The Ultimate Guide to Lingerie Care How to Wash, Dry and Store Your Bras Properly

Buying beautiful lingerie is an investment — but keeping it looking and feeling new requires proper care. Many women unknowingly damage their bras and knickers by washing them incorrectly, using the wrong detergents, or folding them in ways that crush the cups. If your favourite bra suddenly loses its shape, your lace turns scratchy, or your straps loosen too quickly, chances are it’s not the quality — it’s the care routine.

To help your lingerie last longer, maintain elasticity and stay fresh, here’s the complete guide to washing, drying and storing your underwear the right way.

 

---

 

How Often Should You Wash Your Bras?

One of the most common questions women ask is, “How many times can I wear a bra before washing it?”

According to lingerie experts:

• Everyday bras should be washed after 2–3 wears
  
  

• Sports bras should be washed after every workout
  
  

• Delicate lace or silk bras can be washed after 1–2 gentle wears
  
  

• Underwear and shapewear should always be washed after every wear
  
  

Sweat, body oils and deodorants can break down the fabric over time — so washing at the right frequency is key.

 

---

 

Hand Wash vs Machine Wash — Which Is Better?

Hand washing is always the safest method, especially for lace, silk, satin or padded bras. However, machine washing is acceptable if done with proper precautions.

✅ How to Hand Wash Bras (Best Method)

1. Fill a basin with lukewarm water — never hot.
   
   

2. Add a small amount of mild detergent or lingerie wash (avoid fabric softeners — they destroy elasticity).
   
   

3. Soak bras for 10–15 minutes.
   
   

4. Gently rub the fabric with fingertips to remove sweat or residue.
   
   

5. Rinse with cool water until soap-free.
   
   

6. Lightly press out water — never wring or twist.
   
   

 

---

 

✅ How to Machine Wash Bras Safely

If you must machine wash:

✔️ Use a lingerie wash bag — it prevents tangling and stretching
✔️ Choose a gentle or delicate cycle
✔️ Use cold or lukewarm water
✔️ Fasten the hooks to avoid snagging

Avoid washing bras with jeans, towels or heavy garments — the friction can ruin delicate fabric.

 

---

 

Can You Put Bras in the Dryer?

Absolutely not. Heat is the number one enemy of lingerie. It destroys elastic fibres, causes shrinkage and warps padding.

✅ Best Drying Method:

• Lay bras flat on a towel or
  
  

• Hang them by the centre gore (the middle bridge) — not by the straps, as it stretches them out
  
  

Avoid hanging bras in direct sunlight, which can fade colours.

 

---

 

How to Store Bras Properly

Storing your bras correctly is just as important as washing them.

🚫 Never Fold Padded or Molded Bras in Half

Folding one cup into the other crushes the shape. Instead:

✅ Lay bras flat in a drawer with cups facing upwards.
✅ Stack them side by side like a filing system.
✅ For non-padded or lace bras, you may roll gently or fold flat.

If you’re short on space, drawer organisers or lingerie boxes help keep them in shape.

 

---

 

Best Practices for Knickers, Lace & Delicate Lingerie

 

---

 

Quick Lingerie Care Do’s & Don’ts

 Do:

• Rotate your bras — don’t wear the same one two days in a row (it needs time to regain elasticity)
  
  

• Use mild or lingerie-specific detergents
  
  

• Close hooks before washing
  
  

 Don’t:

• Iron your bras — heat destroys elasticity
  
  

• Hang bras by straps
  
  

• Use bleach or strong stain removers
  
  

 

---

 

When Should You Replace Your Bras?

Even with perfect care, bras don’t last forever. The average lifespan of a bra worn weekly is 6 to 12 months.

Replace your bra if:

• The band rides up at the back
  
  

• Straps no longer adjust or slip constantly
  
  

• Cups lose shape or become wrinkled
  
  

• It feels loose even on the tightest hook
  
  

A good bra should support your posture and shape — not feel like a burden.

 

---

 

Final Thoughts — Treat Your Lingerie with Love

Lingerie sits closest to your skin — it deserves gentle care. With just a few simple changes in your washing and storage routine, you can double the lifespan of your favourite bras and knickers while keeping them soft, fresh and comfortable.

Think of it this way — if you invest in quality lingerie, invest a little time in caring for it too. Your body (and your wardrobe) will thank you.