How To Wash Your Delicates

We've all got that one favorite bra we reach for day after day—but when was the last time it actually got a proper wash? Caring for your delicates isn't just about keeping things fresh; it’s the secret to making your favorite pieces last, holding their shape, and supporting you best! Sweat, skin oils, and daily wear take a quiet toll on delicate fabrics and elastics, so giving them the right TLC is essential. If you want to protect your investment and keep your intimate wardrobe in peak condition, you're in the right place. Let's dive into everything you need to know about washing your delicates the right way!

To start, ask yourself a few questions:

• When was the last time I washed my bra?

• Do I know how frequently I should do this?

• Am I using the right soaps for the job?

• Do I know how to dry my bra?

If you’re not sure, think you know, or just want a quick reminder—we're here to help re-educate you on how to properly love and care for your delicates.

We will break all of this down, but to start, here are the vital rules of washing your delicates:

• Always check care tags: We always recommend reading your garment care tags, as many items require special cleaning instructions.

• Wash after every single wear: The longer body oils, deodorants, and perfumes sit on your bra, the faster the materials and elastic will deteriorate.

• Only use gentle soaps/detergents: To keep it simple — if it’s safe for a baby, it’s safe for your bras.

• Air dry: Either lay flat on a towel or hang the bras from the center gore so the straps don't lose their elasticity.

Hand Washing Delicates

Hand washing is the key to increasing the lifespan and vibrancy of your delicates. It is the safest way to ensure your bras do not get damaged while being washed.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Fill your wash tub, sink, or container with lukewarm water.

2. Add delicate wash detergent. We love Soak and Forever New.

3. Drop in your delicates and make sure they are completely submerged.

4. Soak for 15–20 minutes.

5. Rinse your bras in clean water (unless it’s Soak, which is rinse-free!).

6. Gently squeeze the fabric to remove excess water, but don’t wring or twist the fabric.

7. Lay flat to dry on a towel or hang to dry.

Click here to watch a step-by-step video on hand washing!

Machine Washing Delicates

Although we highly recommend you always hand wash your bras, we know that sometimes machine washing is the only option. So, if you must, here’s the best way to do it:

• Always use a lingerie bag to wash your delicates so items don’t get tangled up and stretched out during the wash.

• Be sure to fasten the clasps of your bra to ensure fabrics don’t get snagged while washing.

• Use delicate detergent like Soak and Forever New that are designed to be gentle on fabrics and won't break them down.

• Use the most delicate cycle on your washing machine (the hand-wash cycle is best).

• Again, only air dry your bras. Never, ever, EVER put them in the dryer—it will destroy them instantly.

Click here to watch a step-by-step video on machine washing!

*Extra Lingerie Care Tip*

Storage: For molded cups, NEVER fold the cups into each other. This will cause the cup to permanently wrinkle. For molded cups you should nest them together, unhooked and place inside of your drawer.

Ready to get to work? Start by shopping our favorite lingerie wash & bags here.