Myth, underwear only needs changing every other day

Short answer: Underwear should be changed every day. It sits directly against the skin, absorbs sweat and skin oils, and one day is enough for it to become a place where bacteria thrive. Outer layers such as jumpers can be worn for several days.

Where the myth comes from

Many people have heard that underwear can be worn two days if you have not sweated much. That is understandable, because it often looks clean and does not smell after one day. But what you cannot see is what matters. Sweat and skin oils settle in the fabric through the day, whether you have been active or not.

Direct contact all day

Underwear touches the skin every hour and absorbs everything the skin gives off. That includes sweat, skin oils and dead skin cells, which build up in the fabric over a day. This puts underwear in a different category from what you wear on top. See bamboo underwear for women.

Why one day is enough

Warmth, moisture and skin residue are exactly what bacteria thrive on. After a day against the skin, underwear has all three, and bacteria start to multiply. They are also what causes odour over time. A clean set every morning is the simplest rule. If you have questions about skin or infections, talk to your doctor.

Socks belong in the same group

Feet give off more moisture than any other part of the body, so socks should be changed daily. The moisture is trapped in the shoe, and the sock soaks it up. After a day it is saturated, and a fresh pair feels drier. See bamboo socks for men and women.

Outer layers are different

A jumper worn over another layer can easily be worn for several days. It is not in direct contact with the skin all day and absorbs far less. Air it overnight on a hanger or chair back, and it will be fresh again the next morning. Browse all our women's clothing.

How many sets you need

To change every day without washing all the time, it helps to have enough underwear and socks for a week or a little more. That way you can collect the laundry and run a full load instead of small ones. It is easier and better for your clothes, as they wear more evenly.

A wash that removes it all

Underwear and socks can be washed at forty degrees, which is enough for everyday dirt. Use the amount of detergent on the pack and avoid fabric softener, which leaves a coating on the fibres. Turn garments inside out so the side that was against the skin gets a thorough clean.

Airing and drying

Let underwear and socks dry completely before they go in the drawer. Moisture in folded clothes can cause odour, even right after washing. Hang them with space around them and wait to fold them until they are fully dry, so they are fresh when you pick a new set.

Frequently asked questions

How often should underwear be changed

Every day. It sits against the skin the whole time and absorbs both sweat and skin oils over a day, which gives bacteria good conditions.

Does that apply to socks too

Yes, even more so. Feet give off more moisture than the rest of the body, so socks become saturated fastest, especially in closed shoes.

What can be worn for several days

Outer layers such as jumpers and sweatshirts, if you wore a layer underneath. Air them overnight before the next wear so they are fresh in the morning.