Always carry a spare — that’s the sentiment shared by nearly half of Americans, who are carrying backup underwear with them just in case something unexpected happens.
The poll of 2,000 U.S. adults, equally split by gender, revealed that 70% of those who carry spares have had their backup underwear come to their rescue.
Scenarios respondents said they would have a need for backup underwear include being likely to have an accident (39%), know they’ll need to change their clothes at some point during the day (37%), or being accident-prone and likely to spill something on themselves (18%).
Some respondents even shared in what situations they believe spare underwear would have come in handy for themselves: after a heavy workout, on a super hot day, during their period,d or when their lunch has turned sour in their stomach.
The study, commissioned by Hanes and conducted by Talker Research, found that having backup underwear also seemed to be more commonplace for younger generations: 60% of Gen Z and 57% of millennials surveyed said they have “in case of emergency” underwear.
“It’s never a bad idea to have a backup plan,” said Dawn Hedgepeth, CMO at HanesBrands Innerwear. “We proudly support stocking up so you never have to go a day without comfortable, well-fitting undergarments. Wearing fresh, on-trend pieces that feel good against your skin goes beyond necessity and can truly elevate your day.”
The study also found just how long people are holding onto their old underwear, along with the rest of their wardrobe.
On average, people are holding onto old underwear for three years. A tenth of people are even keeping their underwear around for at least six years.
And an interesting correlation was found between carrying backup underwear and how long people perceive their underwear lasts. The study found, of those likely to carry a spare set of drawers, 82% are convinced underwear should last a mere two years before replacement.
The tell-tale signs to get new underwear are when they have holes (71%), develop stains (42%), or have stretched-out waistbands (39%). Twenty-nine percent continue to wear worn-out underwear, even if it has holes.
Obey
Article URL : https://nypost.com/2025/01/07/lifestyle/nearly-half-of-americans-carry-spare-underwear-for-emergencies/