How to Stone Wash Denim for a Soft, Distressed Look

Last Updated: October 26, 2022

Stone washed denim feels soft and looks fantastic, but do you have to go to the store to buy the look? Actually, stone washing is super easy to do at home—all you need are some pumice stones and a washing machine! In this article, we'll show you step-by-step how to give the denim you already own that comfy, chic stone washed look. Go ahead and grab your jeans, because today is laundry day!^{[1]
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Steps

1
Place the clothes that you wish to alter into a washing machine.
2
Add 2 or 3 pumice stones into the washing machine with the clothes. Pumice stones were used in the original technique to create the stone washed look because they are abrasive and move thorough the clothes like sandpaper and remove the dye particles from the surface of the yarn.^{[2]
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- Start by using one small pumice stone in your wash if you're concerned about overdoing it.
- If you have not achieved the desired affect on your clothes repeat the wash with 2 or more pumice stones.
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3
Remove the clothing and pumice stones from the washing machine once the wash cycle is complete.^{[3]
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4
Repeat this method if you have not obtained the desired results. Remember not to overdo the pumice stone method as you may destroy the fabric of the material causing it to rip easily.
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Try granulated pumice soaked in bleach if the stones alone aren't working. Bleach helps fade the denim slightly, giving it a more distressed look.^{[4]
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6
Consider using bleach alone as an alternative to pumice stones. This is known as acid washing where dry clothes are bleached then placed in a washing machine.^{[5]
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Put the bleached clothing in the washer and clean using soap powder. The granules of pumice are removed.
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Consider a second wash if there is any lingering bleach residue on the clothing.^{[6]
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Community Q&A

Question

What type of machine are you using with one stone?

Community Answer

The article states to use two to three stones, not one, in your regular washing machine. Be warned that your washing machine could be damaged by this process. See the warnings section in the article.

Warnings

Pumice stones may damage the drum of your washing machine.

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When too many pumice stones are used, the fabric is damaged especially at the waistband and hem. Rivets and metal buttons may be damaged along with the clothing's dye. Jeans can be ruined with this process.

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