How often should you replace your underwear?

Nothing great was ever achieved in out of shape briefs. As women big on sustainability, we prioritise getting the most out of our undies – so we know how hard it can be to part ways with that beloved pair stored at the back of your lingerie drawer. However, it's important to know when to say goodbye. Nothing good ever comes from holding onto old briefs – no matter how lucky they might be! So, how often should you replace your underwear? It's not a popular topic between friends, and it's certainly not something you chat about on the school run. Below, we've covered all you need to know about how often you should replace your underwear.

So how often should you buy new underwear?

There is no one-size-fits-all option when it comes to how often you should replace your underwear. However, as a general rule of thumb, we'd recommend replacing your underwear every six months to a year. How often you should replace your underwear comes down to various factors, one being how many pairs of underwear you have. The fewer briefs you have, the more each pair will go through daily wear and wash cycles. Over time this can impact their quality, so you might have to replace your underwear more often than someone who has more sets. At Stripe & Stare, all of our briefs are made with TENCEL™, a super-soft, sustainable fabric made from wood pulp. It is ultra-comfortable and renowned for its long-lasting properties so that you can enjoy your underwear for longer!

How to make your underwear last longer

Invest in high-quality underwear. We've all heard the saying 'buy cheap, buy twice. Well, when it comes to underwear, this rings true. Higher quality underwear is designed using premium fabrics, meaning that it will last longer and withstand more wear. At Stripe & Stare, our products are made with 95% TENCEL™ fabric. Why? We care deeply about sustainability, the world we are leaving behind for the future, and designing our comfy, durable briefs for customers.

Wash with care. Make sure to follow the care instructions on the label of your underwear for the recommended washing temperatures and methods. Though a lifesaver at times, your washing machine can be harsh on your intimates. Give your briefs a break from the machine by hand washing them when you can. Simply add a drop of laundry detergent into the sink, and once complete, hang to dry! If machine washing, try using a laundry bag. This will protect your underwear from wear and tear, which will eventually cause the fabric to break down.

Rotate your collection. Having a larger rotation means each pair is worn and washed less frequently, reducing the amount of wear and tear your briefs go through. If your underwear drawer is in need of some fresh faces, look no further...

Why is it important to replace your knickers?

Replacing your briefs isn't just about looking and feeling good – It's also important for hygiene reasons. Over time, bacteria can accumulate in your underwear – particularly in the underwear you wear most frequently. This can put you at an increased risk of urinary tract and yeast infections, as well as unpleasant skin irritation. Whilst the risk of such health problems is low, it's better to be safe than sorry. Replacing your underwear when you're supposed to will completely eradicate this risk and keep you happy and healthy!

Signs it's time to replace your underwear.

Knowing when to replace your briefs isn't a science. It's an art. Below, we've covered the telltale signs and symptoms that tell you when it's time to say farewell to the old and hello to the new.

Holes. Holes are a sign of a well-worn, well-loved pair of briefs. They're also a sign that it's time to let go.

Tears. After plenty of wear and wash cycles, the fabric of your underwear will eventually wear down, resulting in dreaded wear and tear. Unfortunately, when your knickers are sporting tears, there's no coming back.

Stains. Stubborn stains are a part of everyday life. However, if your favourite detergent or a round of bleach can't get rid of the stains, it's time to bid farewell.

Your underwear has stretched or lost its shape. Your briefs should empower you. They should fit like a glove and give you the confidence to get through whatever the week brings. If your underwear has lost its shape, it's definitely time for an upgrade. You might be surprised by how good new underwear will make you feel!

What to do with old underwear?

Throwing your old underwear in the bin might be tempting; however, it's not the most eco-friendly way to dispose of it. Below, we've listed three sustainable ways to dispose of your underwear that you might not have thought of.

Donate them. Several brands will take back your old underwear to repurpose the fabric, whilst there are other organisations where you can donate your used garments to for recycling purposes. When you can, it's always a better idea to recycle than put them in the bin.

Make rags. The fashion and textile industry produces millions of tons of waste at an alarmingly destructive rate every year. Rather than send your old underwear straight to the landfill, why not repurpose it? Transform your old underwear into dusting or cleaning rags and give them a whole new lease of life.

Shop high-quality underwear at Stripe & Stare

We're all guilty of holding onto that one pair of shapeless but comfortable briefs – the pair that we wouldn't be caught dead in but can't bring ourselves to throw away. However, if your underwear is sporting holes, tears, or stains, it has no place in your knicker drawer, and it's most definitely time to be out with the old and in with the new.

It would be best to replace your underwear every 6 to 12 months. Looking for ultra-comfortable underwear that is kind to the planet? Designed with TENCEL™, our briefs are soft, sustainable and long-lasting.