Underpants, panties, knickers, unmentionables… whatever you call them, they seem quite self-explanatory. You just slip on a fresh pair every day; how can there be much more to it than that? While these essential undergarments are pretty straightforward in function, there are a few facts about them you need to get straight, because there actually is more to them than just picking out the cutest ones at Victoria’s Secret!
1. Your panties have a shelf life, even if it’s not clearly defined
You probably have a few favorite pairs of underwear. Maybe you own a couple of sexier-looking, frillier pairs that you spent a bit more on, but let’s be real here—one of your favorites is usually a clearly worn, but super comfy pair that you can’t wait to wear after doing the laundry every week. You know the pair—maybe it’s a little faded, and there might be a few holes here and there, but they’ve still got some life left in them, right?
If you have any underwear that is either frayed, has holes, period stains, overstretched elastic or is a different color from when you bought it, we hate to say it, but it’s time to toss it and buy some new ones. We promise: You’ll find newer and comfier ones again.
2. Cotton is the way to go, for both comfort and health
Almost like sheets with a high thread count, cotton panties are the highest mark of comfort that you should shop for. Not only do they offer a soft feel, but they’re breathable and are usually less expensive than synthetic materials. Cotton is also the optimal underwear material because it’s nicer to our skin and won’t cause the same irritation that might come from a nylon or polyester pair.
3. Thongs and the gym are two things that shouldn’t go together
You don’t even think twice about throwing on a sports bra when you exercise, so why should performance-specific underwear be any different of a choice? Anyone who has tried wearing a regular bra to spin class or on a run probably knows there’s some pretty uncomfortable friction going on, and that can happen just as much with underwear.
You may not want to risk a visible panty line while wearing your favorite lululemon leggings, but a thong isn’t exactly the best solution. Dr. Shieva Ghofrany, an obstetrician and gynecologist at Stamford Hospital, explains that not only will your skin get irritated because of movement, but you also could be transferring bacteria from the back to front of that region. Luckily, many athletic wear companies now make lightweight, seamless underwear that will keep you dry and comfy while working out. Popular performance wear brands like Nike and Under Armour also make shorts that are already lined with specially made, moisture-wicking undies, which allow you to forego a pair altogether!
4. In general, thongs put you at a higher risk for infections
In order for them to do their job, thongs usually fit pretty snug. When you combine the tight fit with the abrasive material they’re often made of (like lace), you have a pretty good equation that could equal infection. Dr. Ghofrany says frequently wearing them could increase your chances of developing one, especially if you’ve had infections down there before. “Thongs are not the most breathable type of underwear,” she says. “You want underwear that won’t trap moisture because moisture attracts bacteria.”
So while Dr. Ghofrany doesn’t urge everyone to toss their thong collection, she recommends toning it down a bit if they’re your daily go-to. This will give your lady parts a bit of a breather—literally.
5. Fancier undies need to be washed delicately
When it comes to laundering, not all pairs of underwear are created equal. Most cotton types can be machine-washed and tossed in the dryer without any issue, but more delicate pairs need extra love! The first rule of thumb is to always read the label. Regardless of how you are washing these pieces, be sure not to use soaps with powerful chemicals like bleach or chlorine. Use special detergents like Woolite Delicates or the Laundress’ Delicate Wash for these items, since they don’t use harsh ingredients.
If you’re planning on hand-washing your delicates in the sink, you still want to separate colors as you would with a machine load. Soak your underwear for a few minutes in water that is lukewarm, but not hot, before rinsing them with cool water. Wring them out gently, to get rid of most of the water, but not so much that you stretch out the fabric. Line-drying delicate pieces is always a safe bet, but if you choose to use the dryer, avoid high settings.
6. The looser the better
When it comes to the fit of underwear, you obviously don’t want it drooping and falling off, but you should seek a fit that isn’t so tight that it’s leaving uncomfortable marks on your waistline. Aside from discomfort, tight underwear traps moisture, even more so when worn under skinny jeans or leggings—and you want that area to breathe! Dr. Ghofrany also recommends skipping underwear altogether at night. “I don’t advise going commando during the day under tight-fitting clothes, but letting your genital region breathe at night while sleeping can be beneficial,” she says.
It may feel like there are so many details to remember when it comes to your underwear—but all you have to do is keep these tips in mind to ensure comfort, hygiene and convenience!