Purpose -This paper reports on the effects of laundering on physical properties (pilling and edge abrasion) of washed denim fabrics. Design/methodology/approach -Garment washed denim blue jeans were subjected to repeated launderings; the effects of the cycles on pilling and edge abrasion were determined. Data were collected by means of a laboratory experimental factorial design. Analysis of variance was used to determine significant differences in the three garment washed treatments; pre-washed, stone washed and enzyme treated blue jeans. Duncan's test of multiple range determined the source of significance. Findings -The pre-washed jeans were more prone to pilling than the enzyme and stone washed jeans. On the other hand, the pre-washed jeans experienced the least amount of edge abrasion while the stone washed experienced the most. Practical implications -The results can be used by the denim garment manufacturers to design and engineer their products to suit the customer demands. Originality/value -Jeans are an important part of a consumer's wardrobe and a large portion of denim garments are manufactured with some type of garment wash treatment. Results of this study will provide denim garment manufacturers with pilling and abrasion information regarding garment washing treatments to allow them to utilize the garment treatment that best meets their needs.