Knowing how often to throw your clothes in the laundry cycle can be a bit of a mystery. Do you need to wash everything after one wear? Are you washing things too often? Getting it right isn’t just about personal hygiene; it’s about preserving your clothes, saving water, and even protecting your skin.
Here at The Laundry Lady, we want to give you the lowdown on how frequently you should be washing different types of garments.
Why Does Washing Frequency Matter?
Washing clothes too often can wear them out prematurely. The constant agitation, heat, and detergents can fade colours, weaken fibres, and cause shrinkage. On the other hand, not washing clothes often enough can lead to a build-up of dirt, sweat, bacteria, and dead skin cells.
This can not only make your clothes smell unpleasant but can also contribute to skin irritation and even infections. Studies by the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) highlight the importance of clean clothing in maintaining skin health and preventing conditions like dermatitis. They emphasize that dirt and sweat trapped in fabrics can clog pores and exacerbate existing skin problems.
It’s also worth considering the environmental impact. Excessive washing consumes a lot of water and energy. Striking the right balance is therefore good for your clothes, your skin, and the planet.
A Garment-by-Garment Guide to Washing Frequency
Here’s a breakdown of how often you should be washing different types of clothes:
Every Wear:
- Underwear: This is a non-negotiable. Underwear comes into direct contact with your skin and bodily fluids, making it a breeding ground for bacteria. Washing after every wear is crucial for hygiene.
- Socks: Like underwear, socks accumulate sweat and bacteria from your feet. Daily washing is essential to prevent odour and fungal infections like athlete’s foot.
- Activewear: Workout clothes absorb a lot of sweat and should be washed after every wear. The moisture trapped in the fabric can lead to bacterial growth and unpleasant odours. Even if you didn’t sweat much, give it a wash to remove dead skin cells and any lingering bacteria.
- Swimsuits: Chlorine and saltwater can damage swimsuit fabrics, so rinsing immediately after swimming is a good start. However, a proper wash with detergent is recommended after each wear to remove chemicals and prevent fabric breakdown.
- Tops (especially in hot weather): Shirts, blouses, and t-shirts worn close to the skin, particularly in warm weather or during physical activity, should be washed after each wear to remove sweat and body oils.
After 1-3 Wears:
- Bras: Bras can be washed after 2-3 wears, depending on how much you sweat. Rotate between a few bras to allow the elastic to recover and extend their lifespan. Hand washing is often recommended for delicate bras.
- Trousers (Jeans, Chinos, Dress Pants): Unless visibly soiled, trousers can generally be worn a few times before washing. Over-washing jeans can lead to fading and fabric breakdown. Aim for washing them every 3-4 wears, or even less frequently if they aren’t dirty. Some denim enthusiasts even recommend washing jeans only when absolutely necessary, opting for methods like airing them out or spot cleaning.
- Skirts: Similar to trousers, skirts can be worn a few times before washing, unless stained or sweaty. The frequency will depend on the material and how active you were while wearing it.
- Dresses: Dresses that are worn for special occasions or that don’t come into direct contact with your skin (e.g., with a slip underneath) can be washed after 2-3 wears. Day dresses worn in warm weather may require more frequent washing.
- Pyjamas: Wash pyjamas every 3-4 wears. We shed skin cells and sweat while we sleep, so regular washing is essential.
Less Frequently:
- Outerwear (Coats, Jackets): Outerwear typically doesn’t need to be washed very often, unless visibly dirty. At the end of each season, consider getting your coats and jackets professionally cleaned. Spot clean as needed in between washes.
- Suits: Suits should be dry-cleaned only when necessary, typically every few months or after a significant spill. Excessive dry-cleaning can damage the fabric.
- Sweaters: Sweaters worn over a shirt can be washed less frequently, perhaps every 5-7 wears. If worn directly against the skin, wash after 1-2 wears. Hand washing or using a gentle cycle is recommended for delicate sweaters.
- Scarves, Gloves, Hats: Wash these items every few weeks if they’ve been hidden in your wardrobe, or more frequently if you wear them often or sweat while wearing them.
Tips for Extending Washing Intervals:
- Air out your clothes: Hanging clothes outside in fresh air can help to remove odours and reduce the need for frequent washing.
- Spot clean stains: Addressing stains immediately can prevent them from setting and reduce the need for a full wash.
- Wear an undershirt: Wearing an undershirt can absorb sweat and protect your outer layers from direct contact with your skin.
- Use a fabric refresher spray: Fabric refresher sprays can help to eliminate odours in between washes.
- Consider the fabric: Delicate fabrics like silk and wool require special care and gentler washing methods. Always check the care label before washing any garment.
When in Doubt, Wash It Out
Ultimately, the best approach is to use your judgement. If something smells, looks dirty, or feels uncomfortable against your skin, it’s time for a wash. Listen to your body and your common sense!
Need a Helping Hand with Your Laundry?
Keeping on top of your laundry can be time-consuming, especially with a busy lifestyle. Let The Laundry Lady help you take care of your clothes. We offer a professional washing service with pickup and delivery.
Book online a pickup and delivery laundry clothes near me service with us today and experience the convenience of perfectly clean laundry without the hassle!
