Knickers that can handle many washes

Short answer: Knickers that need to handle many washes need a solid fit, good seams and gentle treatment in the machine. Wash following the care label, avoid fabric softener and too much heat, and let them dry fully. That way they keep their shape and softness for longer.

What it means to last through many washes

Knickers are washed more often than almost any other clothing, so they are exposed to a lot of wear. What you notice first is usually the elastic losing its spring, or the fabric becoming thin and fuzzy. Durability therefore depends both on how the knickers are made and on how you look after them.

Always read the care label first

The label in the knickers tells you how they should be washed, and it is the safest guide. Follow the temperature and the other instructions, even if a high temperature is tempting when something needs to be properly clean. Cotton and bamboo do not react the same way to everything, so check the label every time you buy something new.

Low temperature and a gentle programme

Many knickers last best at a low temperature and on a gentle programme. It strains the elastic less and helps the fabric keep its shape. If you fill the machine completely, the clothes rub against each other more, so leave a little room. Always check the label for the temperature that applies to your knickers.

Avoid fabric softener

Fabric softener can leave a film on the fabric, which makes it less breathable and less soft over time. Choose a mild detergent instead, and rinse well. If none goes into the machine, the fabric often feels better in the long run. Do not use more detergent than the packet says.

Use a wash bag and sort sensibly

A wash bag protects seams and elastic from other clothes, and the knickers do not catch on zips and hooks. Wash them with other soft clothes rather than with towels or jeans. That goes for bras and other delicate underwear too, which deserve calm treatment.

Drying without stressing the fabric

Hang the knickers to dry or lay them flat if the label allows it. The tumble dryer can wear on the elastic, so check the label before you use it. Avoid placing them directly on a hot radiator, because the heat can attack the elastic. Let them dry fully before they go in the drawer.

Rotate your pairs

If you have enough pairs, you can alternate between them and give each pair a rest between washes. That spreads the wear evenly, and you avoid having one pair that is always in the wash. When one pair starts to lose its shape, you can replace it without replacing the whole collection.

Signs that a pair is worn out

Elastic that gives way, very thin fabric and seams that come apart are signs that a pair has done its job. Then you should replace it rather than keep using it. You can see a selection among bamboo underwear for women, and bamboo knickers are a good place to start when a pair needs replacing. Also see the range for women.

Frequently asked questions

How hot can I wash knickers?

Follow the label in the knickers. Many last best at a low temperature and on a gentle programme, because it strains the elastic and fabric least.

May I use fabric softener?

It is best to avoid it, as it can leave a film on the fabric and make it less breathable. Use a mild detergent and rinse well.

When should I replace a pair of knickers?

When the elastic gives way, the fabric has become very thin or the seams come apart. They no longer fit properly then, and a new pair will be more comfortable.