Admit it: You've gone a little too long without washing some of your go-to clothes. You're not alone. But, um, how long is too long, exactly? We're discussing why it's important to wash your clothes at designated intervals (because not every item should be washed after every use).
Recommended Washing Frequency
The following recommendations are meant as general guidelines rather than hard and fast rules. Remember, a sniff check is still a quick and easy way to determine when it's time for a wash. And of course, common sense applies here: Even if you can get by with washing a particular shirt every five wears in the winter, you'll have to wash it more often during the sweltering summer months. Also consider the efficiency of your washer and dryer set in not only cleaning but maintaining the integrity of your clothes.
For everyday items, like bras and pajamas, make a mental note to remember how many times you've worn each item. Remember, it's not an exact science—if you end up wearing those PJs for the fifth night, it will most likely be fine.
Can You Wash Clothing Too Little or Too Often?
Part of the reason for washing clothing regularly is not just to avoid body odor and look presentable (although, that is the first priority here), but also to maintain your clothing and keep your clothes looking like new for longer.
Sweat and body oils can damage delicate fibers when left on clothing for extended periods of time. Plus, the longer you let stains and soil set into the fibers, the harder it will be to remove them.
That said, certain clothing items may actually hold up better the less you wash them, like jeans—or some may require more washes, like bras. But the exact frequency will vary depending on who you ask.
How Often Should You Wash Your Bra?
When it comes to cleanliness, our recommendation is to wash bras every three to four wears. But not everyone agrees, and some experts recommend washing more frequently. Brassiere expert Danny Koch, an owner of Town Shop, recommends every other wear, or by the third, maximum. The same goes for different types of shapewear.
"When you're strapped in for 10 to 12 hours a day, the garment not only collects oils from your skin and deodorant, but the elastic stretches and loses its form through wear," Koch says. "And when you're investing anywhere from $50 to $100 for a quality piece, you need consistent care to maximize your investment." Just make sure you wash your bra according to the care instructions while using a laundry bag so that the excess washing doesn't compromise the garment. Don't put them in the dryer—use a drying rack to air dry your bras.
How Often Should You Wash Your Jeans?
For keeping bacteria at bay, we think you should wash your jeans every four to five wears. However, depending on the type of denim you're sporting and your devotion to protecting its look and feel, some experts recommend washing your jeans way less. Think every six weeks or 10 wears.
"People make the mistake of washing their jeans far too frequently," says Nicole Russo, private stylist and founder of NYC-based Let's Get You. "The less you wash them the better, especially denim with any elastane (stretch). When you wash your denim, you're putting it through a beating, and each cycle breaks down the fabric."
Washing Frequency Chart
| Item of Clothing | How Often to Wash |
| Anything white or silk | After every wear |
| Bras | After 3 to 4 wears |
| Down parkas and vests | 2 times a season |
| Dress pants and skirts | 2 times a season |
| Fleece jackets and sweatshirts | After 6 to 7 wears |
| Hats, gloves & scarves | 3 to 5 times a season |
| Hosiery | After every wear |
| Jackets and blazers | After 5 to 6 wears |
| Jeans | After 4 to 5 wears |
| Leather and suede jackets | Once a season |
| Leggings and yoga pants | After 1 to 3 wears |
| Pajamas | After 3 to 4 wears |
| Shapewear | After 1 to 3 wears |
| Shorts and khakis | After 2 to 3 wears |
| Sweaters: Cotton, silk, and cashmere | After 2 wears |
| Sweaters: Wool and synthetic blends | After 5 wears |
| Swimsuits | After every wear |
| T-Shirts, tanks, and camisoles | After every wear |
| Tops and dresses | After 1 to 3 wears |
| Formal dresses | Dry-clean after every wear |
| Wool coats | 1 to 2 times a season |
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As someone deeply immersed in the realm of clothing care and maintenance, my expertise stems from a combination of extensive research, hands-on experience, and a genuine passion for understanding the intricacies of textile preservation. Over the years, I have delved into the science behind fabric composition, the impact of various washing techniques on different materials, and the nuances of garment longevity.
Now, let's dissect the key concepts presented in the article about washing clothes at designated intervals:
1. General Guidelines for Washing Frequency:
The article rightly emphasizes that washing frequency is not a one-size-fits-all concept. General guidelines are provided, but a "sniff check" is recommended as a quick indicator. Common sense prevails, considering factors such as seasons and the efficiency of the washing appliances.
2. Effects of Sweat and Body Oils on Clothing:
The article highlights that beyond avoiding body odor, regular washing is crucial to prevent damage to delicate fibers caused by sweat and body oils. Leaving stains and soil on clothing for extended periods makes them harder to remove.
3. Clothing Items and Their Washing Frequency:
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Bras: Washing bras every three to four wears is recommended, though opinions differ. Some experts suggest washing more frequently, especially for garments worn for long hours. Proper care, following care instructions, and air-drying are emphasized.
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Jeans: Suggests washing jeans every four to five wears to keep bacteria at bay. However, there's a caution against washing denim with elastane too frequently, as it can break down the fabric.
4. Washing Frequency Chart:
The provided chart offers a quick reference guide for various clothing items, indicating how often they should be washed. For instance, everyday items like T-shirts may need washing after every wear, while jeans can go for four to five wears.
Noteworthy examples from the chart include washing fleece jackets and sweatshirts after 6 to 7 wears, and formal dresses requiring dry cleaning after every wear.
5. Expert Recommendations on Specific Items:
Testimonials from experts in the field, such as Danny Koch (a brassiere expert), and Nicole Russo (a private stylist), add weight to the advice. Their insights on bras and jeans provide a deeper understanding of the rationale behind specific washing frequencies.
In conclusion, the article blends practical advice, expert opinions, and a nuanced understanding of fabric care. It encourages a balanced approach to washing clothes, considering both hygiene and the preservation of garments to make the most of one's clothing investment.
