9 Things That We Wash Too Often, and 9 More That We Usually Forget About

Approximately 90% of the clothes we wash are not truly dirty, which leads to a great deal of unnecessary laundry. Many people wash garments that only have slight odors or are simply wrinkled, resulting in wasted water, energy, and detergent. This excessive use of resources not only increases household expenses but also has a negative impact on the environment. At the same time, while we focus on washing certain items, we often overlook others that genuinely need cleaning. This neglect can cause dirt and odors to build up, eventually requiring even more intensive washing. To make laundry routines more efficient, it is important to carefully evaluate which items actually need washing and to organize them for optimal cleaning. To tackle these issues, we decided to study how often the washing machine should be used. By creating a schedule based on real clothing needs, we can ensure that only necessary items are washed, helping to save resources and reduce our environmental impact.

1. Jeans versus leggings

Jeans vs. Leggings: Washing Habits and Care Washing jeans too often can shorten their lifespan and fade their color. Each wash can cause denim to lose its shape, and warm weather may lead to shrinkage, making jeans fit differently than when first purchased. To keep your jeans in good condition, avoid frequent washing. Chip Bergh, CEO of Levi’s, has not machine-washed his jeans for over ten years. He believes that washing less preserves both the color and structure of denim, while also saving water and reducing environmental impact. He recommends spot cleaning jeans when necessary, following the habits of early denim wearers who valued durability. If machine washing is needed, turn jeans inside out and use cold water only when truly dirty. Leggings, however, need a different approach. As they are designed to absorb moisture, leggings can develop bacteria and odors. For everyday wear, washing after two or three uses is usually enough. But after workouts, it is best to wash them each time to maintain freshness and hygiene.