Laundry is a basic cleaning chore. However, the frequency of laundry tasks varies for different items. Here is a list of items that you should wash weekly, rather than daily.
If not washed weekly, these items can not only develop an unpleasant odor but also harbor bacteria, leading to skin irritation or infections. All that built-up grime can also take a toll on your fabrics. As Kim Romine, a fabric care scientist at P&G, states, “Washing fabrics regularly prolongs their lifespan by preventing the buildup of dirt and odors.”
Items to Wash Weekly
Bath Towels
Since towels are used to dry off after a shower, you might think they can be used for a while before washing. However, Romine recommends washing them at least once a week. “Towels are used to dry off our bodies, and they can quickly accumulate excess oil, dead skin cells, and other grime. They should be washed after two to three uses,” she explains.
There’s another potential issue with towels, especially if they’re left in a pile on the floor instead of being hung to dry. Towels tend to stay damp and can become a breeding ground for bacteria and mold.
Pet Beds
Pets shed hair and skin cells all over their beds, and leaving this buildup untouched until you notice a funky smell can lead to allergies or even skin infections for your furry friend (or any sensitive individuals in your household)!
Bed Sheets and Pillowcases
While you may be able to stretch this to once every two weeks, laundry experts agree that you should change your bed sheets at least once a week during the summer or if you tend to sweat at night.
These items come into direct contact with our bodies and collect oil, skin cells, bacteria, and moisture. “Bed sheets and pillowcases gather sweat and oil from our skin and hair overnight,” Romine adds.
Of course, if you have a particularly sweaty night during the hot summer months, you should wash your pillowcases immediately.
Blankets
Whether it’s a guest room comforter or the blanket you use instead of a bedspread, weekly washing is essential. Crumbs, body oils, pet hair, and other grime can accumulate. You may be able to stretch the time between washes if the sofa blanket usually stays folded on the armrest, but otherwise, a weekly wash is recommended.
Bath Mats
Although it may seem like bath mats are rarely used, they tend to get damp. This creates an ideal environment for mold and bacteria to thrive, making weekly washing essential to prevent bacterial growth.
Everyday Clothes
While underwear and workout gear should be washed after each wear, some garments can be worn a few times before needing a wash. Shirts and blouses can typically be worn once or twice before washing, and pants can usually go for two to three wears unless they get visibly soiled.
Bras
Bras should be washed after two to three wears, which means they may need to be washed weekly, depending on how often you wear them.
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