How often should you replace your innerwear? Here’s what health experts say

Innerwear, which is worn close to the body, is the innermost layer of clothing, offering support and comfort. Compared to other outfits, it comes in close contact with sweat, bacteria, dead skin cells and odour. Although most people regularly wash them, that alone isn’t enough. Researchers and health experts advise against wearing underwear for extended periods, even if it is washed and kept clean. 

Shelf life of underwear
Experts recommend replacing underwear every 6-12 months. With time, underwear becomes the breeding ground for bacteria and fungus. It wouldn’t change even if they were washed every day. Wearing old or unclean underwear can cause hygiene issues, such as skin irritation, infection, and itching. Therefore, it is essential to wash underwear regularly and replace them at the proper intervals. 

Despite washing regularly, underwear may have microscopic holes in the fabric. Bacteria, fungi, dead skin cells, and bodily fluids get trapped in these microscopic holes and may not be removed even with regular washing. It promptly leads to hygiene problems, such as skin infections, allergies, and even odour. 

When should you replace inners
1. Stretched out elastic – When the elastic stretches out, underwear, especially bras, does not give proper support. 
2. Holes, fraying and thinning of fabric – Bacteria may get trapped in these areas and won’t be removed even by washing. 
3. Stains that won’t budge, blood stains and bodily fluids are breeding grounds for bacteria. 
4. An odour that doesn’t go away despite washing underwear regularly is a sign of bacterial growth. 
5. Faded colour is an indication that the fabric has lost its quality. 

How often should you change inners
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends changing them daily. You should change them if you sweat too much after working out or due to hot weather. Meanwhile, Mayo Clinic suggests changing underwear at least twice a day in hot, humid and dusty weather. Moisture, body temperature and friction may cause proliferation of microorganisms. Sweat, oil from the skin, and toxins from the atmosphere can mix with the fabric and cause fungal infections if the same underwear is worn continuously for more than a day. 

Which fabric is the best
Scientific studies recommend cotton as the best fabric to make underwear. Cotton reduces the risk of yeast infections and bacterial infections. Besides, this fabric keeps the skin dry and ensures good air circulation. However, synthetic fabric retains moisture, increasing the risk of allergies and irritation. Although replacing underwear or keeping them clean may seem like a trivial thing, these are crucial steps in maintaining hygiene.