- Beauty&Health
- clothes
The Ultimate Guide to Washing Your Bras the Right Way
Maintaining superb form and lifetime of use from your bras depends on proper care of them. Before washing, always review the care instructions since different textiles require particular treatment. The easiest way to keep your bras' fit and longevity is to hand wash them; comfort depends much on the correct size as well.
RELATED: 7 Super Comfy Bras Up to 63% Off on Amazon—Shop Top Brands Now!
Read on for simple advice on how to make your bras last and keep them clean!
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: How Often Should You Wash Your Bra? Here's What Experts Say
Instructions
Hand Wash Bras
STEP 1: Make a cleaning solution.
To completely submerge the bra, fill a basin with water and a light detergent.
Choose an alcohol-free detergent devoid of phosphates, perfumes, and artificial coloring. Fragrant and fragrance-free detergents are gentler on delicate skin and textiles, reducing the risk of irritation or allergic reactions, especially on the chest.
Step 2: Get Rid of Colors
Using a washcloth, apply the soapy mixture to any visible spots. Rub lightly to remove the spots.
Step 3: Give the bra time to soak.
with the sink, soak your panties with soapy water. Rub the suds into the towel gently after a few minutes of soaking.
Step 4: Clean
Wash your bra well to remove any soap residue. To get rid of any excess water, gently fold your bra over a towel before allowing it to air dry.
Step 5: Dry
Your bra can be laid flat to air dry or hung in a well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight. Avoid hanging bras by the straps as this can cause them to expand.
RELATED: Should You Wear a Bra to Bed? Here's What to Know
Machine Washing Bras
Step 1: Prepare your bras for the washing machine.
Before you put your bras in the washing machine, take a few precautions to minimize damage. To prevent the bras from snagging on other items, hook the clasps and store them in a mesh lingerie bag for further security.
Step 2: Utilize the Mild Cycle
Set your washing machine to the delicate cycle after using cold water and a mild laundry detergent. This ensures that the delicate fabric of your bras won't be harmed during washing.
Fabric softener should never be used to wash bras. The coating of the softener may reduce the elasticity of bras.
Step 3: Dry with Low Heat
The ideal way to air dry your bra is on a towel, but you can also use the lowest setting on your dryer. Avoid severe heat since spandex and elastic may eventually deteriorate in extremely hot or cold temperatures. Take care when tumble drying because too much force could cause the underwire to strain or come out.
RELATED: The Ultimate Guide to Washing Your Bras the Right Way
How Often to Wash Your Bra
In general, bras need to be cleaned after just one or two uses. Because they are so close to your skin, they have a tendency to collect sweat, oils, and bacteria. When you exercise more or it's warmer outside, your body creates more perspiration and oil, which your bra fabric absorbs. Because frequent cleaning can lead to bacterial growth and unpleasant odors, it is essential for both comfort and hygiene.
RELATED: How Often Should You Wash Your Bra? Here's What Experts Say
Treatment for Bra Stains
Spot-treat stains in between washes to reduce the frequency of washing. If you see a stain but don't want to wash the entire bra, gently clean the damaged area with a clean washcloth dipped in soapy water (ideally with a mild detergent). Before reusing the bra, let it air dry entirely.
How to Care for and Repair Bras
Your bras' lifespan can be increased with proper care. To maintain the cups' structural integrity after washing, reshape them and straighten any twisted straps. To prevent heat damage, let your bras air dry. You might want to lay them flat on a drying rack. The fabric and elastic may become weakened by the heat, therefore avoid using the dryer.
RELATED: Ditching the Bra: Expert Insights on What Really Happens
How to Store Bras
Bras should always be stored upright with the clasps closed and folded into one another to keep their shape. Particularly for bras with underwires or delicate fabrics like lace, this technique guarantees durability and guards against damage. Over time, wrinkles and structural damage may result from folding a bra in half with one cup inside the other.
Advice for Maintaining Clean Bras for a Longer Time
Turn Your Bras Around
Avoid using the same bra twice in a row. To allow the elastic to recuperate and maintain its shape, switch between a few bras. Additionally, this prolongs the life of your bras and lessens perspiration accumulation.
How to Take Care of Sports Bras
Sports bras require careful handling even if they don't have clasps or wires. Use a gentle wash cycle and place them in a mesh washing bag. To get rid of oil and perspiration, always wash them after working out.
Use Smaller Loads for Washing
Do not put too much strain on the washing machine. Bras last longer when washed in smaller loads because they are less likely to be harmed by bulkier things like sweaters or pants.
RELATED: Is It Harmful to Wear a Sports Bra All Day, Every Day? Experts Weigh In
When my bras get ruined in the washing machine, what causes it?
Bras can get damaged by snagging, tearing, or the washing machine's agitation process. Particularly vulnerable to losing their shape or integrity are delicate fabrics and structured cups. To prevent this, use the proper washing methods, such as mesh laundry bags, cold water, and gentle cycles.
Can a Pillowcase Be Used to Clean Bras?
Yes, a pillowcase can be used in place of a mesh laundry bag. Fold your bras and slide them into the pillowcase after you've closed the hooks. Before washing the case on a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent, tie a loose knot at the open end.
Do you take off your bra pads after you wash?
Always remove the bra pads before washing in a machine. Hand washing is the best way to ensure that pads maintain their shape. Rinse them in the sink with a mild detergent, then lay them flat to air dry. Bra pads should not be placed in the dryer since heat might deform their shape.
Top Headlines