The fashion trends of the 80s thrived on defying norms and pushing boundaries. Acid wash denim became a sensation. The beloved dark indigo fabrics were transformed into battle-scarred masterpieces with white streaks and spots. Pretty much reminiscent of a laundry mishap with excessive bleach.
Distressing, a technique that altered the physical state of denim, emerged as an invention of the 80s. Stone washed denim fabric was introduced to the American market in 1982.
Read this article to learn more about 80s trends
The stone wash process involves chlorine bleach-soaked porous stones, which are tumbled in large washers. The stones repeatedly beat against the denim. This causes the fibres to break down and the dye to fade unevenly. This results in a distinctive mottled effect. This chemical bleaching technique, also known as marble, frosted, or ice wash, transformed denim into a worn-in, fashion-forward look.
Rising Popularity of Women And Men’s Stone Washed Jeans
Initially, many hesitated to purchase brand-new jeans that appeared aged and were often more expensive due to the added stonewash process. However, as unpredictable the fashion trends can be, soon acid wash denim gained immense popularity.
As the obsession with distressed denim grew, people took it a step further by customizing their jeans with deliberate rips and slashes. Starting with horizontal tears at the knees to expose the kneecaps, the trend escalated with slashes running up and down the legs. This created shredded jeans that exuded a rebellious vibe. Rockers and hair metallers flaunted these ripped-up bottoms, showcasing their edgy style. The most extreme manifestation of this trend involved rips across the buttocks, exposing the wearer to a daring draft. Some opted for modesty by adding sewn-in handkerchiefs. Some even chose to pair them with boxer shorts underneath, and many embraced the boldness of the look.
The distressed denim trend pushed boundaries to the extreme, with experimentation involving bullet holes, razor blades, and scissors.
However, like all fashion trends, there is a downside to consider. The pumice wash denim trend, popularized in the 80s, brought forth not only a fashion revolution but also raised concerns about the ecological consequences.
The downside of Pumice and acid wash jean
The process of acid washing involved the utilization of chlorine bleach-soaked stones. The disposal of the slurry became a significant concern. The release of the sludge into water bodies had adverse effects on aquatic life and ecosystems. Additionally, the excessive use of water and energy during the manufacturing process further strained environmental resources.
Click on this to learn more about the impact of washing processes.
Sustainable Denim Washing With Hand Made Stone
Over the past two years, Baytech has collaborated with laundries in more than 20 countries. It further incorporates their feedback to enhance the product’s abrasion and durability. Recent tests indicate that only around 20g of HMS is consumed per kilo of garment in a 60-minute abrasion cycle. Way lesser than the average 500g of pumice traditionally used.
The superior quality of HMS has received public approval from Baytech’s customers. Bill Curtin, the owner of BPD Washhouse, a prominent denim wet and dry process facility in the US, has also appreciated HMS. Curtin expressed satisfaction with HMS, stating that alternatives such as stone-free enzymes and plastic/rubber options failed to deliver the desired results achieved with pumice stones.
Read this article about the HMS-BPD collab
The Variations of HMS: The Perfect Fit for Sustainable Denim Stone Washing
Baytech is launching different versions of stones after research and development. One of the new variations is called “HMS Light.” This stone was developed in response to customer demand. HMS Light has a lower density than the original, making it ideal for use on thinner, weaker fabrics, mainly recycled ones. Its lighter density ensures gentle treatment while achieving the desired wash effects.
HMS Light, our newest addition, is explicitly designed for thinner and weaker fabrics, including recycled denim. Its lower density offers optimal performance without compromising the integrity of delicate materials.
Another variation being worked on is an only-polymer stone. Baytech has developed an only-polymer stone that offers exceptional durability. Although the company doesn’t endorse the concept of “forever” stones, it acknowledges the demand from customers who believe in their longevity.
HMS Polymer For Denim Stone Washing Process
While we don’t believe in “forever” stones, we understand that some customers do. As a result, we offer a polymer-based stone that provides exceptional durability, ensuring longevity in the denim washing process.
HMS Original Quick Facts:
To better understand the advantages of HMS Original, let’s take a look at its quick facts:
1. Reduced Stone Consumption: In a 60-minute process, only 12-16 grams of HMS Original are required per garment, resulting in significant material savings.
2. Dust-Free Performance: Unlike traditional pumice stones, HMS Original does not leave dust on garments, eliminating the need for rinsing after stonewashing.
3. Water Efficiency: HMS Original requires 20% less water per load due to its unique composition, which minimizes water absorption during washing.
4. Sustainable Composition: HMS Original is made from recycled pumice dust and biodegradable components, making denim washing an environmentally friendly choice.
5. Improved Environmental Impact: HMS Original is listed in the green range on the EIM (Environmental Impact Measuring) system, and it does not increase your EIM score, unlike pumice stones. This demonstrates the product’s commitment to sustainability.
6. Customizability for Enhanced Results:
HMS Original is highly customizable, allowing for the creation of different sizes of stones to meet the specific demands of various fabrics and stonewash processes. This versatility ensures optimal results and minimizes the risk of damaging delicate fabrics.
Contact us today to try our product today.
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