An underwear expert has shared the real reason why ‘knicker pockets’ exist, warning against a popular hack that’s currently doing the rounds on TikTok.
You may have noticed the strange ‘pocket’ that is usually found inside the crotch of women’s underwear – a feature that, bizarrely, recently became a viral trend online:
TikToker @aniezabay1 recently shared a video explaining what she – and many others – believed it was for, showing as she rolled a pair of pants up and stuffed them inside the gusset, creating a neat little package to tidy them away into a drawer.
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In another video, she also joked that it could be used as a storage compartment for paper money.
Her 'life hack' video ended up racking up more than 50,000 likes and a whopping 3.4 million views, although many commenters were left wondering if some people simply had too much time on their hands.
Underwear experts are now advising against the clothes-folding hack, revealing what the excess material is really for.
Experts at Lounge Underwear say it is not designed to hold the fold in place, as many social media users currently believe.
Instead, its purpose is arguably much more important, as it’s all down to hygiene and vaginal health.
Emily Blount, Head of Product at Lounge Underwear, said: “Many underwear fabrics aren't great for vaginal health so this ‘mini pocket’ actually creates a protective layer. This helps to prevent sweat, which can lead to unwanted bacteria that can cause a range of problems including irritation and itchiness, which can be uncomfortable and take time to recover from.
“Cotton is a natural fibre and absorbent of moisture (sweat, fluids etc) but most importantly breathable, so sustainable fabrics, like we use at Lounge for the gusset, are designed to protect you.
"We also feel that the extra coverage is great to add a layer for modesty, especially if wearing something that’s sheer.
“Although this hack appears effective for storing your underwear, we recommend NOT doing this as it could stretch out or affect the fabric of your favourite knickers if consistently bundled together.
"Your lingerie will stay high-quality for longer if you lay it out in a single layer in your underwear drawer.”
Jess Hardiman