Your Guide to a Longer-Lasting Bra
Proper care is the secret to keeping your favorite bras comfortable, supportive, and beautiful for longer. Follow these expert tips from washing to storing to extend the life of your lingerie.
First, Close the Clasp
Before washing, always fasten the metal hooks on your bra. This simple step prevents the hooks from snagging on delicate lace or mesh, and stops them from tangling with other garments in the wash, reducing damage and extending your bra's life.
Always Use Mild Detergent
Whether you're hand-washing or machine-washing, choose a gentle detergent specifically designed for delicates or babies. These formulas are soft and won't leave harsh chemical residues, protecting delicate fabrics like lace and modal while preventing skin irritation.
If Hand Washing, Use Cool or Lukewarm Water
Fill a clean basin with cool or lukewarm water (around 20-30°C / 68-86°F)—it should feel neither icy nor warm to the touch. Hot water rapidly breaks down elastic fibers, causing straps to loosen and bands to lose their shape. Let your bra soak for up to an hour, then gently rub the fabric with your palms to avoid damage.
Rinse Thoroughly and Press, Don't Wring
After washing, rinse your bra under cool, running water until the water runs clear. Lingering detergent can harden fabrics and irritate skin. Once rinsed, gently press the cups and band between your palms to remove excess water. Never wring or twist your bra like a towel, as this can damage the shape and elasticity.
Always Use a Lingerie Bag for Machine Washing
Place your bra in a zippered mesh lingerie bag before putting it in the washing machine. This creates a protective barrier, preventing delicate lace from snagging on zippers or buttons, stopping underwires from bending or breaking, and reducing friction that causes pilling on soft fabrics.
If Machine Washing, Select the Delicate Cycle
Always use the "delicate" or "gentle" cycle on your washing machine. The slow spin speed and low agitation reduce wear and tear. High-speed cycles can bend underwires, break down elastic fibers, and damage the bra's shape. Also, wash with similar colors and lightweight fabrics to prevent damage from heavy items like jeans.
Reshape Your Bra Immediately After Washing
As soon as the wash cycle is finished, take your bra out and gently reshape it. Smooth out any wrinkles in the cups with your palms, especially for molded or padded styles. If your bra has removable pads, reposition them correctly to ensure a symmetrical fit. Reshaping before drying helps maintain the bra's original support and structure.
Always Air Dry—Never Use a Dryer
After reshaping, hang your bra to air dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. The intense heat of a machine dryer is the #1 enemy of bras—it will destroy the elastic fibers, causing the band to lose its supportive grip and lace to become brittle. Air drying is the single best thing you can do to preserve the fit and feel of your bra.
The Ultimate Bra Care Checklist
- Handle with care when wearing: Be gentle with the straps and band when putting on your bra.
- Rotate your bras: Have 3-5 bras in rotation to allow the elastic to rest and recover between wears.
- Wash after 2-3 wears: For everyday bras, wash every 2-3 wears. For sports bras, wash after every single wear.
- Prepare for washing: Always check the care label, separate light and dark colors, and close the clasp.
- Dry and reshape: Gently reshape the cups after washing and always air dry in the shade. Never twist or wring.
- Store properly: Fasten the hooks and lay bras flat in a drawer, or fold them in half, to protect the cups and straps.
- Know when to replace: When the straps are stretched, the cups are misshapen, or the band is loose, it's time for a new bra.
