When it comes to laundry, few items need as much care and attention as your underwear. Because these pieces sit closest to your skin, keeping them clean isn’t just about freshness—it’s about hygiene and comfort too. Yet, many people still make common mistakes when washing their underwear that can cause damage or even lead to skin irritation.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the right way to wash your underwear—whether by hand or in the machine—and share tips to keep your delicates looking and feeling their best.
How Often Should You Wash Your Underwear?
Let’s get one thing straight: underwear should be washed after every wear. Even if it doesn’t look dirty, bacteria, sweat, and oils build up quickly, especially in warm or humid climates. Regular washing helps prevent odor, infections, and fabric wear.
Dermatologists and health experts, including those at Healthline recommend changing and washing underwear daily to maintain proper hygiene and skin health.
How to Wash Underwear: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Hand Wash for Delicates
If you own lace, silk, or delicate fabrics, hand washing is the safest method.
- Fill a basin with lukewarm water and add a mild detergent.
- Soak your underwear for about 10–15 minutes.
- Gently rub the fabric together—never twist or wring it.
- Rinse thoroughly and press out excess water using a towel.
- Air-dry flat or hang in a shaded area.
2. Machine Wash for Everyday Cotton
Cotton underwear can handle a regular wash cycle, but a few rules help keep them fresh longer:
- Use a mesh laundry bag to protect shape and elastic bands.
- Choose a gentle or delicate cycle.
- Use cold or warm water—hot water can weaken elastic over time.
- Skip the fabric softener (it can leave residue and affect breathability).
- Always air-dry—heat from the dryer can damage elastic and reduce comfort.
For more on protecting delicate fabrics, see our guide on Cold vs Hot Water Laundry and Decoding Laundry Symbols.
Extra Tips for Hygiene and Fabric Care
- Separate underwear from heavy items like jeans or towels to prevent friction.
- Avoid harsh bleach unless dealing with white cotton; opt for oxygen-based bleach for a gentler clean.
- Sanitize regularly. If you’re concerned about bacteria, consider adding a small amount of white vinegar or a laundry sanitizer to the rinse cycle.
- Replace old underwear every 6–12 months depending on wear. Elastic and fabric eventually lose integrity, no matter how well you wash them.
How Clean Avenue Can Help
At Clean Avenue, we understand that delicates like underwear deserve extra attention. Our Wash & Fold Service ensures every item is washed in fresh, sanitized loads—never mixed with other customers’ clothes. Whether it’s your everyday cotton pieces or luxury lingerie, we treat your laundry with care and precision.
Let us take care of your laundry, so you can focus on what matters most.
👉 Schedule your next pickup and delivery with Clean Avenue today!
Final Thoughts
Washing your underwear the right way helps extend its lifespan, keeps you comfortable, and ensures proper hygiene. Whether you prefer hand washing or rely on professional laundry services like Clean Avenue, a few simple habits can make a huge difference.
Your clothes—and your skin—will thank you.
🧺 Laundry made easy.
Skip the stress of laundry day — Clean Avenue Laundry picks up, cleans, folds, and delivers your clothes right to your door anywhere in NYC.