Signs your bamboo underwear needs replacing

Short answer: Underwear should be replaced when the elastic has lost its grip, the fabric has turned thin or discoloured and the seams begin to give way. These are signs of wear, not of anything you did wrong, and it happens to all clothes worn close to the body.

When the elastic no longer holds

The clearest sign is the elastic. If the edge slides, rolls or no longer sits close, it has lost its grip and the underwear is not doing its job. Pull lightly on it and see whether it springs back. If it does not, it is time to replace it.

The fabric has turned thin or brittle

Hold the underwear up to the light. If you can see through the fabric where it used to be dense, or the surface has become rough and pilled, the fibres are worn. A thin fabric no longer sits calmly and can tear in the next wash, so replace it before the hole appears.

Seams that come apart

The seams carry much of the fit. If a seam sits loose or you see single threads sticking out, it is often the start of a hole. Do not mend it with a needle if the edge is worn all the way round, because it will simply open somewhere else.

The colour has turned grey or faded

When the colour has faded or taken on a greyish tone, the clothes have been washed many times. Faded colour is not a problem in itself, but it can look less neat under light clothes. If it is only the colour, the piece can still be used at home.

The fit has changed

If the underwear sits differently than at the start, it may be wear, but your body may also have changed. Measure yourself again and check the size guide before buying the same size. Another size may fit better, so you avoid replacing it with something that does not sit any better.

Check knickers and tops separately

Check bamboo knickers and bamboo tops for women separately, because they wear in different places. Knickers wear at the edges and gusset, while a top wears at the armhole and hem. Replace what is worn out and keep the rest.

How to make underwear last longer

Bamboo underwear for women lasts longest when you follow the care label, wash gently and avoid too much heat. Use a laundry bag if you like, and air dry. If you rotate several pieces, each one is worn less, and together they last longer.

What to do with old underwear

Worn underwear cannot be passed on, so do not put it in general waste if a textile collection is nearby. You can use it as cleaning cloths if the fabric is clean. Do not keep more than you need, so the drawer does not fill up with things you never wear.

In short, time for new underwear

Replace underwear when the elastic has lost its grip, the fabric is thin, the seams give way or the fit no longer works. Check it at regular intervals and follow the care label to get the most from each piece. Then you will know when it is time for something new.

Frequently asked questions

How often should underwear be replaced?

It depends on how often it is worn and washed. Look for signs of wear rather than counting months, especially in the elastic, fabric and seams.

Can I repair underwear?

Small loose threads can be fixed, but if the elastic or fabric is worn all over, replacing it is usually better.

Is faded colour a sign it should be replaced?

Not necessarily. Faded colour is mostly about looks, but if the fabric is also thin or the elastic is loose, it is time to replace it.

You can find the full range at Copenhagen Bamboo.