Acid Wash Hoodies: What They Are, How to Wash Them & How to Style

What is an acid wash hoodie?

An acid wash hoodie is a fleece hoodie that's been garment-washed after sewing to create a faded, marbled, lived-in color. No two come out exactly alike, which is why it looks vintage straight out of the bag. Stone wash, snow wash and sun fade are close cousins.

Acid wash vs. stone wash vs. sun fade

• Acid wash: high-contrast marbling, the boldest look.
• Stone / snow wash: softer, speckled fade.
• Sun fade: uneven fading that looks like years in the sun.

How do you wash an acid wash hoodie?

Turn it inside out, wash cold on gentle with similar colors, skip bleach, and hang dry or tumble low. Cold water and low heat keep the fade even and stop the fleece from shrinking.

Can you acid wash a hoodie yourself?

You can with diluted bleach, but results are uneven, it can weaken the fabric, and it needs gloves and ventilation. A pre-washed hoodie gives you the look without the risk.

How to style it

Let the hoodie be the loud piece. Pair it with washed sweatpants in a matching tone for a set, or with black wide-leg pants. A boxy fit keeps it current — see our boxy hoodie picks.

Our picks

The Bachi Full Zip Hoodie ($65.94) and the Tony Sleeveless Sun Fade Hoodie ($71.94) are two favorites. Shop every acid wash hoodie or browse New Arrivals.

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