Day 17 · Clothes

Is it actually dirty?

Before dropping something in the wash basket, sniff it and look: if it is clean, hang it up.

Most clothes go in the wash because they were worn, not because they are dirty. Every cycle shortens their life a little: fibres loosen, colours fade, seams tire. Underwear, socks and gym kit, yes, every time. Jumpers, jeans, trousers and shirts worn over a T-shirt can go several wears. Air them overnight, spot-clean a mark with a damp cloth, and wash when they need it. Jeans in particular are happier washed rarely and cold. Your clothes last longer and your machine runs less.