Everything you put on and take off starts with your underwear. It’s in constant contact with your most sensitive skin—yet so many women never think twice about how to care for it properly.

At Net Positive, we believe every layer matters—and that includes giving your undies the attention they deserve. From how often to change your underwear to how to wash them the right way and when it’s really time to toss them, this guide will help you build healthy habits that protect your body, your confidence, and the planet.

Why Underwear Hygiene Really Matters

Let’s get real: your underwear does the heavy lifting for your daily comfort, health, and self-care. Poor underwear hygiene doesn’t just affect your laundry basket—it can lead to skin irritation, infections, unwanted odors, and even throw off your natural balance.

Add in cheap, synthetic fabrics treated with harsh dyes, and it’s no surprise many women struggle with discomfort down there. That’s why choosing breathable, toxin-free, skin-safe underwear—and caring for it properly—makes all the difference.

How Often Should You Change Your Underwear?

Short answer: Daily. Always.

Clean underwear is non-negotiable for good intimate hygiene. Wearing the same pair for too long can trap sweat, bacteria, and yeast—creating the perfect environment for irritation or infections.

Rule of thumb:

• Change your underwear every 24 hours — more often if you sweat a lot, work out, or have vaginal discharge.

• Always wear a fresh pair after swimming, exercising, or if you get unexpectedly wet.

The Best Fabrics for Healthy Underwear

Not all undies are created equal — and fabric choice is everything when it comes to keeping things fresh.

What to Look For

• Breathable natural fibers: Organic cotton, bamboo, or eco-friendly modal. These fabrics wick away moisture and allow airflow — which helps prevent bacterial growth.

• No harsh chemicals: Toxin-free dyes and gentle finishes are key for sensitive skin.

• Soft seams and smooth design: Less chafing = happier skin.

What to Avoid

• Synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon: These trap heat and sweat against your skin.

• Heavy elastics or tight fits: They can irritate delicate skin and cause ingrown hairs.

• Cheap dyes or chemical finishes: These can trigger allergic reactions or rashes.

At Net Positive, every pair of our underwear is crafted from breathable, plant-based fabrics—always free of toxins and harsh chemicals. Because your most delicate skin deserves better.

How to Wash Underwear Properly

Washing your underwear the right way keeps them clean and extends their life.

Step-by-Step Underwear Washing Tips

1. Wash after every wear. Never re-wear undies — fresh pair, fresh start.
2. Use cold or warm water. Hot water can weaken elastic and fade colors, but warm water is good for killing bacteria. If you’re hand-washing delicate items, cold is best.
3. Mild, fragrance-free detergent. Harsh detergents can irritate sensitive skin. Choose a gentle option.
4. Skip the fabric softener. It leaves residue that can irritate your skin and degrade the fabric’s breathability.
5. Use a mesh laundry bag. It protects your underwear in the machine.
6. Air dry when possible. Heat from dryers can break down elastic and shrink natural fibers.

Should You Hand-Wash or Machine-Wash?

Both work—but hand-washing is gentler for delicate fabrics and lace.

• Machine wash: Use a gentle cycle, mild detergent, and cold water.

• Hand wash: Soak in lukewarm water with gentle detergent for 15 minutes, gently rub, rinse well, and squeeze (don’t wring) excess water.

Pro tip: Always wash your undies separately from heavy garments like jeans or towels to avoid damage.

How Often Should You Replace Your Underwear?

Even the best underwear won’t last forever. But when should you say goodbye?

Look for these signs:

• Stretched-out elastic that won’t stay in place.

• Holes, thinning fabric, or stubborn stains.

• Lingering odors that don’t wash out.

• Discomfort or irritation you didn’t have before.

General rule: Replace everyday undies every 6–12 months, depending on how often you wear and wash them. High-quality, well-made underwear — like ours — often lasts longer when properly cared for.

How Many Pairs Should You Own?

Experts say owning 10–15 pairs of good underwear gives you enough to rotate between washes — keeping your laundry routine stress-free and your hygiene on point.

Tip: Build a capsule of timeless, comfy pairs you truly love wearing. It saves money and clutter.

Should You Wear Underwear to Bed?

This one’s personal — but many gynecologists recommend going commando at night to let your skin breathe. If you prefer wearing underwear while you sleep, choose a loose, breathable cotton or modal pair — no tight elastics.

Period Underwear: Cleanliness Counts

Reusable period underwear is a sustainable switch many love — but hygiene is extra important here.

• Rinse them in cold water right after use.

• Wash them thoroughly with mild detergent.

• Air dry completely before storing.

Underwear Storage: Yes, It Matters

Keep your panties in a dry, clean drawer. Stay away from damp areas where mould or bacteria can grow. And sure enough, your "I might wear that again" pile has no place in your laundry basket. 😉

Sustainable Care Tips for Healthy Underwear

Caring for your undies is caring for the planet, too:

• Cold washing cuts energy use.

• Line drying reduces emissions

• (and keeps elastic happy).

• Choosing durable, toxin-free fabrics means less landfill waste over time.

At Net Positive, our entire collection is designed with sustainability at its core—so every wash cycle has a lighter footprint. Despite its small size, your undies has a lot of power. By choosing toxin-free, well-made pieces and caring for them properly, you’re saying yes to your health and yes to a cleaner future.