How Often Should You Really Be Washing These 10 Summer Items?
By Mulberrys
Between heatwaves, backyard BBQs, and beach days, summer is hard on your clothes—and knowing how often to wash everything can be surprisingly confusing. Wash too often, and you risk fading or shrinking your favorite pieces. Wash too little, and… well, we’ve all been there.
To help you keep your summer wardrobe fresh (without overdoing it), here’s a breakdown of how often you should really be washing 10 common summer items—plus a few tips to help extend the life of your clothes.
1. T-Shirts
How often to wash: After every wear
T-shirts absorb sweat, sunscreen, and daily grime—especially in summer. Even if they don’t look dirty, a single wear is enough to warrant a wash.
2. Tank Tops & Camis
How often to wash: After each wear
These base layers sit close to the skin and are exposed to sweat and body oils, so frequent washing is a must.
3. Swimwear
How often to wash: Rinse after every swim, wash after every 1–2 wears
Saltwater, chlorine, and sunscreen all break down fabric over time. Rinse immediately after use, and hand wash or gentle cycle after every couple wears.
4. Lightweight Dresses
How often to wash: Every 1–2 wears
Light, breathable fabrics are great in the heat—but they’re also quick to absorb sweat. If it’s a looser fit and you didn’t wear it long, you might get a second use. Otherwise, toss it in the wash or bring it to the dry cleaner.
5. Shorts
How often to wash: Every 2–3 wears
Unless they’re visibly dirty or you’ve been particularly active, shorts can go a few wears between washes.
6. Linen Shirts & Button-Downs
How often to wash: Every 1–2 wears
Linen is breathable and perfect for summer, but it’s also prone to absorbing sweat and wrinkling. Spot clean when possible, and air out between wears.
7. Hats & Caps
How often to wash: Weekly or after heavy sweat
Sweatbands and brims can trap dirt and oil, especially on hot days. Hand wash gently or toss them in a mesh bag in the washer (if fabric allows).
8. Lightweight Jackets or Sweatshirts
How often to wash: Every 5–7 wears
Perfect for cooler evenings, light layers don’t need washing as often—unless you’ve been extra active or caught in a surprise rainstorm.
9. Beach Towel
How often to wash: Every 1–2 uses
Towels trap sand, chlorine, salt, and sunscreen. If they’re left damp too long, they can also start to smell. Wash after every couple uses—or every use if they’re visibly sandy or dirty.
10. Bedsheets (in summer)
How often to wash: Weekly
Hot nights mean more sweat, more skin contact, and more buildup. Washing sheets once a week helps keep your bed fresh and allergy-friendly all season long.
Need a Hand With All That Summer Laundry?
Summer is for relaxing—not spending hours sorting and folding laundry. Whether it’s your everyday basics, specialty fabrics, or sandy beach towels, Mulberrys makes it easy to stay fresh.
✅ Eco-friendly cleaning
✅ Professional care for delicates and linens
✅ Free pickup & delivery available in Minneapolis–St. Paul, the Bay Area, and Washington D.C.
📍 Book your laundry or dry cleaning pickup now!