Bra Care Guide
Proper care extends the life of your bras, maintains their shape and support, and protects your investment. Follow these expert tips to keep your bras looking and feeling great.
Hand washing is the gentlest method for cleaning your bras
Washing Your Bras
Do
- Hand wash when possible using lukewarm water
- Use a gentle detergent made for delicates
- Soak for 15-30 minutes before gently agitating
- Rinse thoroughly until water runs clear
- Press (don't wring) to remove excess water
Don't
- Use hot water (damages elastic)
- Use bleach or fabric softener
- Wring or twist bras
- Wash with rough fabrics like denim
- Use regular detergent (too harsh)
Machine Washing (When Necessary)
While hand washing is ideal, we understand it's not always practical. If you must machine wash:
- Always use a lingerie bag to protect hooks and prevent tangling
- Fasten hooks before washing to prevent snagging other items
- Use the delicate/gentle cycle with cold water
- Use a mild detergent designed for delicates
- Wash with similar colors and only lightweight items
Important: Never put bras in the dryer. Heat is the #1 enemy of elastic and will significantly shorten the lifespan of your bras.
Drying Your Bras
Do
- Lay flat on a towel to dry
- Reshape cups while damp
- Hang by the center gore (never by the straps)
- Allow to air dry completely before storing
Don't
- Use a dryer (even on low heat)
- Hang by the straps (stretches them out)
- Dry in direct sunlight (fades colors)
- Store before completely dry
Storing Your Bras
Proper storage prevents misshapen cups, stretched bands, and damaged underwires.
Do
- Stack molded cups inside each other to maintain shape
- Store unlined or soft bras flat in a drawer
- Use drawer dividers to organize by style or color
- Fasten hooks to prevent snagging
Don't
- Fold molded cups in half (creates creases)
- Invert cups (damages the shape)
- Cram too many bras in one drawer
- Hang long-term in a closet
Rotating Your Bras
One of the most important but overlooked aspects of bra care is proper rotation.
- Aim to have at least 3-4 everyday bras in your rotation
- Never wear the same bra two days in a row
- Give each bra at least 24 hours to "rest" between wears
- This allows the elastic to recover and extends the life of your bras
When to Replace Your Bras
Even with perfect care, bras don't last forever. Here are signs it's time for a replacement:
- The band rides up in the back, even on the tightest hook
- Straps won't stay up, even when fully adjusted
- Underwire has popped out or is distorted
- Cups are stretched out, wrinkled, or no longer supportive
- Fabric is pilling, fraying, or discolored
- The bra is uncomfortable even though it used to fit well
Bra Lifespan Guide
With proper care and rotation, you can expect your bras to last:
- Everyday bras: 6-9 months with regular wear
- Special occasion bras: 1-2 years with occasional wear
- Sports bras: 3-6 months with regular athletic use
- Nursing bras: 3-6 months due to frequent washing and body changes
Special Care for Different Bra Types
Sports Bras
- Rinse with cool water immediately after sweaty workouts
- Wash after every 1-2 wears to remove sweat and bacteria
- Air dry completely to prevent mildew and odors
- Replace more frequently than regular bras (3-6 months with regular use)
Lace and Delicate Bras
- Always hand wash to prevent snags and tears
- Use a lingerie wash specifically designed for delicates
- Avoid hanging by straps which can stretch delicate lace
- Store flat or gently folded to prevent damage
Molded Cup and T-Shirt Bras
- Never fold or invert the cups
- Stack cups inside each other for storage
- Be extra careful with heat, which can warp the molding
- Reshape while damp after washing
Nursing Bras
- Wash more frequently due to milk exposure
- Have at least 3-4 in rotation
- Check clips and closures regularly for functionality
- Replace every 3-6 months as they tend to wear out faster
Travel Tips for Bras
- Pack molded bras with socks or underwear inside the cups to maintain shape
- Stack bras on top of each other, nestling the cups
- Place at the top of your suitcase to prevent crushing
- Consider a dedicated lingerie travel case for expensive or delicate bras
- Pack a travel-sized lingerie wash for longer trips
Quick Care Summary
- Hand wash when possible, or use a lingerie bag and gentle cycle
- Use mild detergent made for delicates
- Never use bleach, fabric softener, or hot water
- Air dry only - never use a dryer
- Store properly to maintain shape
- Rotate your bras - never wear the same one two days in a row
- Replace when showing signs of wear