Experts reveal: this is what happens when you don't change your underwear daily

It may sound like the most basic rule of hygiene, but changing your underwear every day is a habit many people quietly skip. Now, experts are warning that “dirty drawers” aren’t just unpleasant — what’s left behind can pose real health risks, making daily changes a non-negotiable practice.

As unsettling as it may sound, 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 uncomfortable — it may carry genuine health consequences, according to medical experts.

Dirty underwear among the younger generation

Despite clear hygiene guidelines, a significant number of young people don’t consistently change their underwear every day. A 2023 Newsweek survey revealed that 36% of Gen Z respondents (ages 18–24) admitted to wearing the same pair of underwear for more than 24 hours, while another 14% said they do so regularly. In other words, half of Gen Z reported wearing the same underwear for at least a full day or longer.

This behavior isn’t limited to the youngest age group. The survey also found that 24% of millennials (ages 25–34) regularly wear the same underwear more than once. In contrast, older adults reported significantly cleaner habits. Among people aged 55–64, 67% said they never wear underwear for more than one day, and only 3% admitted to rewearing pairs.

Skin irritation or infection

Doctors say this growing trend of extending wear time is more than just an aesthetic issue. Bacteria, fungi, and moisture accumulate in tight-fitting clothing, creating an ideal environment for skin irritation and potential infections — especially in areas with limited airflow.

“Men and women risk skin irritation, rashes, or worsening of existing conditions such as eczema or psoriasis when they repeatedly wear underwear without washing it, due to friction and trapped moisture,” certified skin therapist Sarah Roberts told the Daily Mail.

“They trap moisture and bacteria”

Roberts warned that wearing underwear for extended periods can lead to infections such as fungal overgrowth and bacterial vaginosis (BV). Fungal infections cause itching, burning, and thick white discharge when Candida yeast multiplies. BV, which is often mistaken for a yeast infection, typically involves a fishy odor and gray or yellow discharge caused by bacterial imbalance.

“The vulva contains folds and creases that trap moisture and bacteria more easily than male genitalia,” explained Dr. Archit Agrawal, a dermatologist at ClinicSpots.

Jock itch

Women aren’t the only ones facing hygiene-related health risks — men are equally vulnerable, particularly when it comes to jock itch, a fungal skin infection marked by an itchy, red rash in the groin, buttocks, and upper thighs.

While some assume looser clothing like boxers offers greater protection, experts warn that skipping daily changes still poses a serious risk. “Men’s boxers, although they make less direct contact with the skin than women’s underwear, are not exempt from these dangers — especially when worn repeatedly without changing,” Roberts said.

Change at least once a day

While some people may stretch a pair of underwear into a second day in a pinch, doctors strongly recommend changing underwear at least once every 24 hours to reduce the risk of skin irritation and infection. This advice becomes even more important in cases of heavy sweating.|: “For those engaging in intense physical activity or who sweat heavily, changing underwear more frequently is advisable,” said Dr. Hannah Kopelman, a dermatologist from New Jersey. “In hot and humid climates, it may be necessary to change underwear more than once a day to maintain proper hygiene.”

Dr. Agrawal reinforced the message, emphasizing the importance of paying attention to early warning signs:

“If you experience discomfort, itching, or unusual discharge, change your underwear immediately and consult a medical professional if necessary.”

How often do you change your underwear? Share your thoughts in the comments below — and don’t forget to share this article with friends and family.