How many sets of underwear you actually need

Short answer: Seven to ten sets let you wash once a week without running out. More than fourteen rarely get used and wear unevenly.

The maths behind the number

One set a day plus two spare for warm days makes nine. That covers one wash a week. See bamboo briefs.

Too many wear unevenly

With thirty sets, the top ten get used and the rest almost never. Rotate them or cut down. See bamboo underwear for women.

Replace gradually

Buy two new sets a year rather than ten every five years. That keeps the quality even. See bamboo boxers for men.

Frequently asked questions

How many pairs of boxers should a man own?

Seven to ten pairs for everyday use. That covers a weekly wash without trouble.

When should underwear be replaced?

When the elastic is slack, the fabric is thin or the colour has gone grey and dull.

Is it better to have many or few sets?

Few sets of good quality worn evenly. Very large quantities wear unevenly.