Maternity jeggings are a must-have in any pregnancy wardrobe. They combine the comfort of leggings with the style of jeans, offering flexibility, support, and a flattering fit throughout all stages of pregnancy. To make the most of your maternity jeggings, proper care is essential. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about caring for your jeggings—from washing to storage—so they stay looking and feeling great.
Choose the Right Fabric Blend
Before diving into care instructions, it’s important to understand the fabric of your maternity jeggings. Most are made from a blend of cotton, polyester, and spandex or elastane. This blend provides the stretch and softness needed for a growing belly. Pay attention to the care label, as different fabric compositions may have slightly different washing requirements.
Wash with Care
Washing your maternity jeggings the right way can preserve their shape and softness.
- Turn Inside Out: Always wash jeggings inside out to protect the outer fabric and preserve color.
- Cold Water Wash: Use cold water to prevent shrinking and fading.
- Gentle Cycle: Select a gentle or delicate cycle to avoid damaging the fabric fibers.
- Mild Detergent: Choose a detergent without harsh chemicals, especially since your skin may be more sensitive during pregnancy.
Skip the Dryer When Possible
While it’s tempting to throw your jeggings in the dryer, heat can break down elastic fibers over time.
- Air Dry: Lay flat to dry or hang on a line to maintain the shape.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Drying in the shade helps prevent color fading.
If you must use a dryer, opt for the lowest heat setting and remove the jeggings promptly when done.
Avoid Overwashing
Since jeggings are often worn for casual and lounge purposes, they may not need to be washed after every wear.
- Spot Clean: For minor spills or stains, try spot cleaning instead of a full wash.
- Freshen Between Wears: Use a fabric spray or lightly steam to refresh between uses.
Store Properly
Proper storage helps maintain the shape and fit of your maternity jeggings.
- Fold Neatly: Avoid hanging jeggings, as this can stretch out the waistband over time.
- Designated Drawer or Shelf: Store them in a dry, cool area with enough space to prevent wrinkles or warping.
Watch for Signs of Wear
Even with the best care, your jeggings will naturally stretch and wear over time.
- Check Waistband Stretch: If the waistband loses its elasticity, consider rotating it out of daily wear.
- Inspect Seams: Keep an eye on seams and stitching to catch any issues early.
Rotate Between Pairs
To extend the life of each pair, try not to rely on just one.
- Buy Multiple Pairs: Having two or three in rotation reduces the frequency of washes and wear on each.
- Choose Different Styles: Opt for variations like over-the-bump or under-the-bump to suit different stages of pregnancy and distribute wear more evenly.
Final Thoughts
Caring for your maternity jeggings doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little attention to washing techniques, storage, and fabric care, your favorite pair can stay soft, supportive, and stylish throughout your pregnancy—and maybe even beyond. Treat them well, and they’ll return the favor by keeping you comfortable every step of the way.
