Washing bras without destroying them – all the best tips

It’s a bit like finally admitting to that colleague you’ve known for six months that you actually can’t remember their name. The fact is: you still don’t know how to wash your bra. Don’t worry, nobody does. ‘How to wash bras’ has been keeping search engines busy for years now – you’re not alone. So, we’ve collected all the best tips on washing bras without destroying them, including all the answers to all your most burning questions.  

How often should I wash my bra? 

Most health professionals like dermatologists recommend two or three wears before washing your bras. If you’ve been particularly sweaty, maybe just one or two wears. And if you only wear your bra for a few hours each day, you can probably squeeze in a few extra cheeky wears. Bras are like little petri dishes, because thanks to all the dead skin cells, oil and sweat, they make the perfect home for bacteria and yeast to grow. If you don’t wash your bra regularly enough, they’ll start to smell, become stained, and the build-up of sweat and bacteria can cause rashes. Fun fact: washing bras regularly prevents nipple chafing. This is because sweat can get trapped and create more friction between skin and material.  

Why changing your bra everyday will help it last longer 

The best advice we read was to change your bra every day, even if you don’t wash it. Rotating your bras gives the elastic a rest, helping your bra to retain its shape and last longer. Good for you. Good for your boobies.  

How to wash bras  

The best way to wash your bra is by handwashing them. But don’t worry. It’s not too hard. And you know what, if you still can’t be bothered, there’s ways of washing bras in the machine that will help them last longer too. Here’s how:  

How to hand wash bras 

• Fill a tub or basin with cold or lukewarm water.  
• Add a very mild detergent free from bleach or alcohol. 
• Put the bras inside and leave to soak for twenty to thirty minutes.  
• Swish the bras occasionally.  
• Pour out the soapy water, then replace with cold water.  
• Leave to rinse for five minutes.  

How to wash bras in the washing machine  

• Fasten the strap before it goes in the machine so that it doesn’t get tangled or snag other items.  
• Washing bras inside a mesh laundry bag or ‘bra wash bag’ to ensure that it doesn’t get wrapped around other clothes or misshapen.  
• Use your washing machine’s most gentle cycle and choose the coldest setting to prevent bobbles and pilling and to preserve the bra’s elastic.  
• Dry your bra flat on a towel or hang out to dry (on a shower rail or drying rack). Avoid direct sunlight if you can. 
• Never fold your bra one cup inside of the other, this will change the shape of your bra.  
• Gently press out any excess water (never twist or wring). 
• Dry your bra flat on a towel or hang out to dry (on a shower rail or drying rack). Avoid direct sunlight if you can. 

Never fold your bra one cup inside of the other, this will change the shape of your bra. 

Can you put bras in the dryer? 

Nope. Well, you can, but the high heat of drying – not to mention the rough and tumble motion of the machine – can damage the delicate fabric and elastic of your bra. In short: use the dryer and your bra will deteriorate faster in general. You’re better off drying it naturally on a towel.  

Can you wash bras in vinegar? 

Yes and no. Yes, because the vinegar will kill mildew and other bacteria. But no, because it will probably leave your bra smelling a bit weird. Still, it’s nice to know there’s an alternative option for washing bras if they start to smell really, really funky. 

Do I need to wash different types of bras separately? 

Nope. As long as you hand wash bras or keep them in one of those mesh laundry bags for bras (when machine washing), you should be fine to throw them in together. So, if you’re wondering how to wash a sticky strapless bra or how to wash your padded bra – it’s the same rule for both.  

Should I use one of those mesh laundry bag things? 

Yes. When washing bras in the washing machine, you should use a bra wash bag or bra washing ball – perfect for your delicates. You can wash them with a regular load of clothes. But one thing you should definitely not do is throw your bra into the washing machine with heavy sheets or towels. This risks misshaping and creates more wear and tear in general.  

Other tips for washing bras or maintaining them? 

Never fold your bra one cup inside the other as it can permanently change the shape. Also, if you’re going on holiday, pack your bras with socks in the cups to help them to keep their shape. And don’t forget to rotate your bras at least every day to give the elastic chance to rest.  

Also read:
Wash Baby Clothes
Hand Wash
Washing Jeans