Let’s be honest: everyone has a favorite pair of underwear, whether it's a brief or trunk, that they refuse to part with. Yet, between wear, hygiene, and comfort, there comes a time when we have to ask the question: how long should you keep your underwear before saying goodbye? Spoiler: there’s no expiration date printed on them. But between expert recommendations and common sense, a few guidelines can help make the decision. And most importantly, it’s better to understand how to choose and properly care for your underwear to maximize their longevity. So, let's take a look.
What’s the ideal lifespan of your underwear?
Expert opinions on hygiene and textiles
According to some specialists, renewing your underwear every 6 to 12 months would be a good habit. Other experts and microbiologists believe that as long as they are well-maintained, they can last indefinitely from a hygiene perspective. The truth? It depends on several factors: frequency of use, material, care… and your tolerance for worn-out elastic bands.
Well-maintained organic cotton underwear can last for years without losing comfort. BLUEBUCK underwear, for example, maintains its shape and support for several years, thanks to the quality of its manufacturing and materials.
On the other hand, those made of low-quality synthetic materials tend to lose their shape quickly and accumulate odors despite washing. This is why it's important to make smart choices when buying. Opting for natural and durable materials is key.
Hygiene vs. comfort: the real reason to replace them
Bacteria love warm and humid environments, so logically, your underwear isn’t spared. Luckily, a good wash (not just a quick rinse under the shower) is enough to avoid discomfort. However, if your brief starts slipping during the day or the elastic band becomes more of a decoration than a support, it’s time to move on.
To avoid irritation, infections, or simply the discomfort of worn-out fabric, it’s best not to wait until your underwear disintegrates on you.
Factors that influence their lifespan
Material and manufacturing: not all are the same
A well-made organic cotton trunk will last longer than a synthetic one bought on sale. BLUEBUCK underwear, for example, focuses on using resilient materials (organic cotton, recycled fibers) and careful construction. The result? Not only are they more eco-friendly, but they also last longer over time.
Natural fabrics like organic cotton and Tencel also have the advantage of resisting repeated washes better without deteriorating. Unlike synthetic materials, they maintain their softness and elasticity longer. Of course, after numerous washes, the colors may lose some intensity, as with any clothing, but this doesn’t affect their comfort or fit.
Frequency of use and number of pairs
If you rotate with only three trunks, they won’t last long… A set of ten to fifteen pairs in rotation helps prevent premature wear. Buying your underwear in packs can be a good option to ensure you have enough, while varying the colors and styles to suit your preferences.
And of course, the underwear you wear for sports or especially hot days wears out faster due to sweat and friction. A good rotation and proper washing can extend their lifespan without compromising hygiene.
Why do BLUEBUCK underwear last longer?
At BLUEBUCK, we don’t just offer eco-friendly underwear; we also focus on durability that far exceeds the average. Three key elements explain this long-lasting resistance:
- High-quality threads: The fabrics used are made from long organic cotton fibers, which are much more durable than the short fibers often used in the textile industry. The result? A fabric that retains its integrity longer, without fraying or losing softness.
- Above-average thickness: With a weight of around 200 g/m², BLUEBUCK underwear is designed to last. By comparison, many brands use thinner fabrics, which wear out more quickly after several washes. Here, durability is guaranteed.
- Ultra-durable elastic waistband: Unlike 100% synthetic waistbands that lose elasticity quickly, BLUEBUCK uses a waistband containing 60% cotton. Not only does this offer superior comfort, but it also ensures better resistance to repeated washes.
Signs it’s time to say goodbye
Visible signs of wear: the obvious ones
- A fabric that becomes thinner and almost transparent (unless you’ve always dreamed of a “fishnet” look)
- Loose elastic bands that turn support into freestyle
- Seams that come undone, holes that appear (and aren’t there for ventilation)
Invisible but annoying signs of wear
- Persistent odors, despite washing
- A feeling of less support, causing discomfort
- Unpleasant irritation or chafing
In short, if your underwear starts developing a personality of its own, it’s time to part ways with it.
Some tips to extend the life of your underwear
Washing and care: best practices
- Wash them at 30°C with a mild detergent to preserve the fibers
- Avoid tumble drying, which damages the elastic bands
- Let them air dry, ideally in the shade
Check out our underwear care guide for even more practical tips.
A little prevention to avoid them wearing out too quickly
- Choose durable models, like those from BLUEBUCK
- Avoid excessive rubbing (tight jeans…)
- Change them after sports to prevent moisture from damaging the fibers
For more tips, check out our article on how to prevent your underwear from getting holes.
Proper care allows you to save in the long term while limiting your ecological impact.
So, how long should you keep your underwear?
Some experts claim that you should renew your underwear every year for hygiene reasons. However, in reality, if your underwear is well-maintained, clean, and comfortable, there is no reason to throw them out systematically.
Instead of throwing them out after a year, it’s better to regularly check their condition. As long as the elasticity holds up and the fabric remains comfortable to wear, they can continue to serve you.
And if you really need to part with them, think about recycling! Some brands collect worn textiles to give them a second life.
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When asked “How long should you keep your underwear?”, our answer is “it depends.” But one thing is certain: they should be changed daily (or several times a day if you're alternating between sports and work).
As for their lifespan, it all comes down to quality and care. Opting for durable, well-designed underwear and taking care of them helps avoid having to replace them too often.
And because quality is at the heart of our commitments, BLUEBUCK guarantees its underwear for one year. If a manufacturing issue or quality defect is found within the first year, we commit to replacing them. A way to prove that durability and responsibility go hand in hand.
So, what about you? Are you team “I keep my trunks until they fall apart” or “I renew regularly”?