When a multipack pays off
Short answer: Multipacks are cheapest per piece, but only an advantage if you already know the model. If you are unsure about size or fit, buy a single piece first and go for the multipack once you know it sits right.
The price per piece
A pack of several identical pieces is almost always cheaper per piece than buying them singly. That is because packing and shipping are combined, and the maker can produce more of the same model at once. The total price is of course higher, so the saving is only real if you actually wear every piece in the pack.
Know the model first
If the model does not fit, you are left with several pieces you do not wear, and the saving is gone. This applies especially to underwear, where cut and elastic vary a lot between brands. So buy one piece, wear it for a week and wash it a few times before buying more. Read more about underpants in multipacks.
Identical keeps the drawer simple
With only one model in the drawer, everything matches, and you never have to hunt for the piece that fits. The whole stack can be replaced together when it is worn, rather than leaving a mix of old and new. That is one of the most practical benefits of a multipack, beyond the price. See bamboo underwear for men.
For socks
Socks are where a multipack makes the most sense, because they wear out fastest and are used every day. With many identical pairs, it also does not matter if a single sock goes missing in the wash, since the next one matches. Buy them in one colour so they never need pairing. See all bamboo socks for men.
For women
The same goes for women: first find the model and size that fit well, then buy several at once. Briefs suit multipacks well, while bras are usually best tried one at a time, because the fit is more personal. Choose neutral colours so they work under all clothes. See the matching items in bamboo underwear for women.
Wash them together from the start
If every piece from the pack is washed together from the first time, they fade evenly and look uniform. Mix new and old, and the difference in colour shows clearly after a few months. Wash at 40 degrees without fabric softener and let the clothes air dry, so the elastic lasts as long as possible in every piece.
See also
A multipack is not always the right answer. If you are buying something for the first time or want to try a new colour, a single piece may be the better choice. Think too about how fast you use the item: something you rarely wear does not need five of. More on the topic in multipack compared with buying singly.
At the change of season
The change of season is a natural time to go through the drawer and buy in one go. Sort out the pieces that have lost their shape or worn thin, and count how many are left. Then you know exactly how many you are missing and can buy a multipack of the model you already know. See bamboo clothing for men.
Frequently asked questions
Are multipacks always cheapest
Per piece, almost always. The total price is higher, though, so it only pays off if you wear every piece in the pack.
When should I skip them
When you do not know the model or size. Buy one piece first, and go for the multipack once you know the fit is right.
Which items suit them best
Socks and underpants, because they are worn daily and wear out fastest. Bras and more personal items are better tried one at a time.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
