How Often Should You Wash Clothes?

When it comes to washing clothes, the question of how often to clean them isn’t always straightforward. Over-washing can wear out your clothes more quickly and waste time and resources, while under-washing can lead to odors or stains that are harder to remove. Here’s a simple guide to help you decide how many times you can wear different types of clothing before tossing them in the laundry.

1. Everyday Basics

• Underwear, Socks, and Workout Clothes: Wash after every use. These items come into direct contact with sweat and bacteria, making them hygiene priorities.
• T-Shirts and Tank Tops: Generally, wash after one wear, especially if worn directly against your skin or in hot weather.

2. Outerwear and Layers

• Jeans: Can be worn 3-5 times before washing, unless they become visibly dirty or smelly. Spot clean minor stains to extend wear.
• Sweaters and Hoodies: Wash every 5-7 wears if worn over another shirt, as they don’t directly touch your skin.
• Jackets and Coats: These can often go weeks or even a full season without washing unless they’re exposed to dirt or odors.

3. Specialty Items

• Pajamas: Can be worn 3-4 times before washing if you shower before bed. Otherwise, wash after 1-2 wears.
• Dresses and Skirts: Depending on the material and level of activity, wash after 1-3 wears.

4. Bedding and Towels

• Bath Towels: Wash after 3-5 uses to prevent mildew buildup. Ensure they dry fully between uses.
• Sheets: Aim to wash weekly for hygiene and comfort.

What About Stains?

You might think that every accident, spill or grass stain requires a full wash cycle. However, stains are best treated immediately, before they've had time to dry and set into the fabric. So, spot treating a stain as close to it's occurrence is the best course of action. Depending on the severity of a stain and the overall cleanliness of the clothing article, you may be able to simply spot treat and hand-rinse the stain to restore it to wearable quality without the need to run your washing machine.

Why It Matters

Washing less often helps your clothes last longer and saves water, energy, and money. It also minimizes the environmental impact of your laundry routine. Use your judgment—if something looks or smells dirty, wash it, but don’t feel obligated to clean items after every wear if they’re still fresh. By finding a balance, you’ll save time, money, and resources while keeping your wardrobe in great shape.

Happy Washing!