How to Wash and Care for Your Bras & Lingerie (So They Last Longer)

Beautiful lingerie is an investment — and with the right care, your favourite bras and sets can look new for years instead of months. The bad news? The washing machine is often the culprit behind stretched bands and misshapen cups. Here’s how to wash bras and lingerie the right way, step by step.

Hand Wash Whenever You Can

Hand washing is the gold standard for delicates. Fill a basin with cool water and a little mild detergent, swirl your lace pieces gently, soak for a few minutes, then rinse. Avoid hot water, which breaks down elastic and fades colour.

If You Must Machine Wash

Use a mesh lingerie bag, fasten all hooks so they don’t snag, choose a delicate cold cycle, and never mix bras with heavy items like jeans. This protects the shape of moulded and padded cups.

Never Wring — Always Air Dry

Wringing twists and damages cups and lace. Instead, press water out gently in a towel, reshape the cups, and air dry flat in the shade. Direct sun and dryers weaken elastic and fade fabric.

Store Them the Right Way

Never fold one cup into the other — it creases moulded bras. Store bras flat or standing in a drawer with cups nested the same way, and lay delicate sets flat so they keep their shape.

Little Habits That Extend the Life of Lingerie

Rotate between a few bras rather than wearing one daily, give elastic 24 hours to recover between wears, and wash after 2–3 wears. Ready to refresh your drawer? Explore our bras and nightwear.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I wash my bra?

Every 2 to 3 wears is ideal, unless it becomes sweaty or soiled sooner.

Can I put bras in the washing machine?

Yes, if you fasten the hooks, use a mesh lingerie bag and a delicate cold cycle — but hand washing is gentler and lasts longer.

Why should I not tumble dry bras?

Heat from a dryer breaks down elastic and can warp padded cups, so always air dry in the shade.

How do I stop my padded bras from losing shape?

Hand wash, never wring, reshape the cups, air dry flat, and store them without folding one cup into the other.