How to Clean Bras and Lingerie the Right Way: Keep Your Delicates Looking New

How to Clean Bras and Lingerie the Right Way: Keep Your Delicates Looking New

Lingerie is an investment in comfort, confidence, and style—but it’s also delicate and requires special care to maintain its shape and softness. Whether it's lace, satin, silk, or cotton, knowing how to properly clean your bras and lingerie will help them last longer and feel better every time you wear them.

Why Cleaning Your Lingerie Properly Matters

Bras and lingerie are made with fine fabrics, elastic, and stitching that can easily get damaged in a regular laundry cycle. Improper washing can stretch bands, tear lace, fade colors, or reduce the lifespan of underwires and padding. By taking a little extra care, you’ll save money and protect your favorite pieces.

Hand Washing: The Gold Standard

Step-by-Step Guide:

  • Sort by Color and Fabric Type
    Wash lights and darks separately, and avoid washing delicate lace or silk with rougher items like athletic bras.
  • Use Lukewarm Water
    Fill a basin or sink with lukewarm water—hot water can damage delicate fabrics.
  • Add Gentle Detergent
    Use a lingerie-specific detergent or a mild baby shampoo. Avoid harsh soaps or bleach.
  • Soak
    Let your bras or lingerie soak for 10–15 minutes. Gently agitate the water to help loosen oils and dirt.
  • Gently Rub and Rinse
    Lightly rub areas like the underband and cups, especially if there's sweat buildup. Rinse thoroughly with cool water.
  • Press, Don’t Wring
    Gently press out water using a towel—never wring or twist, as this can distort the shape.
  • Air Dry Flat
    Lay your pieces on a clean towel or hang them by the center gore (not the straps) to maintain shape.
  • Can You Machine Wash Bras?

Yes, but with care.

Tips for Machine Washing:

  • Use a Mesh Lingerie Bag
    This protects bras from tangling, snagging, or getting crushed.
  • Fasten Hooks and Clasps
    This prevents them from catching on other items.
  • Select the Delicate Cycle
    Use cold water and the gentlest setting available.
  • Use Gentle Detergent
    Skip fabric softeners, as they can damage elastic fibers.
  • Never Put Bras in the Dryer
    Heat breaks down elasticity—always air dry.

Extra Tips to Extend the Life of Your Bras

  • Rotate between several bras instead of wearing the same one every day.
  • Wash after 2–3 wears (or more often if you sweat heavily).
  • Store bras flat or stacked to avoid damaging cups and underwire.

Conclusion

Taking the time to properly wash and care for your bras and lingerie is a simple habit that pays off. You’ll enjoy fresher, better-fitting garments—and they’ll keep their shape, color, and comfort for much longer. Whether you choose to hand wash or machine wash with care, your lingerie deserves the love!

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