Can you air a hoodie instead of washing it
Short answer: Yes, often you can. A hoodie worn as an outer layer for a few hours is not necessarily dirty, and airing can remove smells and stretch the time between washes. Clothes worn next to the skin that have absorbed sweat do need washing, though.
Why airing works
Much of what we call odour in clothes comes from cooking, smoke or stale indoor air settling in the fibres. When a garment hangs freely in fresh air, a large part of that smell disappears by itself. A hoodie is usually worn over a T-shirt, so it is not in direct contact with the skin for most of the day. It therefore gets less dirty than the layer underneath it, which takes up most of the sweat.
How to air properly
Hang the hoodie on a hanger outdoors in the shade or by an open window. Turn it inside out if you can, so the air reaches the side that was closest to your body. A few hours is often enough, but a whole night outside helps more. Avoid long spells of strong sun on dark colours, because that can fade the fabric. Damp air works too, as long as the garment is dry again before you fold it.
When airing is not enough
If there are stains, or if the garment was worn for exercise and is soaked with sweat, it needs washing. Sweat contains salts and fats that do not disappear with airing, and over time they can cause yellow marks and a sour smell. The same applies to clothes that sit directly against the skin all day. See bamboo T-shirt for women for the kind of inner layer that should be washed more often.
An inner layer protects the outer one
A good habit is to wear a close fitting top or bodysuit under the hoodie. The inner layer then takes up sweat and skin oil, and the hoodie can be worn several times between washes. The inner layer is thin and small and easy to wash often. See bamboo bodysuit.
Underwear always needs washing
Airing is a good idea for outer layers such as hoodies, cardigans and jackets. Underwear is a different matter. It sits close to the skin for many hours and should be washed after every wear for the sake of hygiene. Bamboo viscose copes well with a wash at 30 or 40 degrees. See bamboo panties.
The benefits of fewer washes
Every wash wears the fabric a little. Colours fade, the surface can turn rough and elastic loses its spring. By airing outer layers rather than washing them every time, they last longer and keep their fit. You also save water, electricity and detergent. The point is to wash what is dirty and air what simply needs fresh air.
Frequently asked questions
How many times can you wear a hoodie before washing
It depends on use. As an outer layer without sweat, it can often be worn several times with airing in between.
Does frost remove smells from clothes
Cold, dry air can help with odour, but it does not make the clothes clean. Stains and sweat need a wash.
Can you air underwear instead of washing it
No. Underwear should be washed after every wear.
See our range of bamboo hoodie for men.
