For many, the habit of wearing clothes once and washing them immediately is automatic. However, this is not always necessary and can even be harmful to the environment. Some of our clothes can be worn several times before being put in the washing machine. So, how often should you wash your clothes? Talc tells you everything!
Why space out washing our clothes?
Did you know? 90% of clothes are washed earlier than necessary!
Washing after use should not be systematic. On the one hand, because it has an impact on our planet, and on the other hand, because the garment deteriorates more quickly. A study carried out by the University of Northumbria (United Kingdom) reveals that wastewater releases an average of 13,000 tonnes of microfibres each year into European marine environments.
Washing clothes too often also results in significant water consumption. In fact, for a single wash, a machine requires approximately 40 to 80 liters of water and 1 kWh of electricity (which is equivalent to a full day of lights on).
Furthermore, if washing machines pollute, washing them too frequently can also damage our clothes. When they are damaged, we no longer want to wear them and they often end up in the trash. They then become a form of waste that is very polluting for the environment. Finally, this encourages us to buy new ones, and the cycle continues.
Reducing the frequency of washing and choosing clothes made with good quality materials appears essential for our planet .
How often should you wash your clothes?
In our opinion, this is how often you should wash your clothes without being unhygienic.
- Your jeans after wearing them 5 to 6 times
- Your underwear (panties, briefs, socks, tights) after having worn them only once
- Your bra after wearing it 4 to 6 times
- Your sports clothes after wearing them once, especially if it was an intensive session during which you sweated a lot.
- Your pajamas after wearing them 7 times
- Your cotton , cashmere or silk sweater after 2 or 3 uses
- Your wool and synthetic sweater can be washed after 5 uses
- Your t-shirt or tank top must be washed after 1 or 2 uses because they are in direct contact with the skin
- Your dress after wearing it 3 to 4 times
- Your jackets and coats, no more than once a year
In addition to your clothes, your sheets should ideally be washed twice a month and your bath linen every 3 or 4 days depending on use.
Of course, the frequency of washing can be adapted according to the weather, the way you move, your body (if you tend to sweat a lot for example) and your lifestyle. These recommendations simply give you a basis on which to rely when washing your clothes.
How to save water and energy when washing?
Most of the energy used when washing clothes in the washing machine is used to heat the water. Therefore, washing at a lower temperature, at 20°C or 30°C when possible, helps reduce energy costs. In addition, most detergents today are effective from 20°C. The "Eco" programs are also energy efficient and are often sufficient to clean your laundry. Also note that new machines are normally more water-efficient than old ones.
The return of hand washing: a solution?
Washing your clothes by hand whenever possible reduces electricity consumption and gently cleans fabrics so they don't get damaged. The amount of water used is also less with hand washing. Taking care of your clothes means doubling their lifespan and reducing your carbon footprint by 24%, which is not insignificant!
The benefits of clothing in TENCEL™
Washing your clothes better also means paying particular attention to their composition. Tencel™ clothing has many advantages in terms of hygiene, comfort and durability.
First of all, Tencel has anti-bacterial properties, which helps reduce odors. So, you won't need to machine wash them too often, as they will tend to stay cleaner for longer.
In addition, clothing in Tencel™ are known to be breathable and thermoregulating, which gives them the ability to effectively wick away moisture. This means they will be less affected by sweat!
Finally, this textile fiber can be washed cold, which saves water and energy, but also preserves the texture, colors and softness of the garment.
By choosing Talc clothing, we suggest you wash less, but better by choosing eco-responsible clothing made from Tencel™ . Don't hesitate to choose an eco-friendly detergent, or make it yourself to take care of your clothes and protect our planet!