How to Care for Lace Underwear and Bras: Washing and Storage Tips

Quick Answer

To keep lace underwear and bras in great condition, hand wash them in cold water with a gentle detergent, or machine wash on a delicate cycle inside a lingerie bag. Always air dry flat and store them folded or rolled, never hung by the straps.

Lace underwear and bras add a touch of elegance to your everyday wardrobe, but they need a little extra attention to stay beautiful. The delicate fabric can easily snag, stretch, or lose its shape if you toss it in the regular wash with your towels. With the right care routine, you can extend the life of your favorite pieces and keep them looking and feeling luxurious.

Whether you've just bought a new lace bralette or have a drawer full of high-rise briefs, understanding how to wash and store them properly makes all the difference. This guide walks you through simple steps that protect the fabric, maintain elasticity, and prevent damage, so you can enjoy your lingerie for years to come.

Why Lace Needs Special Care

Lace is often made from delicate fibers like TENCEL™ Modal or recycled lace, which are soft and breathable but can be prone to tearing or losing their shape if handled roughly. The intricate patterns can snag on other fabrics or zippers, and the elastic in waistbands and straps can degrade faster when exposed to high heat or harsh detergents.

Additionally, the dyes used in colorful lace, such as the vibrant Pansy Pop or Peach Latte Leopard prints, can bleed or fade if washed in hot water or with strong chemicals. By taking a few extra minutes to care for your lace properly, you protect your investment and ensure that each piece continues to fit comfortably and look vibrant.

• Always check the care label on your garment for specific instructions, as some lace may have unique requirements.
• Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners, as these can break down elastic and damage delicate fibers.

Washing Lace Underwear and Bras by Hand

Hand washing is the gentlest method for lace and is highly recommended for bras with underwire or molded cups, as machine washing can distort their shape. Fill a clean basin or sink with cool or lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild detergent specifically designed for delicates. Submerge the items and gently swirl them for a few minutes, avoiding any vigorous scrubbing or twisting.

Rinse thoroughly in cool water until no soap remains, then press out excess water without wringing. To remove additional moisture, lay the items on a clean, dry towel and roll it up, pressing gently. This technique helps the lace retain its shape and prevents stretching.

• Never wring or twist lace, as this can permanently damage the fibers.
• If you're short on time, you can also wash lace in the shower while you bathe, using a gentle cleanser.

Machine Washing Lace with a Laundry Bag

If hand washing isn't practical, you can safely machine wash lace using a mesh lingerie bag. Place each item in its own bag or group similar colors together to prevent tangling and snagging. Use the delicate or hand-wash cycle on your machine with cold water and a mild detergent. Avoid mixing lace with heavy items like jeans or towels, which can cause friction.

Once the cycle is complete, remove the items promptly to prevent wrinkles and musty odors. Never put lace in the dryer, as the heat can shrink the fabric and damage the elastic. Instead, lay them flat on a drying rack or a clean towel, reshaping them to their original form.

• A laundry bag is an essential tool for protecting lace in the wash—choose one with a fine mesh to prevent snags.
• Wash dark and light colors separately to avoid color transfer, especially with vibrant shades.

Drying and Storing Delicate Underwear

Proper drying and storage are just as important as washing. Always air dry lace away from direct sunlight, which can cause fading. Lay items flat on a towel or a mesh drying rack to maintain their shape. Avoid hanging bras by the straps, as this can stretch them out over time. Instead, store bras flat or stack them with the cups nested to preserve their form.

For underwear, fold them neatly or roll them to save space and prevent creases. Keep them in a drawer with dividers or in separate compartments to avoid friction between pieces. If you have multiple pairs of the same style, like the Original Brief or High Rise Brief, consider keeping them together so you can easily rotate them.

• Never hang lace underwear to dry, as gravity can stretch the fabric.
• Store lace away from rough fabrics like denim or Velcro to prevent snags.

Step-by-Step Lace Care Routine

1. Sort and Prepare: Separate lace items by color and fasten any hooks. Turn bras inside out to protect the lace and prevent snags. Checkpoint: Ensure all items are unsoiled and ready for washing.
2. Choose Your Wash Method: Decide between hand washing or machine washing with a laundry bag. Use cold water and a mild detergent. Verdict: Hand washing is gentlest, but a laundry bag works well for convenience.
3. Wash Gently: If hand washing, swirl gently for 2-3 minutes. If machine washing, select the delicate cycle. Checkpoint: Avoid overloading the washer to prevent friction.
4. Rinse and Remove Excess Water: Rinse thoroughly in cool water. Press out water without wringing, then roll in a towel to absorb moisture. Never twist or wring lace.
5. Dry Flat: Lay items flat on a drying rack or clean towel, reshaping them to their original form. Keep away from direct sunlight. Checkpoint: Never use a dryer or hang to dry.
6. Store Properly: Fold or roll underwear and place in a drawer with dividers. Store bras flat or with cups nested. Verdict: Proper storage prevents stretching and snags.

Our Lace Pieces and How to Care for Them

• Eco Lace High Rise Brief - Sand: Crafted from buttery-soft TENCEL™ fibers and 85% recycled lace, GRS Certified. The recycled lace and TENCEL™ fibers are delicate and benefit from gentle washing to maintain their softness and eco-friendly integrity.
• The Original Brief - Pansy Pop: Sits at the low hip with ample back coverage, finished with delicate lace trim. The lace trim can snag easily, so using a laundry bag or hand washing helps keep the trim intact and the brief looking new.
• High Rise Brief Four Pack - Pansy Pop: Four-pack of high-rise briefs with generous back coverage, designed to stay in place. Storing them together and rotating evenly helps maintain elasticity and shape, so each pair lasts longer.

Caring for your lace underwear and bras doesn't have to be time-consuming. By following these simple washing and storage tips, you can keep your delicate pieces looking gorgeous and feeling comfortable for many wears to come. Remember, a little extra care goes a long way in preserving the beauty and longevity of your lingerie.