When not to Wash Clothes
Many people have the misconception that clothes should be washed after every wear or on a regular basis. This, however, is not always the case! Washing clothes too often can be detrimental to your clothing, leading to their premature wear and tear. Here are some common scenarios when you should not wash your clothes:
Clothes that you haven’t worn
If you have worn clothes once and haven’t worn them since, it is better to leave them until you need to wear them again. Washing clothes you haven’t worn can cause them to shrink and fade. Unless you notice that the clothes have a bad odour, there is no need to wash them immediately.
Clothes with Design or Prints
Clothes with delicate designs or prints should not be washed too often. A lot of dye can leach from the cloth and degrade the fabric, so be sure to weigh the pros and cons before your wash. Spot cleaning with a damp cloth is a good alternative for these types of clothes.
Delicate garments
Delicate garments usually require special care, as they may get ruined in regular washing cycles. To avoid damaging your delicate clothes, you should handwash them and hang them to dry. For coloured garments in particular, you should use a gentle detergent and avoid washing them in hot water.
Clothes you plan to give away
If you plan on giving away clothes that you haven’t worn yourself, it’s best to avoid washing them before you give them away. Washing them might not be necessary, and it could even cause unwanted damage.
Keeping Clothes Fresh
Although washing your clothes can extend their life, it is important to know when not to wash clothes. Taking good care of your clothes can ensure that they stay in good condition for longer. In some cases, you can spot clean and hang them to dry, or use a fabric freshener.
By following the guidelines above, you can keep your clothes looking fresh, without washing them too often.