should-you-wear-underwear-to-bed
June, 20255 MIN READ

Should You Wear Underwear to Bed? Here’s What Experts (and Your Skin) Say

It might seem like a small detail, but whether or not you wear underwear to bed can have a real impact on your comfort and skin health. From breathability to personal hygiene, there’s more to the nighttime underwear debate than you might think.

While there’s no single ‘right’ answer, sleep and skincare specialists do have a few things to say on the subject. So whether you always reach for your most supportive knickers or prefer to go without, here’s what the research (and your body) might be telling you - plus some soft, skin-friendly underwear options if you choose to keep them on.

What Does ‘Going Commando’ Mean?

If you’ve heard the phrase but wondered what it actually means, going commando is just a fancy way of saying you’re not wearing underwear at all. The phrase has military roots (think less gear, more freedom), but for most of us it’s about feeling light, free, and breathable - especially when we’re sleeping.

The Benefits of Not Wearing Underwear at Night

There’s actually some scientific support for giving your skin a little extra room to breathe while you sleep. Here’s why going without underwear can work well for some people:

Improved air-flow: Without underwear, your skin gets to breathe properly, which means less moisture and heat getting trapped. That’s good news for keeping irritation and infections at bay.

Skin recovery: Wearing tight or synthetic knickers all night can lead to unwanted friction and build-up - neither of which do your skin any favours.

Overall comfort: Many find it just feels nicer not having anything around the waist or thighs when they’re trying to relax and sleep.

Support for natural repair: Your skin works hard while you rest. Reducing contact from clothing can help minimise disruption to its overnight renewal processes.

Sounds good, right? But it’s not for everyone, and that’s totally okay.

When You Might Want to Wear Knickers to Bed

Some of us just prefer to have something on, and there are plenty of good reasons for it:

Feeling supported: Sometimes a little coverage or support helps you feel comfortable, especially if you’re moving around a lot.

Periods: Period pants or specialised night knickers can make things easier and more secure.

Keeping nightwear fresh: If you don’t wear knickers, you might find yourself washing your pyjamas more often, so wearing underwear at night can reduce your laundry load. (We’ve got tips on how often you should change your pyjamas, if you’re curious!)

Skin sensitivity: If you have sensitive skin, adding an extra layer between you and your nightwear or sheets can help reduce any irritation.

What to Wear if You’re Not Going Commando

Choosing the right knickers for bedtime really makes a difference. You want soft, breathable fabrics that don’t dig in or feel heavy.

Here are some of our favourite styles, all designed to be kind to your skin and super comfy for sleeping.

Microfibre Knickers

Microfibre is ultra-soft, stretchy, and light- perfect if you want some coverage but don’t want to feel weighed down. Great for slipping under loose pyjamas or nightgowns.
Try our Stella Microfibre Thong or the Kaylee Ultra Light Microfibre 4-Way Stretchy Shorts - they move with you helping keep your dreams sweet.

Soft, Seamless Knickers

Hate when elastic leaves marks or digs in overnight? Seamless Knickers are a dream. They have ultra-flat seams and bonded edges that mean no rubbing or VPL.

Our Seamless Microfibre High Waist Brief and Seamless Microfibre Thong are practically weightless and perfect for sensitive skin.

Modal Knickers

Modal fabric is known for its exceptional softness and breathability. It feels silky and lightweight - almost like wearing nothing at all - making it ideal for anyone prone to irritation or discomfort.

Plus, their soft and stretchy nature make for ultimate comfort during your time of the month. For overnight protection during your period, the Heavy Flow Modal Period Pants combine softness with built-in absorbency.

Going Commando or Not, It’s All About You

At the end of the day, there’s no rulebook saying you have to wear knickers to bed or not. What really matters is what feels right for you, your body, and your sleep.

Try switching it up - maybe go commando some nights and wear your favourite soft knickers other nights. Listen to your body and notice what helps you sleep best.

And when you’re ready, take a peek at Boux Avenue’s collection of dreamy, soft knickers and sleepwear made for all-night comfort. Because whatever your choice, we believe bedtime should always feel like a little luxury.