Enzyme Washing

What does Enzyme Washing mean?

A method of washing jeans to give it a worn look that uses cellulase enzymes.

Heddels explains Enzyme Washing

Originally developed as a more environmentally-friendly alternative to stone washing, enzyme washing uses cellulase enzymes to “eat away” at the exposed cellulose, loosening some of the indigo dye particles and giving the denim a worn, aged look. Once the desired effect is achieved, the temperature or alkalinity of the bath can be changed to stop the enzymes. Because it does not physically abrade the fibers, enzyme washing does not weaken the denim; instead, it simply makes the material softer and suppler.

Additional Resources

Here is look at the enzymes used in the washing technique:

Heddels Definitions - Enzymes