Students on a Budget – Quality vs. Price in Basics

Short answer: On a tight budget it is tempting to buy the cheapest underwear and the cheapest T-shirts. But affordable quality clothing is about price per wear, not price per purchase: bamboo basics keep their shape and softness through far more washes and therefore need replacing less often.

Do the maths in price per wear

A T-shirt that loses its shape after one season is expensive, whatever it cost. If it lasts for years, on the other hand, every wear becomes cheap. The whole calculation is laid out in the guide to bamboo and economy.

Start where it makes the biggest difference

Upgrade what you use every day: bamboo underwear for men or bamboo underwear for women and a couple of good bamboo T-shirts. The rest of the wardrobe can easily wait.

Fewer pieces, more use

Because bamboo smells less, a T-shirt can often be worn for two days, and you can manage with fewer pieces in total. That also means fewer washes, which saves both time and money at the laundrette. Treat your clothes right with the advice in our washing guide, and they will last even longer.

Frequently asked questions

Is it worth buying more expensive basics as a student?

Yes, if they last several times longer. Measured in price per wear, durable basics are often the cheapest choice.

Where should I start if the budget is small?

Start with underwear and T-shirts, which you use and wash the most, and upgrade the rest along the way.

How do I make my clothes last as long as possible?

Wash at 30 degrees, skip the tumble dryer and only wash when it is necessary. Bamboo smells less and can often be worn several days.