How Often Should You Replace Your Underwear?

The general guidance is to replace underwear roughly once a year, or sooner once it shows wear — stretched-out waistbands, thinning fabric, persistent staining, or a loss of shape. Underwear gets a lot of wear and frequent washing, so even good pieces gradually break down. When the elastic stops holding or the fabric feels worn through, it's time.

There's no exact rule, since how often you wear and wash each pair varies, but "it's lost its stretch and structure" is the practical signal. Buying quality, breathable basics and rotating enough pairs so each gets a rest between wears helps them last. When you do replace them, it's a natural moment to choose breathable, natural-fiber-forward fabric for the layer closest to your skin. More in what fabrics touch your skin.

Try BHG everyday basics.