How to Properly Wash and Store Your Bras to Extend Their Lifespan

Bras are more than just everyday essentials; They are an investment in your comfort and support. Taking proper care of them can significantly extend their lifespan and keep them in good condition. Whether you have a lace bralette, sports bra, or everyday underwire bra, here are some tips to help you wash and store your bras properly.

Understand Your Bra Material

Bras come in a variety of fabrics, including lace, cotton, and microfiber, and each material requires specific care. For example, lace bralettes are delicate and can break easily, so they need to be handled with care. Similarly, sports bras made of moisture-wicking materials should be washed to maintain their elasticity. Always check the care label on your bra to understand specific cleaning and maintenance instructions.

Separate Your Bras Before Washing

It is essential to sort your bras by color and fabric type. Wash light and dark colors separately to avoid dye transfer. If you're washing a padded bra, be sure to wash it separately from lace or hook-heavy bras to avoid damage.

Hand Washing is Best

Hand washing is the safest way to clean all your bras. Here’s how you can do it:

• Fill a basin with lukewarm water.

• Add a mild detergent designed for delicate fabrics.

• Submerge your bras and let them soak for 10-15 minutes.

• Gently rub the fabric to remove dirt and sweat.

• Rinse thoroughly in cool water until all detergent is removed.

For those who own a Natori bra, hand washing helps maintain its luxurious feel and ensures it remains supportive over time.

Use a Laundry Bag for Machine Washing

If you're short on time and need to machine wash your bras, always use a laundry bag. These mesh bags keep your bras from getting tangled with other clothes or getting caught on the hooks. Set your washing machine on the delicate cycle and use cold water to avoid fabric damage and color fading.

Skip the Dryer

Never put your bras in the dryer. High heat can damage the elastic and weaken the fabric, reducing lifespan. Instead, follow these steps:

• Gently press out excess water with a towel.

• Lay your bras flat on a clean surface to air dry.

• Avoid hanging bras by their straps, as this can cause them to stretch out.

Store Your Bras Properly

Proper storage is just as important as washing. Here’s how to store your bras the right way:

• Stack molded and padded bras with the cups facing up to maintain their shape.

• Avoid folding cups into each other, as this can cause creasing.

• Use a drawer divider to keep bras organized and prevent straps from tangling.

• For delicate pieces like lace bralettes, consider storing them in a separate section to avoid snags.

Rotate Your Bras

Wearing the same bra every day can quickly lose its shape and elasticity. It's a good idea to rotate between at least three to five bras to give each bra a rest and allow the elastic to heal.

Avoid Overwashing

Although it's important to keep your bras clean, over-washing can cause the fabric to deteriorate quickly. as a general rule:

• Wash everyday bras after every 3-4 wears.

• Wash sports bras after each workout to remove sweat and bacteria.

Check for Wear and Tear

Regularly inspect your bra for signs of wear, such as stretched bands, torn fabric, or underwire poking out. Replacing your bra when it's no longer supportive ensures you're getting the comfort and fit you need.

Treat Stains Promptly

If you see stains on your bra, treat them immediately. Make a paste by mixing a small amount of baking soda in water and gently rub it on the stained area. Leave it for a few minutes before washing it off. This method is especially helpful for maintaining light-colored bras.

Final Thoughts

Proper care can make a huge difference in extending the life of your bra. From hand washing to proper storage methods, these small steps can help keep your bras in great shape for longer. Whether you're caring for a sports bra, a lace bralette, or the trusted Natori bra, these tips will ensure that your favorites will stay with you for years to come. With proper care, your bra will look and feel good as new every time you wear it.

Read More: His, Hers, Everyone’s: Gender-Equal Underwear Goes (Slightly More) Mainstream