There’s a reason they’re called “delicates.” When you have the right bra, you need to properly care for it. This way the bra can last and maintain its form because finding the perfect bra is about as easy as finding a needle in a haystack—and you want the good ones to last as long as possible.
In this guide, we will cover the ins and outs of washing your bras by hand andhow you dry bras without damaging themto prolong their life. This may help you too if you were looking for the best way to washbras for flat chestsso they don’t stretch out.
What You Need
Before starting, assemble these supplies:
- Laundry detergent: Liquid detergent works best for this method, and we recommend using a mild detergent or an unscented one if you or your daughter has sensitive skin.
- Drying rack or clothesline: The best way to maintain the bra’s shape and structure is to air dry. Find a dry area big enough to set up your drying rack or clothesline without crowding. Drying in a damp or dark place, like a basement, can encourage mold to grow on the bra.
- Clips: These will help secure the bra to the rack or line during the drying phase.
When Should I Wash My Bra?
It’s generally recommended to wash bras after four uses, but sometimes more often. Sports bras should be washed after a workout. If you sweat a lot, you should wash them more frequently. When you wear a dirty bra, your skin can become irritated and you may experience breakouts along the bra line.
Ultimate Bra Washing Guide
Here are steps to take when washing bras by hand:
Step One: Soak
Fill a clean sink with about a gallon of lukewarm or cool water. We recommend cooler temperatures because hot water breaks down the elastics in the bra, which can create a looser fit or worn fabric.
Step Two: Mix In Detergent
We recommend adding about a tablespoon of a gentle detergent to the water and let the bras soak for fifteen minutes to one hour. Less is more when it comes to detergent because too much can leave a residue on the bra’s material.
Step Three: Lather and Rinse
Now you can gently rub the bra between your hands and work it up to a light lather. Rinse the bra under cold water, but do not wring the material. When you wring or work the fabric with too much pressure, it stretches the fibers and wears out the bra. We recommend gently scrunching the bra to wring out the excess water and leftover detergent.
Step Four: Air Dry
Always air dry your bras. The heat from machine dryers is too intense and the tumbling with other laundry can twist and stretch out the bra’s fabric and structure. If your young girls wear underwire bras, this can also cause the wire to poke out from the fabric.
Clip the bras by the top of the cups to your clothesline or drying rack so you don’t stretch the straps. You can also lay them flat on a drying rack to maintain their shape. This process typically takes twenty-four to forty-eight hours. If you want them to dry faster, we recommend drying them outside in a sunny place, or in a more open area. Dark areas and colder conditions can make it take longer for bras to dry.
In Summary
When you have a bra that is super comfy and gives you the support you need, take good care of it to make it last as long as possible. Handwashing and air drying are essential to taking care of your delicate undergarments!