It may sound like the most basic hygiene rule, but changing underwear every day is a habit many people are quietly skipping. Now, experts warn that dirty underwear isn’t just unpleasant — what lingers can pose real health risks, making daily changes a non-negotiable practice.
As unsettling as it sounds, a 2021 study found that a typical pair of underwear contains about 0.1 grams of fecal residue. With that in mind, going more than a day without switching to a clean pair isn’t just unhygienic — it could have real health consequences, according to medical experts.
Dirty drawers
Despite clear hygiene guidelines, many young adults aren’t changing their underwear daily. A 2023 Newsweek poll found that 36% of Gen Z respondents — those aged 18 to 24 — admitted to wearing the same pair of underwear for over 24 hours, with another 14% saying they do this regularly. That means half of Gen Z reported going at least a full day or more in the same underwear.
But the habit isn’t limited to younger people. The survey also found that 24% of millennials — aged 25 to 34 — regularly wear the same pair more than once.
In contrast, older adults reported much better hygiene habits. Among those aged 55 to 64, 67% said they never wear underwear for more than one day, while only 3% admitted to repeating pairs.
Skin irritation or infection
Doctors say this growing trend is more than just a hygiene issue. Bacteria, yeast, and moisture can build up in tight clothing, creating the perfect environment for skin irritation and possible infections — especially in areas with limited airflow.
“Men and women risk skin irritation, rashes, or worsening of conditions like eczema or psoriasis when they re-wear underwear too often without washing it, due to friction and trapped moisture,” said Sarah Roberts in an interview with the Daily Mail.
‘Harbor moisture and bacteria’
Roberts warned that wearing underwear for too long can lead to infections such as yeast overgrowth and bacterial vaginosis.
Yeast infections can cause itching, burning, and thick white discharge when candida fungus multiplies. Bacterial vaginosis, often confused with yeast infections, usually involves a fishy odor and gray or yellow discharge caused by a bacterial imbalance.
“The vulva contains folds and crevices that trap moisture and bacteria more easily than male genitalia,” explained Dr. Archit Aggarwal.
Jock itch
It’s not only women who face these risks — men are also vulnerable, especially to jock itch, a fungal infection that causes an itchy red rash in the groin, buttocks, and upper thighs.
Even looser garments like boxers don’t eliminate the risk if they aren’t changed regularly.
“Men’s boxers, although they may touch the skin less than women’s underwear, are not immune to these issues — especially when worn repeatedly without being changed,” Roberts added.
Change at least once a day
While some people may wear the same pair for a second day in certain situations, doctors strongly recommend changing underwear at least once every 24 hours to reduce the risk of irritation and infection. This becomes even more important during activities that cause heavy sweating.
“For those involved in intense physical activity or who sweat a lot, it’s best to change underwear more frequently,” said Dr. Hannah Kopelman of Kopelman Aesthetic in New Jersey. “In hot and humid climates, changing underwear more than once a day may be necessary to maintain proper hygiene.”
Dr. Aggarwal also emphasized the importance of noticing early warning signs. “If you experience discomfort, itching, or unusual discharge, change your underwear immediately and consult a healthcare professional if needed,” he told the Daily Mail.
How often do you change your underwear? Let us know your hygiene habits — and share this story to hear what others have to say!
