Washing bras may feel like a bit of a no brainer. After all, you’ve been washing bras for as long as you’ve been wearing bras. For most of us, our bras likely go right into the hamper with the rest of our dirty clothes, then back in our underwear drawer. Done. What you may not know, though, is that casual machine washing and drying may be shortening the lifespan of your favorite bras—and even making them less comfortable.
Bras aren’t exactly cheap, so let’s support them like they support us with some extra TLC at wash time. Learning some helpful tips for how to clean bras will make them look better and last longer. Not to mention save you money in the long run—and keep your bras from ending up in the landfill before their time.
You’re busy, which means hand washing your bras in addition to all the other things you have to do today may sound like a total pain. But believe us, it’s so worth it. And your bras will thank you by lasting longer and maintaining their shape better, so you always look and feel your best. Here’s our can’t-miss method for how to hand wash your bras. Make it more fun by throwing on some good tunes, and you’ll be done in no time.
- Fill the sink with cool water. Why? Hot water can make your bras’ shape break down quicker, and who wants that?
- Add detergent. Pour in a tablespoon or so of mild, plant-based detergent. Too much soap may leave a residue. Put on plastic / cleaning gloves and swish with your hands to work up a light lather. Be sure to not make direct contact between your skin and the detergent mixed in the water.
- Soak. Let your bras soak for an hour, then gently work the soap through with your gloved hands.
- Rinse. Rinse your bras under cool water until the water runs clear and all the soap is gone. Then gently squeeze (never wring!) to remove excess water.
- Dry on hangers: Always hang your bras and let them air dry. A dryer’s intense heat can damage your bras’ elastic and ruin the fit. Since it may take a day for them to dry fully, make sure to keep a couple extras in reserve.
If you can’t hand wash your bras every time, that’s okay. Even hand washing every other wash cycle will help them last longer.
Between kids, roommates, and busy schedules, sometimes you just need to throw your bras in the wash. No problem. But when you do, there’s a better way to wash bras in the washing machine.
- Keep it Gentle, Keep it Cool. Wash your bras on the delicate cycle and in cold water with your favorite plant-based detergent. Use only the recommended dose to avoid soapy residue. Our EasyDose Ultra Concentrated Detergent has an auto-dosing feature that measures you the perfect amount every time.
- Use a Laundry Bag. If you don’t own a mesh laundry bag, it’s time to invest in one. This will help your bras maintain their shape, keep the straps from getting tangled or caught, and help protect any delicate lace fabrics.
- Air Dry. Never put your bras in the dryer. Instead, press them dry with a clean towel, then hang to dry. Prolonging the shape and life of your bras is well worth the wait!
And that, friends, is how to clean bras. Follow these easy tips when washing your bras and they’ll fit better and last longer. Sounds like a win-win to us.