Bras are, without a doubt, one of the most worn pieces of clothing in any woman’s wardrobe. From a comfy seamless bra to a lacy number or a supportive sports bra, these delicate items are essential. However, the way you care for them makes all the difference. Tossing them in the washer with your jeans and tumble-drying them? 

Big mistake! Improper care can ruin the fabrics, elasticity, and overall lifespan of your bras.

So, what’s the right way to care for your bras? Let’s break it down step by step.

How Often Should You Wash Your Bras?

One of the most common questions is: How often should I actually wash my bras?

Washing them too often can wear out the elastic and delicate materials, while skipping washes for too long is, well, unhygienic. Ideally, you should rotate between different bras throughout the week. Wearing the same bra multiple days in a row can cause it to lose its shape and elasticity faster.

Here’s a simple rule of thumb:

• Wear a different bra every day for a week or two.
• After a week or two of rotation, wash all the bras together.

This approach gives each bra time to "rest," helps retain its elasticity, and keeps your laundry routine efficient. Yes, it does mean you’ll need to invest in a few extra bras, but trust us, it’s worth it! They’ll last much longer with proper care.

Hand-Washing Bras: Is It Really Necessary?

Yes, hand-washing your bras is the absolute best way to keep them in good shape. Don’t worry—it’s not as tedious as it sounds! Here’s how to do it:

1. Fill a sink or basin with cold water and add a small amount of gentle detergent.
2. Let your bras soak for about 10-15 minutes.
3. Gently rub the fabric together to remove dirt or stains. Avoid scrubbing!
4. Rinse thoroughly with cold water.
5. Hang them to dry on a shower rod or lay them flat on a towel in the shade.

Hand-washing is also the best way to remove sweat stains and odors, leaving your bras fresh and clean.

Can You Machine-Wash Your Bras?

While hand-washing is ideal, we get it—not everyone has the time. If you must use a washing machine, follow these tips:

• Use a lingerie bag. Place your bras inside a protective mesh laundry bag to prevent the straps and hooks from getting tangled.
• Choose the right cycle. Select a gentle or delicate cycle, and always use cold water (no hotter than 30°C).
• Separate your bras. Don’t wash them with heavy items like jeans or towels, as the friction can damage delicate fabrics.

While machine-washing is convenient, it’s still not the best for maintaining your bras’ longevity. Use it sparingly!

Should You Dry Your Bras in a Dryer?

Absolutely not. Dryers are a bra’s worst enemy! The heat and tumbling action can destroy elastic fibers, warp the underwire, and ruin the fabric. Instead, try these methods:

• Hang to dry. Drape your bras over a shower rod or drying line, making sure they’re in the shade to avoid sun damage.
• Lay flat. Place them flat on a clean towel to maintain their shape.

Never wring out your bras, as this can stretch and damage the material. Patience is key—air drying is worth it for long-lasting bras. 

What’s the Best Detergent for Bras?

For delicate fabrics like bras, not just any detergent will do. Look for a gentle, lingerie-safe detergent that doesn’t contain alcohol or bleach. These harsh ingredients can weaken the fabric and cause premature wear.

If you’re in a pinch, you can use a mild detergent from your laundry stash—just double-check the label to ensure it’s free of harsh chemicals.

Should Different Types of Bras Be Washed Differently?

Good news: You don’t have to separate your lace bras from your sports bras or your bralettes from your T-shirt bras. As long as you follow the washing tips above, you can clean them all together. Just remember to treat them all with the same level of care!

Extra Tips for Caring for Your Bras

Taking proper care of your bras doesn’t stop at washing and drying. Here are a few bonus tips:

• Clasp hooks before washing. This prevents the hooks from snagging on other fabrics or getting bent.
• Put your bras on the right way. Instead of hooking them in front and twisting them around, slip your arms through the straps and clasp them at the back. Twisting can stretch the straps unnecessarily.
• Store them properly. Lay your bras flat in a drawer and stack them neatly. Avoid folding one cup into the other, as this can deform the shape.
• Pack them carefully. When traveling, stuff the cups with socks or underwear to help maintain their shape.

Always Check the Care Label

Lastly, don’t ignore the care label on your bras. The symbols will guide you on how to wash and dry them properly. Most bras are labeled as hand-wash only, do not bleach, do not tumble dry, and do not iron. Follow these instructions to the letter for best results!

By following these simple washing and care tips, your bras will stay in great condition for much longer. Investing a little extra time and effort into caring for your bras not only saves you money but also ensures they’re always comfortable and supportive.