9 Items You're Overwashing and 9 You're Probably Neglecting
Roughly 90% of the clothing we launder is not genuinely soiled, which results in a significant amount of needless washing. Many individuals clean garments that merely have faint smells or are simply creased, causing wasted water, energy, and detergent. This excessive consumption of resources not only raises household costs but also negatively affects the environment.
Meanwhile, while we concentrate on laundering certain items, we frequently neglect others that truly require cleaning. This oversight can allow dirt and odors to accumulate, ultimately demanding even more thorough washing. To make laundry practices more effective, it is crucial to carefully assess which items genuinely need washing and to arrange them for best results.
To address these concerns, we chose to examine how frequently the washing machine should be operated. By establishing a schedule based on actual clothing requirements, we can guarantee that only essential items are washed, helping to conserve resources and lessen our environmental footprint.
1. Jeans versus leggings
Laundering jeans too regularly can reduce their durability and diminish their color. Each wash can make denim lose its form, and warm conditions may result in shrinkage, causing jeans to fit differently than when originally bought.
To maintain your jeans in excellent condition, skip frequent washing. Chip Bergh, CEO of Levi's, has not machine-washed his jeans for more than ten years. He maintains that washing less protects both the color and structure of denim, while also conserving water and minimizing environmental harm. He suggests spot cleaning jeans when required, following the practices of early denim users who prized longevity. If machine washing is necessary, turn jeans inside out and use cold water only when genuinely soiled.
Leggings, however, demand a different strategy. As they are made to absorb moisture, leggings can harbor bacteria and smells. For daily wear, washing after two or three wears is typically sufficient. But after exercise, it is advisable to wash them each time to preserve freshness and cleanliness.
