How many times can you wear your clothes before tossing them in the laundry? Let's dive into the specifics and make your wardrobe management a breeze! Washing them the correct amount of times not only increases the lifetime of the clothing item but is also better for the planet!
We recently read Real Simple’s Guide to washing and thought we would share our thoughts.
Of course, when you have worn an item, but it isn’t dirty, always keep it off the floor, out of the cupboard and on your Floor-Drobe.
- Sweaters (7 Wears): Sweaters, especially those made from cozy materials like wool or cashmere, don't need frequent washing. After all, who doesn't love the comfort of a perfectly worn-in sweater? We would aim for around 7 wears before giving it a fresh start in the laundry.
- Jeans (5 Wears): Denim is a durable fabric that doesn't require constant washing. Jeans can maintain their shape and colour. So Real Simple suggests 5 wears although we think this may be a bit low as can seem to be clean for a long time. Of course, spot clean as needed to keep them looking sharp.
- Pants/Skirts (5 Wears): Similar to jeans, pants and skirts benefit from fewer washes to preserve their quality. We would aim for 5 wears, but always use your judgment based on the specific fabric and how much wear they've experienced.
- Shirts and Tanks (3 Wears): Tops worn close to the skin may accumulate more sweat and odors. Real Simple advises to wash shirts and tanks every 3 wears to keep them fresh and ready for your next outing. Judgement counts on this one, if for some reason you’ve had to sprint across town, give it a wash.
- Activewear (3 Wears): With activewear being lounge wear these days, there is no need to clean after every wear, especially if it is for a couple of hours after work. However, if you manage to get active in your activewear then, please, give it a wash immediately.
- Underwear (1 Wear): Undergarments come into direct contact with your skin, making them the most hygienic item on this list. Stick to the golden rule: one wear, one wash. Also, keep a well-stocked supply for convenience.
Conclusion:
With this handy wear guide from Real Simple, you can make the most of your wardrobe while ensuring your clothes stay fresh and clean. Remember, these recommendations are general guidelines, and personal factors like climate, activity level, and personal preferences can influence your decision to wash sooner or later. Happy wearing!