It depends on the type of clothing and how often you wear it, but a general guideline is provided below.
The frequency with which you should wash your laundry varies depending on the garment and your activity level. Here's a breakdown to help you decide:
Washing Frequency Guide
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Shirts and Blouses: Wash after 1-2 wearings. This is because they are worn close to the skin and absorb sweat and body oils more quickly.
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Dress Pants or Slacks: Wash after 2-3 wearings, unless visibly soiled.
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Jeans: Wash after 4-5 wearings. Over-washing can fade the color and damage the fabric. Some people even go longer between washes, especially with raw denim.
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Sweaters:
- Up to 6 wearings if worn with an undershirt.
- 1-2 wearings if worn directly against the skin (without an undershirt).
Factors to Consider
Beyond the general guidelines, consider these factors:
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Sweat: If you sweat heavily while wearing an item, wash it immediately.
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Odors: If the clothing smells, it's time to wash it.
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Visible Stains: Wash items with visible stains as soon as possible to prevent them from setting.
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Activity Level: Clothing worn during exercise or strenuous activity should be washed after each use.
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Skin Sensitivity: If you have sensitive skin or allergies, you might need to wash your clothes more frequently to remove irritants.
Undergarments & Activewear
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Underwear and Socks: Wash after each wearing.
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Workout Clothes: Wash immediately after each workout.
Other Items
- Towels: Bath towels should be washed after every 3-4 uses. Hand towels should be washed more frequently.
- Bedding: Sheets should be washed weekly.
By following these guidelines, you can keep your clothes clean, fresh, and looking their best while also extending their lifespan.
