Quick answer
Hand wash your bralette in cool water with a gentle detergent, then lay it flat to dry. Avoid the washing machine and dryer to preserve the lace, straps, and elastic.
Why bralettes need special care
Bralettes are made from delicate fabrics like lace and power mesh that can snag, stretch, or lose their shape in a regular wash cycle. The Holly Bralette, for example, combines soft lace with a supportive mesh lining — both materials benefit from gentle handling. A little extra care keeps the straps from twisting and the elastic from wearing out too soon.
What about machine washing?
If you absolutely must use a machine, place the bralette in a mesh lingerie bag and select the delicate cycle with cold water. Even then, hand washing is safer and recommended for lace bralettes. The machine can still cause friction that dulls the fabric or loosens the stitching over time.
Step-by-step bralette care routine
- Step 1: Hand wash in cool water: Fill a basin with cool water and add a small amount of mild detergent (one made for delicates is ideal). Submerge the bralette and gently swirl it for 2–3 minutes. Do not scrub or wring the fabric. Hot water can damage elastic and shrink lace. Always use cool or lukewarm water.
- Step 2: Rinse thoroughly: Drain the soapy water and refill the basin with fresh cool water. Swish the bralette gently until no suds remain. Repeat if needed. Leftover detergent can irritate skin and stiffen the fabric over time.
- Step 3: Remove excess water without wringing: Lay the bralette flat on a clean, dry towel. Roll the towel up with the bralette inside and press gently to absorb moisture. Unroll and reshape the bralette. Twisting or wringing stretches the lace and breaks the elastic fibers.
- Step 4: Dry flat away from heat: Place the bralette on a drying rack or a fresh towel in a well-ventilated area, out of direct sunlight. Reshape the cups and straps while it is damp. Never hang it to dry by the straps. Hanging stretches the straps and band. A dryer or radiator will shrink or warp the lace.
- Step 5: Store flat or folded: Fold the bralette gently and place it in a drawer or on a shelf. Avoid hanging it by the straps for long periods. If you must hang it, use a padded hanger and drape it by the center gore. Storing bralettes flat prevents the elastic from losing its snap and keeps the lace from snagging.
Product spotlight
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Holly Bralette - Sangria: The Holly Bralette features soft-to-the-touch lace and buttery-soft yet supportive power mesh lining. This combination means the lace needs gentle washing to stay smooth, while the power mesh retains its shape best when dried flat away from heat.
Holly Bralette - Sangria