health
February 23, 2026
Do we really need to replace our underwear every six months?
Doctors say that washing doesn’t get rid of the bacteria, virus and fungal pathogens lurking in the material. It’s a horrifying thought given I’ve got pants dating back to 1995
TL;DR
- Doctors suggest replacing underwear every six to nine months.
- Washing underwear does not eliminate all bacteria, viruses, and fungal pathogens.
- Some sources indicate an average of 0.1g of feces can be found in adult underwear.
- The author admits to owning underwear much older than the recommended lifespan.
- Shopping for simple, plain cotton underwear proved to be a difficult and confusing experience.
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