Washing less often and what it requires

Short answer: It takes enough of the innermost layer and somewhere to air the outer layer. Then the number of washes falls without anything becoming less clean. It is about washing what has been against the skin and airing the rest.

What must be washed every time

Underwear, socks and t-shirts that have been against the skin. These three cannot be aired, because sweat and skin oil sit in the fabric. There is no shortcut here, and this is not where to save. If you wash them after every wear, you can safely cut back on everything else. See also Bamboo Basics.

What can be aired

Sweatshirts, trousers, shirts and jackets you have not sweated in can often be worn several times. Hang them for a day with air around them, and they are ready again. The outer layer benefits, because it has not lain against the skin all day. See also bamboo sweatshirts for men.

How to air properly

Hang the garment in a room with fresh air, preferably by a window or a balcony door. Leave space around it so the air reaches both sides. A day is usually enough. Do not put it back in the wardrobe while it still feels damp or warm from the body.

What it takes

Seven sets of the innermost layer and a hook or a hanger to air on. With seven sets you can go a whole week without anything needing washing early. The hook or hanger need not be special, just a fixed place where the garment can hang freely. See also bamboo pants for women.

When airing is not enough

Airing does not help against stains, and it does not help if you have sweated heavily. If a garment has got food or drink on it, it should be washed so the stain does not set. The same goes if you have exercised in it. If it smells after a day, the answer is simple: wash it.

How often to wash the outer layer

That depends on what you have used it for. A day at a desk is different from a day of physical work or exercise. Go by smell and stains, not the calendar. A garment can easily be worn several times between washes, as long as it still feels fresh when you take it off the hanger.

Does the clothing get less clean

No, as long as you still wash what has been against the skin. The outer layer does not get dirty in the same way, and a day in fresh air does a lot. So you wash the parts that need it and skip those that do not. It is a simple rule to go by.

What you save

Fewer washes mean less electricity, less water and less wear on the fabric. Each wash takes a little of the garment's life, and every time you avoid one, you get a little more out of it. It is a small difference per wash, but it grows with the number of weeks you keep at it.

How to get started

Choose one outer-layer garment you usually wash after every wear. Hang it to air next time and see whether it still feels fresh a day later. If it works, you can do the same with more. Keep washing underwear and t-shirts every time, and you are on the safe side.

Frequently asked questions

Does the clothing get less clean?

No, as long as you still wash what has been against the skin. The outer layer gets aired and does not get dirty in the same way, so you wash the right parts.