How often do you really need to wash your jeans, jumpers, or even your socks? It is a question that has likely crossed your mind more than once.
But a recent conversation between two well-known Australian personalities has turned that quiet pondering into a full-blown debate.
The confession that sparked a debate
Popular podcast duo Hamish and Andy stirred things up after one half of the team, Andy Lee, shared a light-hearted confession.
In a clip that quickly spread on social media, Andy spoke about a moment with his partner, Rebecca Harding, who questioned him for wearing the same pants two days in a row.
‘Bec said to me this morning, “Didn’t you wear those pants yesterday? I said, Yes?”’ Andy recalled.
‘PANTS?!’ co-host Hamish Blake replied in mock horror, before declaring: ‘Pants are unlimited.’
From there, the pair created their own cheeky list of ‘re-wear rules’ for modern Australians.
According to them, T-shirts are good for a day and a half. Undies get one day, unless you sleep in them—then maybe one more.
Jumpers? All winter, unless they are stained. Socks? A day and a half, even for the gym.
What the experts really say
Before you update your own laundry routine, it might be worth checking what health and laundry experts think.
Expert team at OMO share their view on how often clothes really need a wash.
Shorts and pants? According to OMO, if they are not visibly dirty or used for physical activity, you can get multiple wears out of them—especially during cooler months.
Fresh air and spot cleaning can help prolong the time between washes.
T-shirts, however, are another story. Because they sit close to the skin and absorb sweat, they should be washed after every wear.
The same applies to activewear, even if it looks clean.
Undies and socks? No shortcuts here—one wear, one wash.
Re-wearing these can result in unpleasant smells, irritation, or fungal infections.
Bras, however, get a bit more flexibility. Two to three wears is acceptable, depending on activity levels and fabric care instructions.
And as for jumpers or outer layers worn over other clothes, five to seven wears is generally fine—unless there are visible marks or spills.
The great Australian laundry divide
Hamish and Andy’s fans had plenty to say. Some were shocked. ‘UNTIL SOILED?’ asked one commenter.
Another declared, ‘If the socks come off, they’re not going back on. One wear, that’s it.’
Some referred to public transport and exposure to public places: ‘If I’ve worn it on a train, it’s straight in the wash.’
It turns out, when it comes to washing clothes, everyone has their own logic—some strict, others a bit more relaxed.
Why it matters: Health and the environment
There is more to laundry habits than fresh smells and social norms. Re-wearing underwear or socks can lead to hygiene issues and skin irritation.
On the other hand, overwashing contributes to fading, fabric damage, and water waste. Striking the right balance is key.
Video Credit: @hamishandandy / TikTok
Airing out clothes, using gentle detergent, and checking labels can help you extend wear without compromising cleanliness or comfort.
Your say: What are your laundry rules?
Some Australians swear by the ‘once worn, once washed’ method. Others follow a more flexible approach, depending on how the clothing was used.
Where do you stand? Are you careful about re-wearing certain items, or do you push the limits to save on washing?
We invite you to share your routines, rules and revelations in the comments section below—your experience may just spark a new way of thinking about laundry.
Also read: Discover the $0 retro trick that will make your laundry smell amazing
