Are you confused about how often you should wash your clothes? Don’t worry. You’re not alone! With so many different types of clothing and fabrics, it can be hard to know what needs to be washed after every use and what can be worn multiple times before being tossed into the washing machine. In this article, we’ll provide you with some guidelines on how often to wash different types of clothes so that you can keep them looking and smelling fresh.

How Many Times Do You Wear Your Clothes Before You Wash Them?

Underwear, Socks, and Bras

Clothes that are worn close to the skin, like underwear, socks, and bras, should be washed after every use. This is because they come in contact with sweat and bacteria, leading to unpleasant odors and even infections if not washed regularly. However, as a general rule, Bras can be worn 3-4 times before washing only if you don’t sweat much.

It is important to use a delicate cycle or wash by hand when washing lingerie in order to avoid damaging the delicate fabric. After washing, dry them on an indoor drying rack to protect them from direct sunlight. If you prefer to put them in the dryer, use a low-heat setting and take them out as soon as they are dry.

Shirts and Blouses

Shirts and blouses that are worn next to the skin should be washed after 1-2 wearings. That’s because they can get sweaty and have bacteria, which can make them stink. However, if you wear a shirt or blouse over a t-shirt or undershirt, you can wear it more times before washing.

Dress Pants or Slacks

Dress pants or slacks can be worn 2-3 times before they need to be washed because they are typically made from durable fabrics that don’t show stains or odors as quickly as other types of clothing.

Jeans

Jeans are durable clothing that can be worn multiple times before washing. You can wear them 4-5 times before they need to be washed. However, if you spill something on your jeans or they get visibly dirty, it’s best to wash them right away.

Sweaters

Sweaters can be worn up to 6 times if you wear them with an undershirt. However, if you don’t wear an undershirt, you should wash your sweater after 1-2 wearings.

Suits, Blazers, and Casual Jackets

Suits, blazers, and casual jackets can be worn 5-6 times before they need to be washed since they are generally made from high-quality fabrics that can withstand multiple wears.

Workout Clothes

Workout clothes should be washed after every use. This is because sweat, dirt, and bacteria build up in them as you work out. Not washing your workout clothes may cause skin irritation, itching, or infections.

Sleepwear

Sleepwear can be worn 2-3 times before it needs to be washed. However, if you sweat heavily during the night, washing your sleepwear after every use is best.

Tips for Keeping Your Clothes Clean

Separate your laundry by color and fabric type to avoid bleeding or damage.
Wash clothes inside out to help preserve their color and prevent damage to buttons and zippers.
Use the appropriate amount of detergent for the size of your load and the level of dirtiness.
Avoid over-drying clothes, as this can cause shrinkage and damage to the fabric.
Hang clothes to dry whenever possible to reduce wear and tear from the dryer.

The Bottom Line

Knowing how often to wash your clothes can help you keep them looking and smelling fresh. Clothes that come in contact with sweat and bacteria, like underwear, socks, and workout clothes, should be washed after every use. Clothes worn over a t-shirt or undershirt, like shirts and blouses, can be worn multiple times before washing. Clothes made from durable or high-quality fabrics, like jeans, suits, and blazers, can also be worn multiple times before washing. By following these guidelines, you can keep your clothes fresh and clean without washing them unnecessarily.

Also read: How Often Should You Wash Your Sheets?

How Many Times Do You Wear Your Clothes Before You Wash Them?