Underwear is the most-worn clothing category and the most-mistreated. Cumulative replacement costs are bigger than most realise — and avoidable with simple care.
What kills underwear fast
Hot wash and tumble dry (kills elastic). Front-loading washes with everything else (friction tears). Fabric softener (weakens elastic). Wringing wet to dry (stretches fibres).
The simple care upgrade
Cold wash (30°C), in mesh laundry bag. Non-bio detergent. Air dry flat or over radiator. Bras: rotate 3-4 to give each a rest day. Replace bras when the band gives out, not when cups wear.
Underwear lifespan often doubles with these basics. £30-60/year saved without buying anything new.