Thermals are a great way to stay warm in cold weather, but it's important to keep them clean in order to maintain their effectiveness. Here's what you need to know about how often to wash different types of thermals, as well as some tips for proper care.
Frequency of Washing
The frequency with which you should wash your thermals depends on a few factors, including the type of fabric they're made of and how often you wear them.
Polyester thermals: These are made of a synthetic fabric that is moisture-wicking, meaning it helps to keep sweat and moisture away from your skin. This can make them more resistant to odors, so you may be able to wear them for a longer period of time before needing to wash them. However, it's still important to wash them regularly to keep them fresh and prevent any lingering odors from developing. In general, it's a good idea to wash polyester thermals after every 3-4 wears.
Cotton-polyester mix thermals: These are made of a blend of natural and synthetic fibers, and they offer a balance of moisture-wicking and breathability. Like polyester thermals, they may be able to go longer between washes, but it's still important to wash them regularly to maintain their effectiveness and keep them fresh. A good rule of thumb is to wash cotton-polyester mix thermals after every 2-3 wears.
It's worth noting that the frequency with which you should wash your thermals can also depend on how active you are while wearing them. If you're sweating heavily or participating in activities that cause you to get dirty, you'll likely want to wash your thermals more frequently. On the other hand, if you're just wearing them for everyday activities and aren't getting particularly sweaty or dirty, you may be able to go longer between washes.
Proper Care
To maintain the effectiveness of your thermals, it's also important to wash them properly. Here are some tips to follow:
Detergent: Choose a detergent that is specifically designed for synthetic or technical fabrics, as these types of detergents are less likely to cause fading or pilling. Avoid using detergents that contain bleach or other harsh chemicals, as these can damage the fibers of your thermals and cause them to lose their effectiveness.
Water temperature: Avoid using hot water to wash your thermals, as this can cause the fibers to break down and shorten the lifespan of your thermals. Instead, use cold or warm water.
Drying: Avoid drying your thermals on high heat, as this can cause shrinkage and damage to the fibers. Instead, tumble dry on a low setting or hang them to dry. If you're hanging them to dry, be sure to shake them out and smooth out any wrinkles before hanging them, as this will help to prevent any unnecessary creasing.
Other care tips: To maintain the effectiveness and lifespan of your thermals, it's also a good idea to avoid using fabric softeners and dryer sheets, as these can leave a residue on the fibers that can affect the moisture-wicking properties of your thermals. Additionally, avoid ironing your thermals, as the high heat can damage the fibers.
By following these recommendations, you can help to ensure that your thermals stay clean, fresh, and effective for as long as possible.
