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How to Wash Your Lingerie Correctly
March 27, 2026
How to Wash Your Lingerie Correctly
Our suggestions for keeping your bras and panties so fresh and so clean
In an ideal world, there’d be no need to explain how to put your lingerie in the washing machine because you’d lovingly hand wash each and every piece—carefully hanging them to dry outside in the warm summer sun. Of course, we know this isn’t always realistic. Yes, by all means if you can hand wash your lingerie—do it! This will extend the life and support of your bras and panties many times over. But if you’re like many of us (short on time, short on patience), we have a few tips and tricks for cleaning your lingerie in the washing machine while keeping it in the best shape possible.
1.
Start with a Lingerie Bag
Just like your mother always told you—a lingerie bag is a must. It will help you avoid the moment when you open your washing machine and see total wardrobe destruction. This handy, zipped bag will keep other clothing in the machine from snagging your lingerie. It will also keep your bras from hooking onto your other clothing and ripping it apart. This wash bag [link] is a great place to start.
2.
Fold Your Bras
Before you place the bras in the lingerie bag, fold them in such a way as to maintain their shape better. We suggest fastening the band, folding the cups into one another, and then placing the straps inside the cups. Be sure to wash light and dark bras (and other clothing) separately as synthetic fabrics tend to pick up dye from the water more easily—otherwise, you might end up with a not-so-chic tie-dye bra collection. Opt for cool or warm water (never hot!) and mild soap.
3.
Carefully Remove
Take the lingerie bag out of the wash and delicately remove its contents. Under no circumstances should you wring out your lingerie and we recommend avoiding the dryer as this can permanently alter its shape. Instead, lay your bras and underwear flat or across a clothing line and let them naturally air dry.
Are you wearing the right bra size? Check out our online Bra Fit Calculator for easy DIY bra measurements.
*All prices shown on the blog are in US dollars.
