It is one of those quiet questions people ask themselves and rarely say out loud. How often should underwear really be changed, and is once a day always the rule. Most people assume daily is the minimum, but doctors say it is not always that simple.
Medical professionals explain that how long underwear can be worn depends on several things. The type of underwear matters, what is going on in that area of the body matters, and sweating plays a big role. All of those factors change the answer more than most people realize.
Looser styles like boxer shorts can sometimes be worn a little longer. A dermatologist told the Daily Mail: “In situations with minimal activity and no sweating, changing [underwear] every other day may be acceptable. Men’s looser-fitting styles, like boxers, may also allow for slightly longer wear.”
That does not mean most people actually do that. A poll from June 2023 found that nearly half of respondents said they would never wear the same pair of underwear more than one day. The idea still feels uncomfortable to many, even with medical caveats.
Wearing underwear too long can raise the risk of skin issues. A licensed skincare specialist explained that rewearing underwear can lead to irritation, rashes, or flare-ups of conditions like eczema or psoriasis. Friction and trapped moisture are usually the cause.
And loose underwear does not make someone immune. The specialist added: “Men’s boxers, although touching the skin less frequently than women’s underwear, do not escape these hazards – particularly when worn repeatedly without change.” So fit helps, but it is not a free pass.
For women, the risks can be different and sometimes more serious. Repeated wear can increase the chances of yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis. Doctors say this is especially important to keep in mind with tighter-fitting underwear.
Certain situations call for more frequent changes. Heavy menstruation or significant vaginal discharge may mean changing underwear more than once a day. A dermatologist said this is often overlooked but important.
Exercise also changes the equation. Sweat, heat, and friction build up quickly during workouts, especially intense ones. A dermatologist said: “For those engaged in intense physical activities or who sweat heavily, it’s advisable to change underwear more frequently.”
Climate matters too. Living in a hot or humid area can cause moisture to linger all day. The same doctor added: “In hot and humid climates, changing underwear even more than once a day might be necessary to maintain good hygiene.”
