Quick answer
The biggest lingerie care mistakes are machine washing on a normal cycle, tumble drying, and ignoring the care needs of specific materials. Hand wash in cool water or use a mesh bag on a delicate cycle, air dry flat or hanging, and store pieces flat or hanging to protect straps and hardware. Adjustable straps and hardware should be checked regularly so they stay functional.
Lingerie is an investment, and how you care for it determines how long it stays in rotation. Many pieces fail early not because of poor quality, but because of a few common care errors.
This article busts the most persistent lingerie care myths with clear verdicts. You'll learn what actually damages delicate fabrics, hardware and straps, and the simple habits that make lingerie last longer.
Myth: All lingerie can be machine washed on a normal cycle
Verdict: False. Normal cycles use agitation, heat and harsh detergents that break down delicate fibers and stretch elastics. Adjustable straps, O rings and hardware can snag or bend. Hand washing in cool water with a gentle detergent is safest, or use a mesh laundry bag on a delicate cycle if you must machine wash.
If a piece has adjustable straps or hardware, like the Voltage Wide Side Thong or Brief or the Flame G String, check the care label and treat it gently. The Flame G String has adjustable side straps attached with rose gold O rings, so a normal wash cycle could tangle or damage them.
Flame G String
- Hand wash in cool water with a gentle detergent.
- If machine washing, use a mesh bag and a delicate cycle.
- Fasten hooks and adjusters before washing to prevent snags.
Myth: Tumble drying is fine for lingerie
Verdict: False. Heat from a dryer weakens elastic and can shrink or warp delicate fabrics. Air drying is always better. Lay pieces flat on a towel or hang them to dry away from direct heat. For pieces with hardware, like the Venom Noir Thong with its matte black XL O rings, air drying prevents heat damage to the rings and adjusters.
If you must speed up drying, use a fan or a cool setting, but never high heat. Proper drying helps preserve the fit and finish of adjustable straps and soft fabrics.
- Air dry flat or hang to maintain shape.
- Avoid direct sunlight and radiators.
- Do not wring out delicate pieces; press gently between towels.
Myth: You can store lingerie however you like
Verdict: False. How you store lingerie affects its lifespan. Hanging heavy pieces by thin straps can stretch them out. Stacking items with hardware can cause scratches or snags. Store pieces flat in a drawer or hang lighter items, and keep hardware from rubbing against delicate fabrics.
For pieces with multiple straps and hardware, like the Candy Follow Playsuit with its chunky straps and extra large O rings, store flat or hang to avoid tangling. The Spite Underbust / Waist Harness, which can be worn on the waist or under the chest, should be stored so the halter straps and hardware don't get crushed.
- Store flat in a drawer or hang on padded hangers.
- Keep hardware from direct contact with lace or mesh.
- Use a lingerie bag or dust bag for extra protection.
Myth: You should wash lingerie after every wear
Verdict: Partly true. Items worn against the skin should be washed after each wear, but outer pieces like harnesses or playsuits may need less frequent washing. Over-washing can wear out fabrics and hardware faster. Spot clean when possible and air out pieces between wears.
For handmade-to-order items, follow the specific care guidance provided. Many pieces are made to order and may have unique care needs. When in doubt, hand wash gently and air dry.
- Wash items that contact skin after each wear.
- Spot clean harnesses and outerwear between washes.
- Air out pieces in a well-ventilated area before storing.
Verdicts on lingerie care myths
- Machine washing on a normal cycle: Normal cycles damage delicate fabrics and hardware. Verdict: False. Hand wash or use a mesh bag on delicate.
- Tumble drying: Heat weakens elastic and can warp fabrics. Verdict: False. Always air dry.
- Storing however you like: Improper storage stretches straps and scratches hardware. Verdict: False. Store flat or hang carefully.
- Washing after every wear: Over-washing wears out pieces faster. Verdict: Partly true. Wash skin-contact items, spot clean others.
Product care facts
- Voltage Wide Side Thong or Brief: Adjustable straps and super soft stretch fabric; handmade to order with up to seven days for dispatch. Adjustable straps need gentle handling to keep their fit; handmade pieces may have specific care instructions.
- Flame G String: Adjustable side straps attached with rose gold O rings; handmade to order with one week for dispatch. The O rings and straps can be damaged by harsh washing or heat, so hand wash and air dry.
- Venom Noir Thong: Made from soft organic bamboo cotton stretch jersey with matte black XL O rings and all black adjusters. Organic bamboo cotton is delicate; avoid heat and harsh chemicals to preserve softness and elasticity.
- Spite Underbust / Waist Harness: Multi-wear harness with halter style straps; choose from silver or rose gold hardware; handmade to order. Hardware can tangle or scratch; store carefully and spot clean to maintain finish.
By avoiding these common care mistakes, you can extend the life of your lingerie and keep it looking and feeling great. Always check the care label and treat handmade pieces with the gentle care they deserve.
