How to Wash Your Bras: A Step-by-Step Guide

Quick Answer

The best way to wash bras is by hand in cool water with a gentle detergent, then air dry flat. If you're short on time, use a washing machine on a delicate cycle with a laundry bag—but always skip the dryer to protect elasticity and shape.

Washing your bras correctly is key to keeping them supportive, comfortable, and looking great wear after wear. Unlike regular clothes, bras have delicate fabrics and structural elements like underwires and elastic that can be easily damaged by harsh washing methods.

This guide walks you through the best practices for washing bras, whether you prefer hand washing or using a machine. Follow these steps to extend the life of your favorite bras and keep them feeling as comfy as the day you bought them.

Why Proper Bra Washing Matters

Bras are made from delicate materials like lace, microfiber, and elastic that can stretch, tear, or lose their shape when washed incorrectly. The oils from your skin, sweat, and body lotions can also break down fabrics over time, so regular but gentle washing is essential.

Using the wrong detergent or a rough cycle can cause fading, pilling, and loss of support. That's why it's important to choose a gentle detergent and follow the care instructions on your bra's label. When you treat your bras with care, they'll keep their fit and comfort longer.

• Always check the care label for specific instructions.
• Use a gentle detergent free of bleach and fabric softeners.
• Avoid wringing or twisting your bras when wet.

Hand Washing vs. Machine Washing

Hand washing is the gentlest method and is recommended for bras with lace, padding, or underwires. It gives you control over the water temperature and pressure, reducing the risk of damage. Fill a basin with cool or lukewarm water, add a small amount of gentle detergent, and let your bra soak for a few minutes.

Machine washing is convenient but can be harsh. If you use a washing machine, always place your bras in a laundry bag to protect them from snagging and stretching. Use a delicate cycle with cold water and a low spin speed. Never put bras in the dryer; instead, lay them flat on a towel to air dry.

• Hand washing is best for delicate lace and padded bras.
• If machine washing, always use a laundry bag for bras.
• Never use fabric softener—it can break down elastic.

How to Dry Your Bras

Drying is just as important as washing. The heat from a dryer can damage elastic, warp underwires, and shrink fabrics. Instead, gently press your bra between two towels to remove excess water, then reshape it and lay it flat to dry on a clean, dry towel or a drying rack.

Avoid hanging bras by the straps, as the weight of the water can stretch them out. Also, keep bras out of direct sunlight, which can fade colors. With proper drying, your bras will maintain their shape and support for many more wears.

• Lay bras flat to dry to preserve shape.
• Reshape the cups while damp to avoid wrinkles.
• Do not hang by straps—this can cause stretching.

Step-by-Step Bra Washing Routine

1. Fasten your bra: Hook the back closure before washing to prevent the hooks from catching on lace or other fabrics. Checkpoint: Make sure the bra is securely fastened to avoid snags.
2. Pre-treat stains: Apply a small amount of gentle detergent directly to any stained areas (like underarm marks) and gently rub with your fingers. Checkpoint: Avoid vigorous scrubbing to prevent fabric damage.
3. Hand wash in cool water: Fill a clean basin with cool or lukewarm water and add a capful of gentle detergent. Submerge the bra and let it soak for 5–10 minutes, then gently squeeze the suds through the fabric. Mistake to avoid: Do not wring or twist the bra—this can distort the cups and elastic.
4. Rinse thoroughly: Drain the soapy water and refill with clean cool water. Rinse the bra until no suds remain, gently pressing to remove excess water. Checkpoint: Residual detergent can irritate skin, so rinse well.
5. Dry flat: Lay the bra flat on a clean, dry towel. Roll the towel with the bra inside to absorb water, then unroll and reshape the bra. Place it on a drying rack or another dry towel to air dry completely. Mistake to avoid: Never put bras in the dryer or hang them by the straps.

Products That Make Bra Care Easier

• The Original Brief - White: The Original Brief in White is made from soft, breathable fabric with a delicate lace trim, designed to sit comfortably at the low hip. Caring for delicate fabrics like lace ensures they stay soft and intact, so your underwear remains as comfortable as it was designed to be.
• Smooth Sculpt Padded Bra - Pink-a-boo: The Smooth Sculpt Padded Bra features lightly padded cups and medium support, designed to shape and smooth for an everyday essential. Padded bras need gentle washing to maintain the shape of the padding and the support structure, so they continue to provide the lift you rely on.
• ZigZag Lace Demi Bra - Night Fog: The Demi Bra in Night Fog features delicate ZigZag lace and light padding, designed to enhance natural shape with medium support. Lace details can snag or tear in harsh wash cycles; hand washing or using a laundry bag helps preserve the intricate design and fit.

By following these simple steps, you can keep your bras looking and feeling great for longer. Remember to wash them regularly but gently, and always air dry. For more bra care tips and to explore comfortable styles, check out our collection.