A recent study conducted by Currys has delved into the laundry habits of over 2,000 UK residents, exposing some unexpected results and shedding light on the impact of the ongoing cost of living crisis.
The survey reveals a striking gender disparity, with 20 percent of UK men admitting to changing their underwear only once a week, in stark contrast to the 81 percent of women who opt for daily changes. Shockingly, five percent of men even stretch this period to two to three weeks.
While the study highlights some potentially unhygienic practices, it also suggests that the economic strain is influencing washing habits.
Approximately 36 percent of respondents have altered their laundry routines due to rising costs. Half of those surveyed consciously wash at lower temperatures and use their washing machines less frequently to trim expenses. A third have shifted to more affordable cleaning products.
The Energy Saving Trust emphasises the financial benefits of washing clothes at 30 degrees, saving around 40 percent of annual energy consumption. This small adjustment can lead to significant cost savings, especially given that modern detergents perform effectively at lower temperatures.
The study underscores how economic challenges are prompting individuals to rethink and modify their everyday practices, including laundry, in a bid to navigate the financial constraints imposed by the cost of living crisis.
[Image created via MidJourney]