I never realized how controversial the topic of pajama washing could be until a casual conversation with a friend turned into a full-blown debate. I mentioned in passing that I usually wash my pajamas once a week, and she looked at me like I had two heads before admitting she tosses hers in the laundry after every single use.

That surprising reaction sparked a much deeper discussion about hygiene habits, environmental concerns, and even cultural differences when it comes to bedtime routines. It got me thinking—how often should we really be washing our pajamas? The truth is, there’s no universal answer because personal hygiene is a very individual thing. Some people sweat heavily at night or have skin conditions that require frequent changing and washing of sleepwear, while others barely sweat and feel comfortable re-wearing their pajamas for a few nights. Your lifestyle, skin type, and bedtime habits all play a role in determining the ideal pajama washing schedule for you. If you shower right before bed and sleep in a cool room, your pajamas may stay relatively clean and fresh for several nights.

But if you skip the evening shower, live in a humid environment, or tend to toss and turn under heavy blankets, your sleepwear might absorb more sweat, oils, and bacteria, which means it’ll need washing more often. Material matters, too—cotton breathes well and holds up to frequent washes, while delicate fabrics like silk may require gentler handling and less frequent laundering. While washing too often can lead to fading colors, fabric thinning, and general wear and tear, not washing frequently enough can result in skin irritation, clogged pores, and even unpleasant odors. If you’re someone with sensitive skin or allergies, wearing unwashed pajamas could make matters worse. Dirty sleepwear can harbor dust mites, bacteria, and sweat, all of which can exacerbate acne or lead to itchy, uncomfortable nights. On the flip side, overwashing can also be an issue, especially when considering the environmental impact.

Each time we run a load of laundry, we use water, electricity, and detergent—resources that add up over time. Being mindful of how often we wash our clothes, including pajamas, can help reduce water consumption and energy use. To lessen your laundry’s environmental footprint, try using cold water, choosing eco-friendly detergents, and only doing full loads whenever possible. Experts generally recommend washing pajamas after three or four wears, which strikes a balance between cleanliness and sustainability. However, if you have skin conditions, allergies, or if you sweat a lot during sleep, you may need to wash them more frequently.

Dermatologists often advise people with skin sensitivity to err on the side of caution and wash sleepwear every couple of wears. Meanwhile, textile specialists stress the importance of following the care label on your pajamas to make sure you’re treating the fabric properly and extending its lifespan. Cultural expectations can also play a big role in how often people choose to wash their pajamas. In some cultures, daily laundering is the norm, tied to strong values around personal hygiene and tidiness. In others, it’s perfectly acceptable to wear the same sleepwear for several nights in a row. Understanding these cultural perspectives helps explain why pajama washing habits vary so much from person to person, and why there isn’t just one right way to go about it. Ultimately, the goal is to find a pajama washing routine that suits your comfort level, respects your skin’s needs, and fits within your household’s values. If you notice your pajamas start to smell, feel greasy, or irritate your skin, it’s a sign they need to be washed. If not, wearing them a few times before tossing them in the laundry is usually fine. To help maintain pajama hygiene without creating excessive laundry, try rotating between several pairs throughout the week. Air them out in the morning by hanging them on a chair or hook, and spot clean small spills or stains instead of throwing them straight into the washer. Following the garment’s care instructions will also help keep them in great shape for longer. In the end, how often you wash your pajamas is up to you. By considering your personal hygiene habits, health needs, environmental goals, and even cultural influences, you can create a pajama washing routine that fits your lifestyle. The key is finding that balance where you feel clean, comfortable, and confident in your nightly routine—because at the end of the day, what matters most is that you sleep well and feel good doing it.