From cheeky shorts to briefs, a woman’s underwear plays a vital role in her daily life. It’s what keeps her comfortable and lets her be expressive when it’s time to get intimate. However, studies show that many women are holding onto their underwear for far longer than ideal. Wear and tear aren’t the only signs it’s time to upgrade the pantie drawer. 

Besides aesthetics, there are several hygienic reasons why it’s crucial to stay on top of getting new underwear. Synthetic fabrics don’t air out naturally. They can trap moisture, increasing the chance of developing bacteria. Here’s what to know about keeping up with your pantie rotation.

How Often Should You Replace Your Underwear?

Women who struggle with reoccurring yeast infections know that even the slightest trigger can send them into chaos. While washing your undies in hot water should be preventative enough, bacteria can always find a way. In fact, a 2001 study published in the Journal of Infection suggests there might be about one-tenth of a gram of fecal matter on the average pair of “clean” underwear.

According to experts, it’s recommended to replace them at least every six to 12 months. While it’s ultimately a personal decision, you should ideally not be waiting until they have holes to get new ones. If you want to prolong the life of the panties and you’re not keen on parting ways with, then try washing them in a lingerie bag on a delicate setting. For more intricate style panties, you can wash them by hand with room temperature water and a soft detergent.

Replacing your underwear every six months to a year can be an expensive cadence. If you want to earn yourself some more time, then investing in higher-quality underwear can extend the left of your underwear. Avoid buying synthetic fabrics, like polyester and spandex, and opt for breathable cotton or bamboo instead. It is not only better for your hormonal health, but also last the test of time.