Expert-Approved Guide to Washing Your Bras
Working Time: 5 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Skill Level: Beginner | Estimated Cost: $5–$10
Your bras' lifespan and shape can be greatly increased by taking proper care of them. Always read the care labels for any special directions before washing, as some fabrics or decorations might need more attention than others.
Compared to machine washing, hand washing is frequently the best way to maintain the longevity and integrity of bras. The outcomes are worth the effort, despite the fact that it may appear less convenient.
This review provides professional advice on how to take care of your bra so you can get the most out of your underwear.
RELATED: What Experts Say About Going Braless: Here's What Happens
What You'll Need
Equipment/Tools
For Washing by Hand:
- Sink
For Washing in a Machine:
- Washing machine
- Dryer
Materials
For Washing by Hand:
- Mild laundry detergent
- Washcloth
- Towel
For Washing in a Machine:
- Mesh lingerie bag
- Mild laundry detergent
RELATED: 15 Ultra-Comfy Bras Up to 63% Off on Amazon—Featuring Bali, Hanes, Playtex, Warners, and More
Instructions
How to Wash Bras by Hand
Step 1 Prepare a Cleaning Solution
Fill a basin with enough water and a mild washing detergent to completely submerge the bra.
Select an alcohol-free detergent free of artificial coloring, phosphates, and fragrances. Detergents without fragrances and dyes are kinder to sensitive skin and fragile materials, lowering the possibility of irritation or allergic reactions, particularly on the chest.
Step 2 Eliminate Discolorations
Apply the soapy mixture with a washcloth to any stains that are visible. To get rid of the stains, gently rub.
Step 3 Let the bra soak.
Submerge your underwear in soapy water in the sink. After a few minutes of soaking, gently rub the suds into the cloth.
Step 4 Cleanse
Rinse your bra well and wash off any soap residue. Before letting your bra air dry, gently fold it against a towel to remove any extra water.
Step 5 Dry
You can either hang your bra in a well-ventilated room away from direct sunlight or lay it flat to air dry. Bras can stretch if they are hung by the straps, so avoid this.
RELATED: The Ultimate Bra Guide: Expert Tips, Comfort Hacks, Must-Know Facts, and Top Product Picks
Bra Washing Instructions in a Washing Machine
Step 1 Get Your Bras Ready for the Washing Machine
To reduce damage, take a few steps before putting your bras in the washing machine. For added safety, put the bras in a mesh lingerie bag and hook the clasps to keep them from snagging on other objects.
Step 2 Make Use of the Gentle Cycle
Use cold water and a light laundry detergent, then set your washing machine to the delicate cycle. This guarantees that your bras' delicate fabric will not be damaged when being washed.
Bras should never be washed with fabric softener. Bras' elasticity may be harmed by the softener's covering.
Step 3 Use Low Heat to Dry
Although air drying your bra on a towel is the best option, you can also use your dryer's lowest setting. Steer clear of intense heat since spandex and elastic might eventually degrade in extremely hot or cold climates. Because too much effort may cause the underwire to come out or stretch, be careful to tumble dry.
The Frequency of Bra Washing
Generally speaking, bras should be cleaned after one or two wears. They tend to gather perspiration, oils, and bacteria because they are in close proximity to your skin. Your bra fabric absorbs the extra sweat and oil your body produces during times of greater exercise or warmer weather. Regular washing is necessary for comfort and hygiene because this might result in bacterial growth and offensive odors.
RELATED: How Often Should You Wash Your Bra? Experts Weigh In
Bra Stain Treatment
To keep your bras looking new without needless washing, spot-treat stains in between washes. If there is a stain on your bra but it doesn't require a complete wash, gently clean the damaged area with a clean washcloth immersed in soapy water (ideally with a light detergent). Before reusing the bra, let it air dry entirely.
How to Maintain and Fix Bras
Your bras' lifespan can be increased with proper care. To keep the cups structurally sound after washing, reshape them and straighten any twisted straps. To avoid heat damage, air-dry your bras whenever you can. If you need room to lay them flat, you might want to get a drying rack. A dryer can weaken the cloth and elastic, so stay away from it.
How Bras Are Stored
Close the clasps and store your bras upright, folding them into each other to maintain their shape. This technique guarantees durability and guards against harm to bras with wires or delicate materials like lace. Over time, wrinkles and structural damage may result from folding a bra in half and tucking one cup inside the other.
RELATED: 9 Indicators That You Need to Replace Your Bra Immediately
Advice for Maintaining Cleaner Bras for Longer
Turn Your Bras Around
Rotate among a selection of favorites to give your bras a rest. To give the elastic time to heal and hold its shape, avoid wearing the same bra two days in a row. Additionally, frequent rotation reduces perspiration accumulation, extending the life of each bra.
Take Care When Using Sports Bras
Sports bras benefit from delicate cleaning procedures even if they don't include clasps or wires. To maintain the elasticity and spandex material, put them in a mesh laundry bag and utilize the mild cycle. To get rid of perspiration and oil, don't forget to wash your sports bras after each activity.
Use Smaller Loads for Washing
When washing bras, try not to fill the washing machine to overflowing. They will be thoroughly cleaned and shielded from hard touch with heavy objects like sweaters or jeans if you wash them in smaller batches. Smaller loads make your bras last longer by reducing wear and tear.
What Causes My Bras to Ruin in the Washing Machine?
Snagging, tearing, or the agitation process in the washing machine can cause bras to get damaged. Structured cups and delicate textiles are especially prone to losing their integrity or form. Use the right washing techniques, such as cold water, gentle cycles, and a mesh laundry bag, to avoid this.
Is it Possible to Clean Bras in a Pillowcase?
Yes, you can use a pillowcase instead of a mesh laundry bag. After closing the hooks, fold your bras and insert them into the pillowcase. Tie a loose knot at the case's open end before washing it on a gentle cycle with mild detergent and cold water.
When you wash, do you remove your bra pads?
Bra pads should always be taken off before machine cleaning. For pads to keep their shape, hand washing is the best option. Lay them flat to air dry after rinsing them in the sink with a light detergent. Heat can distort the contour of bra pads, so don't put them in the dryer.
Top Headlines