THE CLEAN TRUTH ABOUT HOW OFTEN YOU SHOULD REALLY WASH YOUR CLOTHES
By: Prachi Khatri
In the whirlwind of modern life where fashion and convenience are such an important part of culture, consumers often look at care labels to determine whether or not to make the commitment before purchasing a new garment. If the item has special care instructions or requires dry cleaning, there is less chance it will be going home.
Since most consumers are looking for easy care fashion, how often should clothes really be washed? While some people adhere to a strict schedule, others adopt a more flexible approach based on factors like lifestyle, climate, fabric type, and personal preference.
But what if the frequency of laundry can impact the longevity of your garments? Finding the right balance of how often to wash your clothes can not only save you time and money but also make a positive impact on the environment. So, let’s get into the dirty details of laundry—wear and tear and sustainable approaches.
Credit: Dan Gold / @danielcgold
Understanding these factors can help optimize the frequency of clothes washing, ensuring cleanliness without unnecessary wear and tear.
Every spin cycle puts your garments through the wringer, causing fading, stretching and even fabric damage as we subject them to mechanical stress and chemical exposure… but fear not as there’s simple solution: less is more. While washing is essential for maintaining hygiene and cleanliness, excessive laundering can accelerate wear and tear. By reducing the frequency of your washes, you can give your clothes much needed beak and extend their lifespan.
Pro tip: unless it is visibly soiled or smelly, your jeans and sweaters can probably go a few wears before hitting the laundry basket.
Did you know that the average washing machine guzzles about 41 gallons of water per load? Add in the energy needed to heat that water and power the dryer, and you've got yourself a carbon footprint that could rival Bigfoot's.
Adopt to sustainable laundry practices and the environment will thank us. By washing your clothes less frequently, washing full loads, opting for cold water, and air-drying whenever possible, you can slash your laundry's environmental impact faster than you can say "carbon neutral."
Additionally, the unsung hero of cleanliness, our detergents play a major role in environment impact. Traditional detergents may get the job done, but at what cost? Many contain harsh chemicals that not only wreak havoc on sensitive skin but also pollute our precious waterways. Enter eco-friendly alternatives, stage left. Made with natural ingredients and free from harmful additives, these green giants pack a powerful punch without the environmental hangover.
Credit: Daniel Koponya / @kopidanny
There are many brands that make eco-friendly laundry detergents such as Eco-max, the unscented company, seventh generation etc. Their detergents are biodegradable, non-toxic made with plant based ingredients. we have curated below a list of most affordable eco-detergents for you;
Tide Pure Clean
SVG Laundry Detergent
Mrs Myers Clean Day Liquid Detergent
So go ahead, make the switch—it's a clean conscience in every bottle.
Beyond laundry habits and detergent choices, adopting a sustainable approach to clothing care involves extending the lifespan of our garments. It's no secret that the fashion industry has a dirty little secret: it's one of the biggest polluters on the planet. But there's hope on the horizon.
Embracing a more mindful approach to clothing care—think proper storage, gentle washing and timely repairs; we can not only reduce our environmental footprints but also save money in the long run. And when it's finally time to bid adieu to that beloved sweater or pair of jeans, consider giving them a second chance at life through donation or upcycling. After all, one person's trash is another person's treasure.
Finally, the age old question of how often to wash your clothes is more than a matter of hygiene -it’s a call to action. By reevaluating our laundry habits, choosing eco-friendly detergents, and embracing sustainable approaches to clothing care, we can make a real difference in the world around us. So toss that laundry basket to the wind and join the revolution—it's time to clean up our act, one load at a time.
Cover Photo Credit: Averie Woodard / @averieclaire