Let’s be honest—laundry day isn’t the most exciting part of our week. But caring for your lingerie properly can keep your delicates in great condition, helping them last longer and feel fabulous every time you wear them. Tossing bras, lace panties, and other delicate items into the regular wash cycle can lead to stretched fabrics, lost elasticity, and fading. Follow these simple tips to preserve your favorite lingerie and keep it looking fresh.
1. Hand Washing: The Gold Standard
Hand washing is the gentlest method and ideal for most types of lingerie, especially lace and silk. It protects the delicate fabrics from friction and keeps them in shape.
How To:
- Fill a basin with lukewarm water and a small amount of mild detergent designed for delicates.
- Soak your lingerie for about 10-15 minutes, then gently rub the fabric to remove any dirt or oils.
- Rinse in cool water until all the soap is gone, and gently press out excess water—avoid wringing, as it can damage delicate fabrics.
2. Use Bra Bags for Machine Washing
For days when hand washing isn’t an option, a mesh lingerie bag is a great alternative. This bag reduces the rough contact lingerie has with other clothes and helps maintain the shape of your bras and panties.
How To:
- Place your bras, panties, and other delicates in a mesh bag, and set your washing machine to a gentle cycle with cold water.
- Use a mild, fragrance-free detergent and skip the fabric softener—it can break down the fibers in delicate fabrics over time.
3. Hook and Fold Bras Before Washing
Bras with hooks can snag on other items, especially lace lingerie. To avoid this, fasten the hooks before placing them in the laundry bag, and fold the cups inside each other to keep them in shape.
4. Use the Right Detergent
Ordinary laundry detergent can be too harsh on delicate fabrics, leading to wear and fading. Choose a gentle detergent specially formulated for delicates, which will clean without damaging the material.
5. Air Dry Only
The dryer’s high heat can wreak havoc on delicate fabrics, causing shrinkage, fading, and loss of elasticity. Instead, air dry your lingerie by laying it flat on a towel, or gently hang it over a drying rack.
Tip: Avoid direct sunlight, which can fade colors and weaken fabrics. Instead, air dry in a cool, shaded spot.
6. Skip the Ironing
Never iron lingerie, as the high heat can damage delicate fabrics. If you need to remove wrinkles, let them hang in a steamy bathroom while you shower—the steam will smooth out the fabric without direct heat.
7. Storage Matters
Storing your lingerie properly also extends its life. Fold bras with cups facing each other to maintain their shape, and avoid overcrowding. Place lace and delicate items in a separate drawer to prevent snags.
Final Thoughts
Washing your lingerie the right way may take a bit more time, but the effort is worth it. By following these simple steps, you’ll keep your delicates in great shape, ensuring they look beautiful and last longer. Embrace the gentle approach, and enjoy the luxury of lingerie that looks and feels fabulous every time you wear it!