wash and raw denim because these fabrics hold a lot of extra dye when they are made.

Dye transfer is completely normal, especially when your jeans are brand new. It is also common with indigo-dyed denim, which gives your jeans their rich, deep color.

What Causes Dye Transfer?

During the dyeing process, denim is saturated with color to get that perfect shade of blue, black, or gray. While some of that dye fully sets into the fabric, there is often a little extra dye left on the surface. As you wear your jeans, especially before the first few washes, some of that dye can rub off onto lighter fabrics and surfaces.

How to Prevent Dye Transfer

Here are a few easy ways to keep dye transfer to a minimum:

• Wash your jeans before the first wear — this helps rinse away any excess dye. For best results, turn your jeans inside out, use cold water, and wash them alone or with other dark items. Skip the fabric softener, and let your jeans air dry to help preserve the color.

  • For darker denim, it may take a few washes before the dye fully sets, so be extra cautious during the first several wears.

• Use a gentle detergent made for dark fabrics — this helps preserve color and minimize fading.

• Avoid pairing dark denim with light accessories — especially in the first few wears.

• Be extra careful if your jeans get wet — moisture can speed up dye transfer.

Is This a Defect?

No — dye transfer is a natural characteristic of dark and raw denim. It does not mean your jeans are defective, and it will lessen over time as the jeans are washed and worn.