The When-to-Wash-It Handbook

Jackets and Blazers

How often you should wash them: After 5 to 6 wears.

What to know: Typically layered over a blouse, a tee, or a camisole, these don’t require much upkeep. However, a jacket can retain odors (say, from last night’s fajitas), so before you stuff it in a closet, air it out near a window or spritz it with the Laundress Fabric Fresh ($16 for eight ounces, thelaundress.com).

Exception to the rule: Periodically check the high-friction areas—collar, cuffs, and placket—for signs of dirt. But you can roll up the sleeves (or even pop the collar) temporarily to conceal stains on an otherwise-clean jacket.