The Golden Rule
Never put your bras in the dryer. This is the single most important thing you can do to extend bra life. Heat destroys elastic fibers, warps underwire, and degrades foam cups. Always air dry.
Hand Washing (Recommended)
Fill a basin with cool to lukewarm water and add a small amount of gentle detergent (lingerie wash, baby shampoo, or mild liquid soap all work). Submerge your bras and let them soak for 15-30 minutes.
Gently agitate the fabric, paying attention to the band and underarm areas where sweat and oils accumulate. Rinse thoroughly with cool water until all soap is removed. Press out excess water gently — never wring or twist.
Machine Washing (When You Must)
Hook all clasps to prevent snagging. Place each bra in a mesh lingerie bag. Use cold water on the delicate/gentle cycle. Use a small amount of mild detergent. Never wash bras with heavy items like jeans or towels.
Remove bras from the machine immediately after the cycle ends to prevent wrinkles and mildew.
Drying
Reshape the cups with your hands while the bra is still damp. Lay flat on a clean towel, or hang by the center gore (between the cups) — never by the straps, as this stretches them.
Keep bras away from direct sunlight and heat sources. A well-ventilated area at room temperature is ideal.
How Often to Wash
After every 2-3 wears for everyday bras. After every wear for sports bras (sweat degrades elastic faster). After every wear in hot weather or if you tend to perspire heavily.
Washing too frequently can also wear out bras faster, so finding the right balance matters. If a bra doesn't smell and hasn't been worn during strenuous activity, it's fine to wear it again.
Storage Tips
Store molded-cup bras with cups nested inside each other, not folded in half. Folding deforms the cups over time. Soft bras and bralettes can be folded flat in a drawer.
Don't stuff bras into overpacked drawers. They need a little space to maintain their shape. Some people use drawer dividers or dedicated bra organizers.