Our bras are everyday essentials that require TLC. Unlike other clothing pieces, bras are made of elastic and delicate materials that require extra care when it comes to washing so they can keep their shape and extend their lifespan.
So instead of buying a new set every now and then, why not wash and care for them the right way using these easy washing steps.
How to Hand Wash Bras
- Pre-treat: wet your soft towel with water and mild soap and gently dab on stains on the cup, corners, and straps of your bra.
- Soak: using a mild detergent and cool water, soak your bra and leave for 30 minutes.
- Rinse: remove suds by using cool water. Gently squeeze to remove excess water but never wring.
- Air-Dry: lay your bra flat on a towel and gently press to squeeze out excess water, or air dry them on a hanger. Never put your bras in a drying machine. The heat damages the elasticity.
How to Machine Wash Bras
- Set The Cycle: always set your machine to a gentle/delicate cycle, use cold water and a mild detergent.
- Hook: make sure that the hooks are clasped to avoid tangling and damage.
- Use A Wash Bag: keep your bras safe with a Meshin’ Around Wash Bag or a Delicate Care Bra Saver.
- Air-Dry: lay your bra flat on a towel and gently press to squeeze out excess water, or air dry them on a hanger. Never put your bras in a drying machine. The heat damages the elasticity.
How to Wash Your Sports Bra
Machine Wash
- Set the cycle to delicate or normal, depending on the care instruction on the tag. You may use regular detergent or sports detergent (since sports bras are more prone to odor due to sweat).
- If your sports bra has hooks, make sure they are clasped and place them in Meshin’ Around Wash Bag or in a Delicate Care Bra Saver.
- Air dry on a hanger or lay flat on a towel to absorb the water.
Hand Wash
- Check and follow the care instructions on the tag. You may use regular detergent or sports detergent.
- Rinse thoroughly and avoid too much twisting to remove excess water. Air dry on a hanger or lay flat on a towel to absorb the water.
Life Hack:
Only mild detergents are ideal for washing your bras. But if ever your run out, you can also use regular baby shampoo. Just make sure to rinse them thoroughly since shampoo creates more suds.
How to Store Your Bras
Now that you’ve learned the right way to wash your bras, it’s also a must to know how to store them to keep their shape.
- Crowded drawers are not bra-friendly. Ideally, hang them up separately to avoid the cups from wrinkling or being deformed.
- Folding. It’s not ideal to fold your bras especially if they are wired or padded. Set them apart in your drawer.
- Use organizers or drawer dividers. Space is important for bras to retain their best shape.
Caring for your bra is caring for your money too! Prolonging our bra’s lifespan depends on how we wash, dry, and store them. Don’t throw away your money replacing bras so often. They’ll last if you give them a little extra care between washes.
Any other pro tips? Let us know! Have a friend who can use a few bra care tips? Spread the word and tag us @Shapermint!
