The elastic that has gone
Short answer: A broken elastic in a waistband can be replaced, but on underwear and socks it is rarely worth it. If the elastic has gone in one place, the rest is usually worn as well.
Why it happens
Elastane is the stretchy fibre that pulls the waistband back together. It gradually loses its grip from heat, many washes and being stretched every day. Eventually single threads snap, and the waistband turns slack or wavy. Read more in why there is elastane in bamboo clothing.
Can it be repaired
In trousers with a channel in the waistband, the old elastic can be pulled out and replaced. All you need is a safety pin and elastic of the right width. In sewn underwear, where the elastic is stitched into the fabric, it cannot be changed without ruining the garment.
The whole pile
If the items were bought together and worn equally, the elastic wears out at the same time. When the first waistband gives, the others usually follow soon. Replace them together, so your drawer does not hold a mix of good and slack items that look alike.
Prevention
Avoid the tumble dryer. It is the most common reason elastic loses its grip early, because heat makes the fibres brittle. Wash at a moderate temperature and hang things to dry. Do not stretch the waistband more than needed when dressing. See the washing guide.
See the range
When buying new underwear, choose a size where the waistband sits well without being stretched hard. A waistband that is always under tension wears faster. See the styles in bamboo underwear for men, where you will find several fits.
For women
The same applies to underwear for women. Wide, soft waistbands spread the pressure and often last longer than narrow ones that pull tight. Measure yourself before ordering so you get the right size. See the matching styles in bamboo underwear for women.
See also
A broken elastic is often one of several signs that clothing is nearly worn out. Thin fabric, pilling and a faded colour often come with it. Read more about judging wear in how to tell that clothes are worn out.
What you can still use them for
If the elastic has gone in trousers without a channel, they can still be worn at home with a drawstring or a belt. Underwear with broken elastic should be replaced, as it no longer fits properly. For relaxed days at home, see bamboo loungewear for men.
Signs the elastic is going
Look for small puckers in the waistband, a wavy edge or threads poking out. If the waistband feels loose when you put it on, the elastane is giving up. Spot it early and you can buy new ones before the item becomes uncomfortable.
How long elastic lasts
How long elastic lasts depends mostly on washing and use. Items worn and washed often wear fastest. Rotate several items and dry them hanging, and the elastic lasts longer. Heat is the biggest enemy, whatever quality you have bought.
Frequently asked questions
Can elastic be replaced?
In trousers with a channel, yes. The old elastic is pulled out and a new one threaded in with a safety pin. In sewn underwear it cannot be done without ruining the garment.
Why does elastic break?
Because the elastane loses its grip from heat, many washes and daily stretching. The tumble dryer is the most common reason it happens early.
Should I replace all my underwear at once?
If it was bought together and worn equally, the elastic is usually worn at the same time. Replacing the whole pile at once is then the simplest option.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
