How to Properly Care for Your Bras: Expert Tips

Essential Items You’ll Need

Required Tools and Equipment

Necessary Materials

Step-by-Step Guide

How to Properly Hand-Wash Your Bras

Follow these easy steps for hand-washing your bra to keep it in top condition.

Prepare a Cleaning Solution

Mix a small amount of mild laundry detergent with water in a sink. Add enough liquid to fully submerge the bra.

"We suggest using a gentle soap and water mixture to wash your bras," advises Cohen. Opt for an alcohol-free detergent that is free of phosphates and synthetic dyes.

Treat Stains

Use a washcloth to gently blot any visible stains with the soapy solution. Lightly rub to remove the stains.

Soak the Bra

Place your bra into the sink filled with soapy water. Let it sit for a few minutes, then carefully massage the suds into the fabric.

Rinse Thoroughly

Rinse your bra thoroughly to remove all soap. To eliminate excess water, gently press the bra against a towel before setting it out to air dry.

Allow to Dry

Let your bra air dry by placing it flat or hanging it in a well-ventilated space, away from direct sunlight. Avoid hanging it by the straps as this can lead to stretching.

Washing Bras in a Machine

If you're in a rush and need to wash your bras in the machine, follow these steps.

Prepare Your Bras for Machine Washing

Before placing your undergarments in the washing machine, take a few steps to protect them. "Fasten your bra hooks to prevent them from snagging other items, and use a mesh lingerie bag to keep your bras safe during the wash," recommends Cohen.

Use the Delicate Cycle

When machine washing bras, opt for the delicate cycle with cold water and a mild detergent to safeguard the fabric.

Tumble Dry on Low Heat

For air drying your bra, it's best to lay it flat on a towel. If you prefer using the dryer, choose the lowest setting. Avoid high heat, as extreme temperatures can degrade elastic and spandex over time. Always tumble dry gently to prevent damaging the underwire or causing stretching.

How Frequently Should You Wash Your Bras

Dr. Nazarian advises washing bras after one or two uses. "Since they are in direct contact with your skin, they absorb oils, sweat, and bacteria," she explains. "Increased physical activity or warmer weather can elevate sweat and oil production. The fabric of the bra tends to hold these substances, which can foster bacteria and cause odors."

How to Handle Stains on Bras

It's a good idea to spot-treat stains between washes. If a stain appears but the bra isn't due for a full wash yet, clean the affected area. Dampen a clean washcloth with soapy water (mild detergent is recommended) and gently rub the stain. Allow your bra to air dry before wearing it again.

How to Maintain and Repair Your Bras

Bras can become quite costly if not properly cared for. After washing, take a moment to reshape the cups and untwist any straps. Although it takes a bit more time, air-drying is highly recommended. If you're short on space to lay them flat, a drying rack is a great investment.

How to Properly Store Bras

For the best results, fasten the clasp and store bras upright, with one cup nestled inside the other. This method helps maintain their shape, especially for bras with underwires or delicate fabrics like lace. Even if you’re tight on space, avoid folding the bra in half with one cup inside the other, as it could create more wrinkles and damage over time.

Tips for Prolonging Bra Cleanliness

To keep your bras in top condition and extend their lifespan, consider these helpful tips:

• Give your bras some rest. It's a good idea to own a variety of bras (even multiples of your favorites) to rotate between. Avoid wearing the same bra two days in a row to allow the elastic to recover and maintain its shape, and also to avoid sweat buildup.
• Be kind to your sports bras. Even though many sports bras lack clasps or underwires, treat them like regular bras by washing them in a mesh laundry bag on the gentle cycle. This helps protect their spandex and elasticity. Sports bras should be washed after every workout.
• Wash bras in smaller loads. Washing bras with fewer clothes helps them get cleaner and also protects them from larger items like jeans and sweaters that might damage them.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why do my bras get damaged in the wash?

  If bras are not properly cared for, machine washing can cause damage through snagging and the washing machine’s agitation. Bras are delicate and can tear or lose their shape. By following our washing instructions, you can avoid these issues.

• Can you wash bras in a pillowcase?

  Yes, using a pillowcase as an alternative to a mesh bag works well. Simply fasten the hooks on your bras, fold them, and place them in the pillowcase, then loosely tie a knot. Wash on the gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent.

• Should you remove bra pads before washing?

  Yes, always remove pads from your bras before machine washing. To preserve their shape, hand-wash the pads by rinsing them in mild detergent and air-drying them. Never put the pads in the dryer.