How Well do YOU Live Up to These “Expert” Hygiene Standards?

Jeans are everywhere in El Paso, let alone in Texas. And I know how often I wash mine.

How many El Pasoans could live up to these "expert" hygiene standards in the Lone Star State?

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After reading a recent report from cnn.com I couldn't help but question my own laundry hygiene practices. And I don't think I'm alone.

Do you think you live up to the following recommendations, according to the professionals?

"Hygiene Principles for Clothes."

According to Dr. Anthony Rossi, a dermatologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, beliefs about clothing hygiene are primarily shaped by culture and society.

In America, where people generally have more resources, the luxury of over-washing and being overly hygienic with clothing is more prevalent.

However, it is crucial to know when to wash clothes to avoid skin problems, infections, and damage to clothing.

Certain clothing items, such as underwear, socks, tights, leggings, and activewear, should be washed after each use due to bacteria, sweat, odor, and visible dirt.

Fungal infections can occur inside shoes, so it is recommended to wash shoes or insoles in a washing machine at least once a month.

As for pajamas, outerwear, and jeans, the same principles for undergarments and activewear apply. If jeans are not sweaty, dirty, or stained, they do not need to be washed frequently.

When considering whether to wear something again without washing it, there are essential questions to ask yourself, such as whether the item smells, if you have any skin conditions, if the item is visibly dirty or sweaty, and if underwear was worn.

The answer to these questions will vary depending on individual circumstances, and experts suggest exercising your best judgment.

On the flip side, a failure to understand when to wash clothes can lead to skin problems, infections, and damage to clothing.

So, while it may be a luxury to over-wash and be overly hygienic with clothing, it is important to exercise caution and be aware of the risks associated with under-washing.

By following the guidelines mentioned above and being mindful of your individual circumstances, you can maintain good hygiene and keep your clothes in good and clean condition.

"There's no hard and fast rule for how many times you can wear clothing again, but experts say there are a few types that should be washed after every use: underwear, socks, tights, leggings, and activewear. This advice also applies to any other clothes with stains, sweat, odor, or visible dirt, Mohammed said."

What are your thoughts?

Let me know at nico@klaq.com