5 steps in washing clothes

Admit it: You've gone a little too long without washing some of your go-to clothes. You're not alone.

4 steps in washing clothes

4 steps in washing clothes

7 steps in laundering clothes

How to wash clothes for the first time

How to separate clothes for washing

Best way to wash clothes in washing machine

But, um, how long is too long, exactly? We're discussing why it's important to wash your clothes at designated intervals—because not every item should be washed after every use. Here's how often you really need to wash your clothes to keep them clean.

Our Guide to Doing Laundry—From Sorting to Stain Removal

Recommended Washing Frequency

The following recommendations are meant as general guidelines rather than hard and fast rules.

Steps of washing clothes by hand

Remember, a sniff check is still a quick and easy way to determine when it's time for a wash. And of course, common sense applies here: Even if you can get by with washing a particular shirt every five wears in the winter, you'll have to wash it more often during the sweltering summer months.

Also consider the efficiency of your washer and dryer set in not only cleaning but maintaining the i

what temperature should you wash your clothes

how often do you wash your clothes