9 Items You Overwash And 9 You’re Probably Neglecting

EchoTundra Updated: 2025-08-19

Approximately 90% of the clothing we wash is not truly soiled, leading to loads of unnecessary laundry. Garments that are only lightly scented or merely wrinkled get washed anyway, wasting water, energy, and detergent. This overuse raises bills and harms the environment. Meanwhile, while we obsess over some items, we ignore others that genuinely need cleaning. Neglect lets grime and odor build up until harsher washing is required. A smarter routine begins with judging what really needs the machine and sorting with intention. To address this, we reviewed how often a washer should realistically run. A needs based schedule ensures only worthy loads get washed, conserving resources and shrinking environmental impact.

1. Jeans versus leggings

Washing jeans too often shortens life and strips dye. Each cycle softens structure and warm water can cause shrinkage so they fit differently than new. To preserve them, limit washes. Levi's CEO Chip Bergh famously has not machine washed his jeans in years, arguing that restraint protects color, shape, and water usage. Spot clean stains like early denim users did. If a full wash is truly needed, turn them inside out and use cold water. Leggings are different. Built to wick moisture, they can trap bacteria and odor. For casual wear wash after two or three uses; after workouts wash every time to stay fresh and hygienic.