Keeping your wardrobe fresh while extending the life of your clothes is all about knowing when to wash and dry clean them. Overwashing can wear out fabrics while underwashing can lead to hygiene issues. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the best practices for your clothing care.
1. Jeans
Jeans are meant to be sturdy. Because of this, they can be worn 3-5 times before they need washing. In fact, over-washing can cause them to fade and lose their shape over time. Instead, if you spill food on them, try to spot clean stains and air them out between wears to maintain their quality and color.
2. T-Shirts
T-shirts should be washed after every wear. Most of the time, T-shirts are made of cotton, which means they absorb sweat, body oils, and deodorant, which can lead to odors and fabric breakdown if not cleaned regularly. If you don’t wash your T-shirts enough, they may start to acquire sweat stains. Opt for a gentle cycle to preserve their color and shape.
3. Workout Clothes
Workout clothes should be washed after every use. When you exercise, your clothes trap sweat and bacteria, which can lead to odors and skin irritation if you don’t wash them promptly. Turn them inside out before washing to target bacteria directly and preserve any moisture-wicking fabric technology. Not only this but not washing your workout clothes could lead to unsightly body bacteria.
4. Casual Dresses
Casual dresses can be worn 1-3 times before washing, depending on the material and how much you’ve perspired. Delicate fabrics like silk may require more frequent cleaning, while cotton can go longer between washes. Depending on how hot it’s been and how much you’ve sweated, how often a dress needs to be washed will determine how often it needs to be washed. Always check the care label for the best washing method.
5. Sweaters
Sweaters can typically be worn 3-5 times before they need to be washed. This is unless they’re in direct contact with your skin, in that case they may need to be washed every 1-2 wears. Air them out between wears to keep them looking fresh, and use a fabric shaver to remove any pilling from washing and drying them.
6. Button-Down Shirts
Button-down shirts that have been in direct contact with the skin should be washed after every 1-2 wears. Whether it’s a casual blouse or a work shirt, these tops need frequent washing. Pay special attention to collars and cuffs, which can accumulate oils and dirt from your neck and wrists. Always make sure to use a gentle cycle to maintain the fabric’s integrity and keep the top looking newer for longer.
7. Dress Pants
Dress pants can be worn 3-4 times before washing or dry cleaning unless they get visibly dirty from oil or food stains. To keep them looking their best, you should air them out between wears and consider using a steamer to freshen them up and remove wrinkles.
8. Skirts
Skirts, depending on the fabric and how often they’re worn, can usually be worn 3-5 times before washing. Lightweight fabrics like cotton may need more frequent washing as they absorb more odors and stains. Meanwhile, heavier materials like wool are more durable and can last longer between washes.
9. Bras
Bras are often garments we don’t think about when it comes to being washed. However, they can be worn 3-4 times before washing, depending on how much you sweat. Over-washing can wear out the elastic, so rotate your bras to allow them to rest between wears. Always make sure to hand wash or place in a mesh bag to maintain the quality.
10. Jackets and Blazers
Jackets and blazers don’t need to be washed often—typically every 5-6 wears. Unless you get visible stains, these jackets shouldn’t absorb too many odors. Spot-clean any stains and use a lint roller to remove dust or pet hair. Airing them out between wears can also keep them fresh.
11. Underwear and Socks
Unlike other clothing items, underwear and socks need to be washed after every wear. These items are in direct contact with your skin and absorb sweat and bacteria. Washing them doesn’t just keep these garments fresh; they ensure you stay healthy and hygienic.
12. Pajamas
Pajamas can be worn 3-4 times before they need washing. However, this may differ depending on a few factors. If you sweat a lot during the night or have sensitive skin, you will need to wash them more frequently than you might normally. Choose a gentle cycle to keep them soft and comfortable.
13. Towels
Towels are another item that often becomes an afterthought when it comes to laundry. Bath towels should be washed after 3-4 uses, while hand towels and washcloths need to be washed after every use. Damp towels can quickly become a host to thousands of gross bacteria, so it’s important to keep towels fresh and dry.
14. Scarves and Gloves
Scarves and gloves should be washed every 5-7 wears. This is especially true if they’re in direct contact with your skin. Depending on the material, they can be hand-washed or machine-washed on a delicate cycle. Because these winter essentials tend to be made of cotton, cashmere, and wool, it’s essential to read care instructions to ensure they don’t accidentally get ruined.
15. Swimsuits
Swimsuits should be rinsed out immediately after each wear and washed after every 2-3 uses. Chlorine and salt water can break down the fabric, ruining your swimsuits over time. Swimsuits also come into direct contact with the skin, meaning they harbor a host of bacteria if they are not washed.