How Often Should You Wash Your Bra (And Other Lingerie Questions Answered)
When you work in the lingerie industry people ask you incredibly awkward questions about their underwear all of the time. It’s usually in public, just as you’re trying to pick up your packages or walk your dog or buy some milk or enjoy an appetizer at a party.
What I’ve also learned is that most people ask the same questions over and over again! Not all of us get a great education about lingerie and how to care for it, although most of us know that we are supposed to know something and somehow take care of our bras “properly”. If you find yourself in this group of lingerie wearing consumers you’re definitely not alone.
Today I’m going to answer some of the questions that I’m asked most frequently! There’s no shame in wanting more information, so feel free to leave any other burning questions you have in the comments below and I’ll try to answer them as well.
How often do you really need to wash your bra?
Everyone always asks this in the summer. Always. I also know that this isn’t as easy to plan for as we’d like. Handwashing can take a long time and everyone is busy. It’s hard to make time and have your favorite bras out of commission for a few days but I promise it is worthwhile.
The answer to this question is pretty individual. Most people need to wash their bras every other wear or so in the summer and less often in the colder months. If you’re sweating profusely into your favorite bra three or four days a week then you should definitely be washing it often. This is about more than just smell: Sweat breaks down elastics and will drastically shorten the lifespan of your bra over time.
Can I really not put my bra through the washer and dryer?
Everyone I know cheats and washes their bra in the washer. Even my own mother does it! I know it’s common and I’ve even done it in an emergency, but you really should avoid it if at all possible. If you have to go for it then at least stick your bra in a lingerie bag.
Whatever you do, do not put your bra in the dryer. Ever. Heat is the greatest enemy of elastic out there and it will destroy your bra fast. Don’t even be tempted by the air fluff cycle.
Related: Bra Care 101: How To Wash Bras
How do I know if my bra fits?
The best way to guarantee that your bra fits is to go to a reputable bra fitting boutique and have them put you in one! If you can’t do that though, try these basic rules:
- Scoop all of your breast tissue into the cups when you try it on
- Make sure the center part (the gore) is flat against your chest in between your breasts
- No tissue should be spilling out anywhere. If it is, the cups of your bra are too small.
- Your bra band should be tight but also comfortable enough to slip two fingers underneath it.
- Your bra band shouldn’t ride up when you move around. If it does, your band is too loose.
Are there any alternatives to fancy lingerie wash?
Yes – and it’s not Woolite! Woolite is for wool and not for lingerie. If you don’t want to spend the money for fancy lingerie wash or run out then baby shampoo is a decent alternative.
There are some great affordable lingerie washes out there and some brands that may be worth the splurge so make sure you check them out online. Many companies sell sample size versions of their lingerie wash so you can try it out cheaply – take advantage of it! You might find your new favorite.
Do those expensive period panty things really work?
This is a question that has only been popping up in my life recently, which speaks to the growing popularity of period panties as an alternative to solutions like pads and tampons. Like bra cleanliness question, the answer to this is really individual.
I am among the masses who have switched entirely to period panties and wish they’d been around my whole life. I have friends who tried the same brands and types who hated them. I think it mostly depends on how heavy your period is and how big your budget is. I find them to be a worthwhile splurge, but others don’t find them to be the perfect period solution.
Do you have any other burning lingerie questions? Leave them in the comments! Did you have one of your lingerie questions answered in this article? If so, make sure to share it with a friend!
Related: 5 Ways To Extend The Life Of Your Favorite Bra
We Highly Recommend
Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for a special occasion, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find bras that fit well and feel good, especially when you’re doing it on your own. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your bra size or you just don’t know where to go to find good bras, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.
Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings. Their expert bra fitters will take the pain and frustration out of bra shopping and do all the work for you. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best bras are hiding.
If you’ve struggled with finding bras in the right size, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.
Happy bra shopping!
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