Let’s face it—underwear isn’t exactly the most glamorous item in your wardrobe, but it’s one of the most important. It’s something you wear every single day, yet it’s easy to forget how much it affects your hygiene, comfort, and even your confidence. And while no one really wants to think about it, the truth is: your underwear has an expiration date.
So, how do you know when it’s time to say goodbye to your favorite pair and bring in some fresh replacements? Let’s break it down.
Why Replacing Underwear Matters
Wearing the same underwear for years on end (even if it still looks okay) isn’t doing your body any favors. Over time, underwear loses elasticity, builds up bacteria—even with regular washing—and stops giving you the comfort and support you need. Just like anything else that gets worn and washed constantly, it starts to wear out.
Replacing your underwear regularly is about more than just avoiding holes—it’s about taking care of your hygiene and keeping yourself feeling fresh and comfortable day after day.
So, How Often Should You Replace Your Underwear?
A good rule of thumb? Replace your underwear every 6 to 12 months, depending on how often you wear it, the material, and how well you take care of it. Higher-quality pairs might last a bit longer, but if you’re wearing the same few in heavy rotation, they’ll wear out faster.
One of the main reasons for replacing underwear is hygiene. Even with regular washing, fabric can accumulate bacteria and fungi over time. Sweat, body oils, and other residues can remain trapped in the fibers even after multiple washes. As a result, delaying underwear replacement can lead to skin irritation and other unwanted conditions. It’s important to monitor not just the physical condition but also the hygiene aspect.
Signs It’s Time for a Fresh Pair
You don’t need a calendar reminder to tell you when to replace your underwear. Usually, your underwear will give you a few not-so-subtle hints. Here are key signs indicating it’s time to buy new underwear:
- Loose waistband or stretched-out fit – If it’s not staying in place, it’s time to move on.
- Holes or thinning fabric – Even tiny rips mean the fabric’s breaking down.
- Faded color – A clear sign your underwear has been through a lot.
- Persistent odor – If smells linger even after washing, bacteria could be sticking around.
- Itchiness or irritation – Your skin may be reacting to fabric that’s past its prime.
What Happens If You Keep Wearing Old Underwear?
Old, worn-out underwear can actually cause more harm than you think. It becomes a breeding ground for bacteria and yeast, especially when exposed to heat, sweat, and body oils. This can lead to itching, rashes, or even infections.
And when underwear starts losing its shape, it can chafe or ride up, leaving you adjusting it all day. For men, lack of proper support can cause discomfort during movement. For women, worn elastic or thin fabric can result in constant shifting and poor coverage.
Long story short: uncomfortable underwear = a miserable day.
How to Make Your Underwear Last Longer
While replacing your underwear regularly is important, there are ways to help it last longer:
- Use gentle detergent – Harsh chemicals can break down fabric and elastic.
- Wash with cold or lukewarm water – Hot water weakens fibers and fades color faster.
- Skip the fabric softener – It can coat the fabric and trap moisture, which isn’t great for sensitive areas.
- Air-dry when possible – High heat from dryers damages elastic and wears out fabric more quickly.
- Rotate your collection – The fewer times a pair gets worn each week, the longer it lasts.
Even with the best care, though, nothing lasts forever. Eventually, every pair reaches its limit.
Don’t Ignore the Basics
Underwear might not be something you talk about often, but it deserves a spot on your self-care checklist. Swapping out your old pairs for new ones every 6 to 12 months is a small but meaningful habit that can improve your hygiene, comfort, and confidence.
So the next time you’re doing laundry and notice a stretched-out waistband or a faded pair that’s been through a few too many washes—it’s probably time to treat yourself to some new underwear. Trust us, your body will thank you.