Quick Answer

To make your lingerie last longer, wash by hand or use a mesh bag on a delicate cycle, air-dry flat away from heat, and store pieces flat or hanging without folding straps. Avoid fabric softener, bleach, and the dryer — these break down elastic and lace quickly.

Why Lingerie Needs Special Care

Bras and knickers are made from delicate materials like microfibre, lace, and elastic that lose shape and stretch when exposed to harsh washing or heat. The lightweight fabrics that make them comfortable — such as the 4-way stretch microfibre in the Glowlights Hi Rise — are also more vulnerable to damage from agitation and high temperatures. A few simple changes to your routine can double the life of your favourite pieces.

How to Wash Bras and Knickers Without Damage

Hand washing is the safest method for all lingerie. Fill a basin with cool or lukewarm water and a small amount of gentle detergent. Submerge the garment, gently squeeze (never wring or scrub), and rinse thoroughly. If you prefer machine washing, place each piece inside a mesh lingerie bag, select a delicate or hand-wash cycle with cold water, and skip the spin cycle. Always fasten hooks before washing to prevent snagging. A common mistake is using fabric softener — it coats the fibres and reduces elasticity over time.

Drying and Storing Lingerie the Right Way

Never put bras or knickers in the dryer. Heat destroys elastic fibres, causing them to stretch out or lose their shape. Instead, lay each piece flat on a clean towel or drying rack, reshaping the cups and waistband gently. Avoid hanging wet bras by the straps — the weight of the water can stretch them out. For storage, fold bras flat or stack them in a drawer with cups nested. Knickers can be folded or rolled; avoid overstuffing drawers to keep lace and trims from getting crushed.

5-Step Lingerie Care Routine

  1. Check the Care Label: Every garment has specific washing instructions. Look for symbols indicating water temperature, bleach allowance, and drying method before you start. Common mistake: assuming all lingerie can be washed the same way. A quick label check prevents accidental damage.
  2. Sort by Colour and Fabric: Separate whites, lights, and darks to prevent colour bleeding. Also separate delicate lace from sturdier cotton or seamless pieces. Checkpoint: if a piece has metal hardware (hooks, rings), wash it separately or inside a mesh bag to avoid snagging softer fabrics.
  3. Wash Gently — Hand or Machine: Hand wash in cool water with a mild detergent. For machine washing, use a lingerie bag and a delicate cycle. Never use bleach or fabric softener. Common mistake: using regular detergent or fabric softener. These break down elastic and leave residue that irritates skin.
  4. Reshape and Air-Dry Flat: After washing, gently squeeze out excess water (don't twist). Lay the garment flat on a towel, reshaping cups and waistbands. Keep away from radiators and direct sunlight. Checkpoint: if you hang a wet bra by its straps, the elastic stretches permanently. Always dry flat.
  5. Store Without Stress: Fold bras flat or stack them with cups nested. Store knickers in a drawer without overcrowding. Avoid folding lace pieces sharply. Common mistake: stuffing bras into a drawer or hanging them on a hook. This distorts cup shape and stretches straps over time.

Products That Benefit From Proper Care