Airing clothes instead of washing them for the first time
Short answer: A lot of clothing gets washed before it is really dirty. Airing it instead saves time, water and electricity and is gentler on the fabric, so your clothes last longer.
Why air instead of wash
Every wash wears the fibres a little. Colours fade, elastic loses its spring and the surface can bobble. Clothes worn for just one day with no stains or smell often only need fresh air. That applies especially to trousers, knitwear, dresses and tops that do not sit directly against the skin for many hours. Underwear, socks and sportswear, however, should always be washed after wearing.
What is suitable for airing
Trousers, skirts, jackets, knitwear and jumpers worn over a T-shirt are good candidates. Take a look at bamboo trousers for women as an example of trousers that can be worn several times between washes. Viscose and wool respond well to airing, because the fibres can release moisture and odour when they hang freely. Heavily soiled clothes or clothes with stains need washing.
How to air clothes properly
Hang the garment on a hanger, ideally outside in the shade or by an open window. Leave space around it so the air can reach it. An hour or two is often enough, but a whole night by an open window works well too. Avoid direct sun on dark colours, as it can fade them. In damp weather you can air clothes indoors in a well ventilated room, but not in a small bathroom.
Steam and brushing
Creases can often be removed by hanging the garment in the bathroom while you shower, or with a clothes steamer. Steam also freshens up the fabric. A clothes brush removes dust and hair from knitwear and trousers. Lint can be picked up with a lint roller. Stains should be treated straight away with a little cold water before they set, rather than putting the whole garment in the machine.
Find your own rhythm
How often something needs washing depends on how long and how it is worn, and how much you sweat. As a rule of thumb, trousers and knitwear can be worn three to five times between washes if they are aired. Use your judgement and smell the garment. If it is fresh, it can be worn again. Browse bamboo clothing for women for pieces that suit this rhythm well.
The benefits over time
Fewer washes mean clothes keep their shape and colour for longer, and you use less water, electricity and detergent. It is a small habit that makes a noticeable difference over a year. The brand Decoy is one example of a label with soft basics, and the care label tells you how the piece should be washed when the time comes.
Frequently asked questions
Which clothes should I not just air
Underwear, socks and sportswear need washing after wearing.
How long should clothes be aired
An hour or two is often enough. A night by an open window works too.
How many times can trousers be worn between washes
Often three to five times, if they are aired and have no stains.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
