When in the year to buy new underwear
Short answer: There is no fixed date for new underwear, but there are good moments. Many people go through the drawer in January and in August, because those are natural pauses in the year. The most important thing is to look for wear, elastic and fit rather than following the calendar blindly.
Signs your underwear is worn out
Underwear wears out faster than most other clothing, because it is washed often and sits close to the body. Typical signs are a loose waistband, thin patches in the fabric, bobbling and edges that roll up. If a pair of briefs slips down during the day, or a bra no longer gives support, it is time to replace it. The colour matters less than whether it still does its job. Go through the drawer honestly and set aside anything that has clearly had its day.
January as a good moment
January is a natural time, because many people are tidying up after Christmas anyway. The days are short and you spend a lot of time indoors, so it is easy to find half an hour for the drawer. Many people also receive underwear as a Christmas present and can clear out some of the old. Use the occasion to notice which styles you actually reach for again and again, and which ones stay at the back.
August as a good moment
After the summer, underwear has often had a hard time from sweat, sun cream, salt water and frequent washing. August is therefore a good moment to check the elastic and fabric again. At the same time many people switch to more fitted clothes, where edges and seams can show through trousers and dresses. A soft layer on top, such as bamboo hoodies for women, makes the move into autumn an easy one.
How many pairs you need
A rule of thumb is enough for ten to fourteen days, so you do not have to wash constantly and each pair gets a rest between wears. That spreads the wear and extends the life of each item. If you have fewer, they wear out faster. If you have many more, some just sit in the drawer unused. Think about types as well, because everyday wear, exercise and sleep can each have different needs.
Care that extends their life
Wash underwear at the temperature on the label, often 40 degrees for everyday items. Use a laundry bag for bras so wires and hooks do not catch on other things. Avoid fabric softener on stretchy fabrics, because it can weaken the elastic over time. Dry on a rack rather than in a tumble dryer. Viscose from bamboo is soft but can be a little more delicate when wet, so handle it gently while it dries.
Sleepwear belongs in the review
Sleepwear often gets as much use as underwear but is replaced less often. Look for the same signs: loose elastic, thin patches and buttons that hang by a thread. A women's Bamboo Pajama Shirt with buttons can last a long time if the buttons are sewn back on in good time. If you want to see everything in one place, there is also a page with bamboo clothing for women.
Frequently asked questions
How often should underwear be replaced
When the elastic is loose, the fabric thin or the fit no longer right. For many people that is every one or two years.
How many pairs of briefs should you own
Enough for ten to fourteen days is a good rule of thumb, so they rest between washes.
Can underwear go in the tumble dryer
It wears out the elastic. Drying on a rack makes it last longer.
See our range of Boody underwear.
